Bhakti and Aarti

In Jainism, bhakti (devotion) and aarti (ritual worship with light) are important aspects of religious practice, though they differ somewhat from similar practices in other Indian religions.

Bhakti (Devotion) in Jainism

• Jain bhakti centers on reverence and devotion to the Tirthankaras (spiritual victors who have conquered worldly passions and attained liberation) and other enlightened beings, such as Arihants and Siddhas.
• Bhakti in Jainism is not about seeking favors or miracles, but about expressing gratitude, respect, and a desire to follow the spiritual path shown by the Tirthankaras.
• It often involves recitation of prayers, singing of stavans (devotional songs), and meditating on the virtues of the enlightened beings.
• Jain bhakti encourages emulation of the Tirthankaras' qualities: compassion, non-violence (ahimsa), truthfulness, and renunciation.

Aarti in Jainism

• Aarti is a ritual performed in Jain temples or at home shrines, typically in the morning or evening.
• During aarti, a lamp with several wicks (usually soaked in ghee or oil) is lit and moved in a circular motion in front of the image of a Tirthankara, accompanied by the singing of aarti songs and ringing of bells.
• The light symbolizes the removal of ignorance and the illumination of knowledge.
• Common Jain aartis include "Arihant Aarti," "Jin Aarti," and "Mahavir Swami ki Aarti," each praising the virtues of the Tirthankaras and Siddhas.
• After the aarti, devotees may take the light's warmth and pass it over their eyes and forehead, as a sign of reverence.

Distinctive Features

• Unlike some other traditions, Jain aarti does not include offerings of food, flowers, or incense to the deity as a form of divine appeasement, since Tirthankaras are not gods who grant boons but perfected souls who are venerated for their spiritual achievements.
• The focus remains on self-purification, inspiration, and commitment to the path of liberation (moksha).

Summary

In summary, both bhakti and aarti in Jainism are expressions of deep respect and inspiration drawn from the lives and teachings of the enlightened ones, aiming to cultivate similar virtues and progress on the path to liberation.