In Jainism, the path to moksha (liberation) is achieved through the right faith (Samyak Darshan), right knowledge (Samyak Jnan), and right conduct (Samyak Charitra), rather than performing rituals or pooja alone. While pooja (ritual worship) is a respected practice in Jain tradition—often done to show reverence to the Tirthankaras and to inspire oneself towards spiritual goals—it is not considered a direct means to attain moksha.

Stories Emphasizing This Principle:

1. Mrigavati’s Story:

Queen Mrigavati, mother of the famous Jain king Samprati, was a devout follower and performed pooja and rituals regularly. However, Jain texts emphasize that it was her deep faith, discipline, and adherence to vows (vratas) that paved her spiritual progress, not just the pooja itself.

1. Chandana's Story (Chandanbala):

Chandanbala was a devoted Jain who served Lord Mahavira with utmost devotion. While she performed pooja and rituals, her liberation was attributed to her pure conduct, forgiveness, and spiritual discipline, demonstrating that inner qualities and right conduct are essential for moksha.

1. King Shrenik (Bimbisara):

King Shrenik was a great devotee of Lord Mahavira and performed many poojas. However, Mahavira explained to him that devotion alone, without the practice of non-violence, truth, and renunciation, cannot lead to liberation. Shrenik was told he would be liberated in a future life due to his faith and righteous conduct, not just ritual worship.

Jain Philosophy Reference:

• Jain scriptures like the Tattvartha Sutra state that liberation is achieved through the shedding of karmas by practicing non-violence (ahimsa), truthfulness (satya), celibacy (brahmacharya), non-attachment (aparigraha), and right knowledge—not by rituals alone.

Conclusion: In Jainism, pooja is a means to cultivate devotion, humility, and right intentions, which support the spiritual journey. However, no one attains moksha by pooja alone. It is the transformation of character, destruction of karmas, and realization of the soul’s true nature that leads to liberation.

If you’d like stories of exemplary Jains whose devotion and conduct led to moksha—as per Jain texts—I can share more such narratives.