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G The priest waves the light three times at the feet of the murti, then three times at the head, then three times from feet to head – in circular motions from right to left, while worshippers chant prayers. Then the lamp is waved over the worshippers as a reminder that the eternal light of God shines within each of us.
G Other offerings may also be made, such as fruit, sweets or cooked foods.
G After being blessed, these offerings were placed in a package for the worshipper to take away and eat. This is a way of sharing the blessing of the gods and goddesses.
Hindu priests
Priests are people who have studied the Hindu sacred books and learned how to conduct worship. They often go to special colleges to learn to be priests, although some people may be taught by their parents. Hindu priests can marry and have families.
In the past, only members of the highest caste, called Brahmans, were allowed to be priests, but this has started to change.
A large mandir may have full time priests, but the priests in smaller mandirs may have ‘regular’ jobs and only officiate part-time.
at home and in the mandir is that the mandir is considered to be the royal home of the gods and so everything is much more lavish.
Puja is usually followed by a ceremony called aaRti. We will learn about this on the following pages.
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