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.
Benefits of waving lit dhoop or lit incense-stick in front of the Deity
After waving the dhoop, incense-sticks of a specific fragrance are waved in front of the Deity, which attracts the respective Deity’s Principle to a greater extent.
Haldi, Kumkum, Gulal and Gandha
Haldi (Turmeric) being a tuber which grows below the surface of earth, the waves of Pruthvitattva (Absolute Earth Principle) in it are in far greater quantity than in stems growing above the surface of earth.
Cotton vastra and Janeu (Sacred thread)
The cotton vastra represents the Sushumnanadi of the Kundalini and the seven cotton beads in the vastra are associated with the seven Kundalini Chakras in the body of the individual.
Importance of Water of the seven Holy rivers in ritualistic worship
The seven rivers referred to, are the Holy rivers Ganga, Godavari, Narmada, Kaveri, Krushna, Brahmaputra and Yamuna. Water collected from these seven rivers is put in the ritualistic pot, which is used during ritualistic worship.
Offering patri (Specific leaves) and flowers to Deities
It is beneficial to offer the patri (Specific leaves offered during worship) of those flower plants which are favourite of the Deity. Patri is related to the colour particles, whereas the flowers are related to the fragrant particles.
Which Flowers is offered to which Deity ?
When flowers associated with a Deity are offered to that Deity, for example red flowers to Shri Ganapati, the benefit derived of the Principle of that Deity is greater.
Qualities to be learnt from the substances used in Puja (Ritualistic worship)
Read about the qualities to be learnt from the substances used in Puja (Ritualistic worship)
Importance of Rangoli and Panchagavya
Drawing a rangoli in a sattvik pattern around a wooden platform or altar before commencing any puja (Ritualistic worship) helps to form a protective sheath, of rapidly moving waves emanating from that pattern, around wooden platform or altar.