Answer

In Jain Dharma, Nav Ang Puja means worshipping the nine sacred parts of the Jina Pratima with devotion. It is usually performed after bathing and purifying the idol, using sandalwood paste, flowers, rice, incense, lamp, and other puja materials according to tradition.

The nine angs are generally worshipped in this order:

• 1. Charan – Feet
• 2. Jaanu – Knees
• 3. Haath – Hands
• 4. Kandha – Shoulders
• 5. Mastak – Head
• 6. Lalāt – Forehead
• 7. Kanth – Neck
• 8. Hriday – Heart/chest
• 9. Nābhi – Navel

How It Is Performed

• First, the devotee comes with a pure mind, clean body, and respectful attitude.
• The Jina Pratima is worshipped with great care and humility.
• Chandan or other prescribed puja substance is gently applied to each of the nine angs.
• At each ang, the devotee remembers the supreme qualities of Arihant Bhagwan.
• The worship is done without asking for worldly gains, but with the feeling of purification of one’s own soul.

Spiritual Meaning

Nav Ang Puja is not worship of a body in an ordinary sense. In Jain Dharma, the Jina Pratima represents the perfected state of the soul:

• Feet remind us to follow the path of liberation.
• Knees and hands inspire humility and right conduct.
• Shoulders remind us of spiritual strength.
• Head and forehead represent supreme knowledge and purity.
• Neck reminds us of pure speech.
• Heart inspires compassion, detachment, and equanimity.
• Navel reminds us of inner steadiness and self-control.

Important Note

The exact method, order, mantras, and materials may differ slightly between Śvetāmbara, Digambara, Sthānakavāsī/Derāvāsī traditions and local temple customs. It is best to learn the exact vidhi from your temple’s pujari, guru, or elder, especially for the correct mantras and sequence.

Takeaway

Nav Ang Puja is performed with devotion, purity, and humility. Its true purpose is to awaken reverence for the qualities of Arihant Bhagwan and to inspire the devotee to walk on the path of samyak darshan, samyak jnan, and samyak charitra.