12 sathiya Pooja
In Jainism, the term "Sathiya" refers to the auspicious symbol Swastika (Svastika), and "12 Sathiya Pooja" (बारह स्वस्तिक पूजा) is a revered ritual that involves worshipping the Swastika in twelve distinct ways, representing key concepts of Jain philosophy.
Meaning of 12 Sathiya (Swastikas):
The 12 Swastikas symbolize the twelve vows (Vratas) taken by Jain lay followers (Shravaks), or sometimes, they represent the twelve Bhavnas (reflections), or the twelve stages of spiritual development (Gunasthana). Most commonly, in pooja context, they refer to the twelve Vratas.
The Twelve Vratas (Vows) are:
1. 5 Anuvratas (Minor Vows)
- Ahimsa Anuvrat (Non-violence)
- Satya Anuvrat (Truthfulness)
- Achaurya Anuvrat (Non-stealing)
- Brahmacharya Anuvrat (Chastity)
- Aparigraha Anuvrat (Non-possessiveness)
2. 3 Gunavratas (Supplementary Vows)
- Digvrat (Limiting movement in certain directions)
- Bhogopabhog Pariman (Limiting consumption)
- Anartha Danda Virman (Avoiding purposeless sins)
3. 4 Shiksha Vratas (Disciplinary Vows)
- Samayik (Equanimity meditation)
- Desavakasik (Limiting activities to a particular place and time)
- Paushadh (Living like a monk for a day)
- Atithi Samvibhag (Charity to ascetics)
12 Sathiya Pooja Ritual:
During this pooja, a Swastika is drawn (usually with rice, sandalwood paste, or vermillion) in front of the idol or on a wooden plank. Each arm of the Swastika is worshipped with devotion, reciting the importance of each vow or aspect it represents, and offering rice, flowers, or other auspicious items.
Significance:
- The Swastika is a symbol of auspiciousness, progress, and the four destinies (gati): heavenly, human, animal, and hellish.
- The 12 Sathiya Pooja helps devotees reflect on the core ethical practices, reinforces the path of right conduct (Samyak Charitra), and strengthens the resolve to live a virtuous life.
Typical Prayer/Chant:
A common prayer is to recite the names or descriptions of each vow and seek blessings to follow them earnestly.
Summary Table:
| Sathiya No. | Symbolizes | Associated Vow/Concept |
|-------------|----------------|-----------------------------------|
| 1 - 5 | Swastika Arms | 5 Anuvratas |
| 6 - 8 | Swastika Arms | 3 Gunavratas |
| 9 - 12 | Swastika Arms | 4 Shiksha Vratas |
In Practice:
This pooja is often performed during special Jain festivals, on holy days, or before major rituals, especially by householders seeking to reinforce their spiritual vows.
If you need the exact pooja steps, mantras, or further details, please let me know!