Worshipping Brahman, the ultimate reality and supreme cosmic power in Hinduism, is more of an inward spiritual practice than a ritualistic one. However, Hindu worship practices (puja) focus on meditating on Brahman through symbolic deities, following a disciplined approach to cleanliness, and using eco-friendly traditional puja products. Here’s a detailed guide on how to worship Brahman in a way that aligns with traditional values, emphasizing simplicity and eco-conscious practices.
1. Preparation for Worship: Cleanliness, Time, and Dress Code
- Cleanliness: Clean your puja space thoroughly before beginning the worship. It is essential to take a bath and wear clean clothes before starting the puja, symbolizing the purification of both body and mind.
- Time: The best time to worship is during Brahma Muhurta, which is about 1.5 hours before sunrise, or during early morning hours (5:00 AM to 7:00 AM) when the mind is calm and the atmosphere is pure.
- Dress Code: Wear light, simple, and clean clothes, preferably in light colors like white, yellow, or light blue. These colors are considered auspicious and represent purity and tranquility. Avoid black or dark colors as they are often associated with negativity.
2. Puja Items Required (Eco-Friendly and Traditional)
Using eco-friendly and traditional puja products helps in preserving the environment and maintaining the sanctity of the worship. Here are the essential items:
- Brass or copper puja thali (plate) for arranging the items.
- Oil lamps (diyas) made of clay and fueled by sesame or ghee.
- Incense sticks made of natural herbs and flowers.
- Flowers such as marigold, jasmine, and lotus. Ensure they are pesticide-free.
- Fruits and dry fruits for offering, preferably organic.
- Betel leaves and betel nuts.
- Sandalwood paste or powder (Chandan).
- Kumkum (vermilion), turmeric, and rice grains.
- Panchamrit (a mixture of milk, curd, honey, ghee, and sugar).
- Tulsi leaves (sacred basil).
- Eco-friendly idol or picture of a preferred deity representing Brahman (e.g., Vishnu, Shiva, or Goddess).
- Camphor (kapoor) for aarti (offering light).
- Kalash (a pot filled with water with a coconut on top, draped in mango leaves).
- Cloth pieces for decoration (preferably cotton or jute).
3. Simple Steps of Puja
Preparation of the Altar: Place a clean cloth on the altar and arrange all puja items neatly. Light the diya and incense sticks to purify the environment.
Dhyana (Meditation): Sit in a comfortable position, close your eyes, and meditate on Brahman. Visualize the divine light in your heart, radiating peace and energy.
Invocation: Chant “Om” three times to invoke positive vibrations and begin the puja.
Offering Flowers and Fruits: Offer flowers and fruits symbolically at the feet of the deity. While offering, chant “Om Tat Sat,” acknowledging the supreme truth.
Abhishekam (Offering Panchamrit): Gently pour the panchamrit over the deity or idol, symbolizing purification and surrender. Clean the idol afterward with clean water.
Application of Sandalwood Paste and Kumkum: Apply a small dot of sandalwood paste and kumkum on the deity as a mark of respect and adoration.
Aarti (Offering Light): Light camphor and wave it in a circular motion in front of the deity. This symbolizes the removal of darkness and ignorance.
Mantra Chanting and Prayers: Chant mantras such as “Om Namah Shivaya,” “Om Namo Narayanaya,” or “Gayatri Mantra.” You can also recite the Vishnu Sahasranama, Shiva Chalisa, or simple prayers like the “Asato Ma Sad Gamaya” mantra.
Offering Prasad: Place the prasad (offering) like fruits, sweets, or other prepared items in front of the deity.
Concluding the Puja: Conclude the puja by offering water (achamana) and doing pranam (bowing) to the deity. Thank Brahman for the blessings and seek guidance.
4. Prasad to be Prepared
- Sweets like halwa, kheer, or any traditional sweet made with organic ingredients.
- Fruits such as bananas, apples, and grapes, offered as prasad.
- Panchamrit (a mix of milk, honey, ghee, sugar, and curd) can also be offered.
5. Mantras and Prayers
Gayatri Mantra:
“Om Bhur Bhuvaḥ Swaḥ,
Tat-savitur Vareñyaṃ,
Bhargo Devasya Dhīmahi,
Dhiyo Yonaḥ Prachodayāt.”Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra:
“Om Tryambakam Yajamahe Sugandhim Pushtivardhanam,
Urvarukamiva Bandhanan Mrityor Mukshiya Maamritat.”Shanti Mantra (Peace Mantra):
“Om Shanti Shanti Shantiḥ.”
6. How to Conclude the Puja
- Offer water to the deity (achamana).
- Bow down and offer your gratitude.
- Distribute the prasad among family members and visitors.
7. Importance and Benefits of Worship
- Spiritual Upliftment: Worshipping Brahman helps connect with the higher self, leading to self-realization and spiritual growth.
- Inner Peace: Regular worship calms the mind, removes negativity, and brings a sense of peace and contentment.
- Good Health and Prosperity: The vibrations created during mantras and prayers bring harmony, aiding in good health and overall prosperity.
8. What to Do with the Puja Leftover Items
- Flowers and Leaves: Instead of discarding them, compost them in your garden or place them near plants.
- Puja Water (from Kalash): Sprinkle it around your home or pour it into the plants.
- Oil from Diyas: Can be reused if not fully consumed; otherwise, pour into plants.
- Used Incense Ash: It can be added to the soil as a mild fertilizer.
Using eco-friendly and traditional puja products not only honors the traditions but also ensures that the environment remains undisturbed. By following these simple steps, you can effectively worship Brahman, enhancing your spiritual journey while staying connected to nature.