Concept of Divinity in Jainism

Author(s): P Ajay Kothari
Publisher: Prakrit Bharti Academy

Page 45

Trinity related Divine Beings:
Saraswati, Goddess of knowledge is worshipped by every person who lusts for knowledge. Hindus begins their writing work with the prayer of Saraswati who is the daughter of Brahma, as he happens to be the creator God, and also she is considered as the consort of Brahma. Lakshmi, the consort of Vishnu symbolises wealth, is worshipped by every one to have prosperity. It is believed that one will be prosperous if he does Lakshmi Pooja on Kartika vad amavasya (15th day of krishna or the dark fortnight of the month of Kartika). Parvati the consort of Shiva is considered as shakti who gives powers to the worshiper. Goddesses Durga and Kali are also worshipped. Rev. W.Ward attributes ten forms of Durga.87 Edward Moore observes “Saraswati is a shakti of Brahma, Lakshmi of Vishnu and Parvati of Shiva; hence those, of whatever sect, who worship exclusively the female power are called Shaktas. 88
Lord Ganesha is a very celebrated and auspicious God.89 Every worship or puja shall begin with prayer to Ganesha (mangal god). Ganesha, son of Shiva, is believed to ward off all the hindrances in all new ventures. Besides, Ganesha, Kartikeya (Murgan) the brother of Ganesha is also adorned for prosperity. Other Divine Beings
Various female deities namely Uma, Ambika, Karumari Amman, Vaishnavmata, Sheetalamata etc. are very much worshipped for prosperity and for the relief from disease etc.
Among planets, Ravi (the sun); Soma (the moon); Mangala (Mars); Budh (Mercury); Brihaspati (Jupiter); Shukra (Venus); Shani (Saturn); Rahu and Ketu are worshipped so that hindrances are avoided and desires are fulfilled.
Hindus have sacred faith in myths and symbols of divinities. The snakes are worshipped to obtain preservation from snake bites. We find that on Naga Panchami milk is offered to snakes who bring prosperity and remove sarpadoshas. Cow is
HE CONCEPT OF DIVINITY IN AINISM