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Astotari pooja kriya
In Jainism, "Astottari Pooja" (also spelled as "Ashtottari Pooja") refers to a devotional ritual that involves offering worship with 108 (ashta-ottara) names or attributes of a Tirthankara, usually Lord Mahavira or Lord Parshvanatha, or sometimes other deities revered in Jain tradition.
Astottari Pooja Kriya (Procedure):
- Preparation:
- Cleanse yourself with a bath and wear clean clothes. - Prepare the puja area with an idol or image of the Tirthankara or deity. - Arrange puja items such as rice, flowers, sandalwood paste, akshat (uncooked rice mixed with turmeric), fruits, and incense.
- Prayers and Invocation:
- Begin with the recitation of the Namokar Mantra. - Offer salutation to Panch Parmeshthi (Arihant, Siddha, Acharya, Upadhyaya, Sadhu).
- Sankalp (Resolution):
- Make a mental resolve to perform the Astottari Pooja sincerely for spiritual upliftment.
- Recitation of 108 Names:
- Recite the 108 names (Astottara Shata Namavali) of the chosen Tirthankara or deity. - With each name, offer akshat (rice), a flower, or sandalwood paste at the feet of the idol or image.
- Offerings:
- After each name, you may also offer light (deep), incense (dhup), fruit, or sweets as per tradition. - Maintain focus and devotion during each offering.
- Puja Aarti:
- Conclude the pooja by performing aarti with a lamp and singing devotional hymns (stavan or stuti).
- Prayers and Bhavnas:
- End with prayers for forgiveness (Kshamapana) and for the welfare of all living beings (Sarva Mangal).
- Distribution of Prasad:
- Distribute the prasad (sanctified offerings) among the family and devotees.
Common Astottari Namavali:
- For Lord Mahavira: “Shri Mahavir Ashtottara Shat Namavali”
- For Lord Parshvanath: “Shri Parshvanath Ashtottara Shat Namavali”
Purpose: Performing Astottari Pooja is an act of devotion and gratitude, meant to cultivate virtues, seek inspiration from the Tirthankaras, and progress spiritually by remembering their qualities.
Note: Texts and specific procedures may vary by Jain sect (Svetambara/Digambara) and local customs. You may refer to a Jain puja book or consult a knowledgeable Jain monk or scholar for the exact 108 names and detailed steps as practiced in your tradition.
