Mulnayak & near by murti ladies can do angluchhnA
In Jainism, particularly in the Shwetambar tradition, the Mulnayak refers to the principal deity (main idol) in a Jain temple. Angluchhna (also spelled Anjalichhanna or Angarachanā) is the ritual act of gently wiping or touching the idol with a cloth as a form of reverence and purification.
Regarding whether ladies can perform Angluchhna on the Mulnayak and nearby murtis:
- Traditionally, in many Jain temples, there are certain restrictions on who can perform Angluchhna on the Mulnayak idol. In most places, only men who have taken a prescribed vow of purity (such as wearing a muhapatti and observing specific rituals of cleanliness) are allowed to do Angluchhna on the Mulnayak.
- Women are generally not permitted to perform Angluchhna on the Mulnayak, especially if they are of menstruating age, due to traditional notions of ritual purity in the temple context. This is a customary practice and may differ slightly based on sect (Shwetambar, Digambar), temple tradition, and local customs.
- For nearby murtis (other idols besides the Mulnayak), the rules may be slightly more relaxed, and in some temples, women may be allowed to perform Angluchhna on these idols, but not on the Mulnayak itself.
- Digambar tradition is generally more restrictive, and touching the idols (especially by laypersons and ladies) is usually not permitted at all.
Summary:
- Mulnayak Angluchhna: Generally, ladies are not allowed.
- Nearby Murti Angluchhna: Sometimes permitted, depending on local/customary rules, but often with restrictions.
Important: These rules are based on tradition and custom, not on core scriptural injunctions, and may vary by temple. It is always best to check with the specific temple authorities for their guidelines.
References:
- "Jain Puja Vidhi" (श्री जैन पूजा विधि)
- "Jainism: The World of Conquerors" by Natubhai Shah
- Local temple customs and guidelines
If you need more details about a specific temple or sect, please specify!