Shodashopachar puja – Means of abiding Dharma in a ritualistic and bhav enriched manner
Puja of Deities is an easy way of abiding by achars (Conducts) set by Dharma to facilitate regular sadhana (Spiritual practice) of a worshiper.
What are the benefits obtained from Puja preparations?
Preparation for a puja is truly the foundation for the ritual of puja. It not only purifies the worshipper, but also equips him to imbibe Chaitanya (Divine consciousness) that is emitting from the puja; hence, the necessity of preparations.
Importance of drawing Rangoli as a part of Puja preparations
When drawing the rangoli for a puja, the pattern should, as far as possible, be such that it attracts the Principle of the chief Deity of worship.
Sounding of a conch at the commencement of a puja
Sounding of a conch at the commencement of a puja and before an Arti helps in reducing the obstacles caused by the negative vibrations in the flow of the sattvik (Sattva-predominant) waves of Deities.
Importance of removing nirmalya from an Idol or a picture of a Deity with spiritual emotion
While worshiping a Deity, the Deity’s Principle is created in the flowers as per the intensity of bhav (Spiritual emotion) of the worshiper.
Why are kalash, conch, bell and lamp worshipped before puja ?
The puja implements are at the forefront in attracting Pancha-tattva (Five Cosmic Principles) from the universe and appealing to the Deity Principle in the Idol.
Importance of applying tilak or bhasma by the pujak while performing Puja
A unique feature of Sanatan Hindu Dharma is the deep thinking behind acquisition of Chaitanya (Divine consciousness) through every action in human life.
Clothes to be worn by men and women while performing Puja
A pujak (Worshipper) does individual preparation of purification through the medium of external coverings (of the body) such as the attire.
Why should we perform Puja immediately after a bath?
The increased sattvikta as a result of the bath slowly reduces due to the constant attack of Raja-Tama in the environment.
Individual preparation by a worshipper before performing Puja
A unique feature of Sanatan Hindu Dharma is the deep thinking behind acquisition of Chaitanya (Divine consciousness) through every action in human life.
