Astotari pooja kriya list
In Jainism, "Astottari Pooja" (also spelled "Ashtottari Pooja") refers to a devotional ritual in which 108 (ashta = 8, uttari = above; meaning 100 + 8 = 108) auspicious names or attributes of a Tirthankara—most commonly Lord Mahavira or Lord Parshvanath—are recited and worshipped. This pooja is performed with great devotion, usually in temples or during special occasions.
Typical Steps (Kriya) of Astottari Pooja:
- Purification (Aachaman/Atma-shuddhi):
The devotee purifies themselves physically and mentally before beginning the pooja.
- Prarthana (Prayer):
Offer a prayer to invoke the blessings of the Tirthankara.
- Sankalp (Resolution):
State your intention (sankalp) for performing the Astottari pooja.
- Dhyana (Meditation):
Meditate upon the image or idol of the Tirthankara.
- Avahan (Invocation):
Invite the presence of the Tirthankara spiritually.
- Panchamrit Abhishek:
Bathe the idol with five nectars—milk, curd, ghee, honey, and sugar. (This step may vary.)
- Snatra Puja or Jal Abhishek:
Perform the ritualistic bathing with pure water.
- Astottari Archana:
Recite the 108 names or attributes of the Tirthankara, offering rice grains, flowers, or akshat (unbroken rice) with each name.
- Pushpa Archana:
Offer flowers along with the recitation of names.
- Naivedya:
Offer fruits or sweets as an offering.
- Aarti:
Perform aarti with a lamp, singing hymns (stavan or stuti).
- Pradakshina:
Circumambulate the idol or image.
- Mantra Jaap:
Recite the Namokar Mantra or other Jain mantras.
- Kshama Yachna (Seeking Forgiveness):
Ask for forgiveness for any mistakes committed during the pooja.
- Prasad Vitaran:
Distribute the offered prasad among devotees.
Note: The actual process may vary based on sect (Svetambara or Digambara), temple traditions, or local customs. The central aspect is always the recitation of the 108 auspicious names, each accompanied by a devotional offering.
If you want the complete list of 108 names (Astottari), please specify the Tirthankara (such as Lord Mahavira or Lord Parshvanath), and I can provide that as well.