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W IS FOR WORSHIP
W is for Worship
Worship means to Pray
The respectful love shown to an idol, deity or sacred object is called worship. Prayers and ceremonies express this love. Jains show their ardent devotion to Arihanta (Tirthankar or Jina) and Siddha Bhagawäns* who have freed themselves from the cycle of birth and death. We worship them to remind ourselves that they are liberated souls and that we want to be like them. Worshiping also helps to uplift our soul and realize that it can be free from attachment and aversion. We can also be liberated through the practice of the principles of Jainism: Non-violence (Ahimsä), Truth (Satya), Non-stealing (Achaurya), Celibacy (Brahmacharya) and Non-possessiveness (Aparigraha). Worshiping is done through prayers, ceremonies and meditation. Worshiping can be done in a temple, an Upäshray, at a Jain center, or even at home. We should worship with our heart and mind and not just for show.
Note : W is also for Wisdom Look for *Siddha under S
JAIN ALPHABET BOOK
71
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