Jain Heritage and Beyond

Author(s): Shailesh Shah
Publisher: Oshwal Associations of The UK

Page 62

Anjanshalaka
Applying holy collyrium to the eyes of a new image
Only the event of Kaivalyagnan is called anjanshalaka and it is arranged to be carried out at an auspicious and sacred period usually at midnight.
The name anjan means 'collyrium', shalaka means 'small stick' is given to the
decorating the eyes of new images with collyrium made of many special substances. The paste is applied to the eyes with a gold stick. This ceremony is performed prior to the installation of the new images in the temple.
The smearing of collyrium to the eyes of the image with a gold stick is done by the Acharya or by the Anuyogacharya, the one next to him in hierarchial rank. This ceremony is symbolic of the energy being infused in the statue. From then on the statue comes to acquire the vibrant positive energy which it emanates to the worshippers and devotees.
Pratishtha
Installation of the image of the Lord
Pratishtha is the name given to the ceremony of installing the image of the Lord in a newly built or a renovalted Jain temple. At an auspicious time, on an auspicious day the mage of the Lord is installed by a householder who offers the highest amount of money. This amount is later used in the temple work and structure. On this occasion many kinds of worship are offered to the gods and goddesses, to the sacred powers and divine forces along with singing of hymns and prayers. The installing of the image is symbolic of installing the presence of the Lord within the heart.