Monday, September 23, 2013

Where and how do the Hindus worship?

Hindus mainly worship in a place called Mandir (temple). They may also worship at home, near river banks, Ashrams and any other place that is clean and fit to worship God. Hinduism doesn't restrict people to worship God in a single place.
Hindu worship mainly involves these sixteen procedures:
  1. Avahana ("invocation"). The deity is invited to the ceremony.
  2. Asana. The deity is offered a seat.
  3. Svagata ("greeting"). The deity is asked if the journey has gone well.
  4. Padya. The deity's feet are symbolically washed.
  5. Arghya. Water is offered so the deity may wash face and teeth.
  6. Acamanıya. Water is offered for sipping.
  7. Madhuparka. The deity is offered a water-and-honey drink.
  8. Snana or abhisekha. Water is offered for symbolic bathing.
  9. Anulepana or gandha. Perfumes and ointments are applied to the image.
  10. Vastra ("clothing"). Here a cloth may be wrapped around the image and ornaments affixed to it.
  11. Puspa. Flowers are offered before the image, or garlands draped around its neck.
  12. Dhupa. Incense is burned before the image.
  13. Dıpa or arati. A burning lamp is waved in front of the image.
  14. Naivedya . Foods such as cooked rice, fruit, clarified butter, sugar, and betel leaf are offered.
  15. Namaskara or pranama. The worshiper and family bow or prostrate themselves before the image to offer homage.
  16. Visarjana or udvasana. The deity is informed that the worship is complete.

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