Jain Spirit 2002 10 No 12

Author(s): Jain Spirit UK
Publisher: UK Young Jains

Page 24

FEATURES
Avoid Life's Traffic Jams
Young worshipper wearing muhpatti and anointing the images with saffron paste
However, the pooja works at a deeper level. It works inside the body, making a mark on the soul. It aims to elevate the inner consciousness so that it is better able to understand the challenges of everyday living and deal with the situations as they arise. So when a Jain returns home from the temple, he has taken an inner bath that will invigorate his daily activities. There is a good chance that the qualities of the temple--creativity, simplicity and peace will now enter into his relationships and actions. The worshipper may now inspire others by his own conduct and character. The temple has entered his soul, and he is now taking it to the people.
Life presents us with many problems on a daily basis. There are many books and gurus who give answers to these problems. However, ultimately the responsibility of dealing with them lies within our own self. I believe that a sincere pooja can lift us and strengthen our resolve to face life sincerely and live peacefully and harmoniously. If we begin work with worship, there is a good chance that our work itself becomes an act of worship, where the values of love, tolerance and respect are paramount. If only the whole world would start their day with sincere and meaningful worship... 2
Children praying and experiencing the peace inside the temple
Atul K Shah wrote this article for the 'Times of India' Speaking Tree column dated 9 April 2002. He is Executive Editor of Jain Spirit.
Dr. John Cort's latest book
Jains In The World", Oxford University Press 2001, describes and explains temple rituals very well.
Conducting a dhoop-pooja
The flower-seller outside the temple
22
Jain Spirit . September - November 2002
in Education International 2010_03