Nav Aang Puja is a significant Jain ritual performed in a Derasar (Jain temple) to honor the nine symbolic aspects (Aangs) of the Tirthankara or the Jin Pratima. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to perform Nav Aang Puja according to Jain traditions:

Preparation:

1. Purity: Take a bath and wear clean, simple clothes (traditionally white for purity).
2. Samayik: Perform Samayik or a moment of silence/meditation to calm the mind.
3. Puja Samagri: Prepare the required puja items such as rice, sandalwood paste, saffron, flowers, akshat (uncooked rice), chandan (sandalwood), and other traditional offerings.
4. Respect: Approach the Jin Pratima (idol) with devotion and humility.

The Nine Aangs (Nav Aang):

The Nav Aang Puja involves offering and worshipping the following nine aspects:

1. Jinshasan (The Throne of the Jina)
2. Jin Charan (The Feet of the Jina)
3. Ashtaprakari (The Eight Offerings)
4. Prabhamandal (Aura/halo)
5. Devguru (Devas and Gurus)
6. Ashthaprakari (Again, eight auspicious substances)
7. Dhvaj (The Flag)
8. Kalash (The Sacred Pot)
9. Phal (Fruits)

Puja Procedure:

1. Start with Prayers: Begin with the Navkar Mantra or any Jain Mangalacharan.
2. Offerings: For each Aang, recite the respective puja verse (stavan or sutra) and offer the corresponding item at the designated place on the Jin Pratima or the symbolic representation (like a diagram or yantra).
3. Sequence: Traditionally, each Aang is worshipped in order by offering rice, flowers, or chandan while reciting specific shlokas or prayers associated with that Aang.
4. Contemplation: While performing each puja, reflect on the virtues and teachings associated with each aspect (for example, the feet represent humility, the throne represents the seat of enlightenment, etc.).
5. Aarti: After all nine Aangs are worshipped, perform the Aarti (waving of lamp) to the Jina.
6. Pradakshina: Circumambulate the idol three times in a clockwise direction as a mark of respect.
7. Prarthana: End with a prayer asking for forgiveness (Kshamapana) and for spiritual upliftment.

Important Notes:

• Silence & Devotion: Maintain silence and utmost respect throughout the puja.
• Non-violence: Ensure that no harm is caused to any living being during the puja.
• Cleanliness: All puja items should be pure and unused for any non-religious purpose.

Common Nav Aang Puja Shlokas:

You may use a printed booklet or refer to your local Derasar for the specific Nav Aang Puja shlokas, as they may vary by tradition (Shwetambar or Digambar).

If you are new to this puja, it is best to consult the temple pujari or a knowledgeable elder for guidance.

Conclusion:

Nav Aang Puja is a beautiful way to deepen your devotion and understand Jain values. Performing it with the right intentions and procedures brings inner peace and spiritual merit according to Jain beliefs.

Micchami Dukkadam! (May all my faults be forgiven)