In Jainism, flower puja (offering of flowers) is part of the traditional rituals performed to express reverence and devotion toward the Tirthankaras (spiritual teachers). While Jain philosophy emphasizes internal worship—such as right faith, right knowledge, and right conduct—external rituals like flower puja have symbolic meanings and benefits:

1. Symbol of Purity: Flowers represent purity and non-violence (ahimsa). Offering flowers reminds devotees to cultivate pure thoughts, words, and actions in their lives.

1. Detachment: Flowers are beautiful but impermanent. Their offering symbolizes the impermanence of worldly pleasures and encourages detachment (vairagya) from material desires.

1. Expression of Devotion: Performing flower puja is an act of bhakti (devotion) and gratitude towards the Tirthankaras, helping devotees develop humility and a sense of surrender.

1. Cultivation of Virtues: The act of offering pure and fresh flowers inspires the practitioner to nurture virtues like compassion, forgiveness, and self-control.

1. Reminder of Samyak Darshan: The ritual is a means to focus the mind on the qualities of the Arihants and Siddhas, fostering right perception (samyak darshan).

It is important to note that Jain scriptures, especially for Shwetambar and Digambar traditions, often stress that such external rituals are secondary to internal spiritual progress. The ultimate benefit lies in purifying one's inner self and advancing on the path of liberation (moksha).

References:

• Jain Agamas and commentaries (e.g., Uttaradhyayana Sutra, Pravachansar)
• "Jainism: The World of Conquerors" by Natubhai Shah
• "The Jains" by Paul Dundas