________________
viii
Essential Items For Pratikraman
Sthapanacharyaji
Sämäyika and Pratikraman rituals are to be performed in the presence of an ascetic. However, in his/her absence, one symbolizes the presence of the ascetic by keeping a religious scripture in front on a table or stand (Sthapanacharyaji) and placing a prayer beads (Navakärväli) over the scripture. Some sects perform the Pratikraman ritual facing the Northeast direction as this symbolizes the presence of the living Tirthankar Simandhar-swami of Mahavideha land (Kshetra).
Muhapatti
The Muhapatti (handkerchief) is used to cover the mouth or keep it in front of mouth so that to minimize violence towards invisible bacteria and insects in the air.
The four corners of the Muhapatti represent right faith, right knowledge, right conduct, and self-control. It is folded in such a way that eight layers of material are used to protect invisible bacteria. Katasanu
Jain literature indicates that one should sit on a woolen cloth and keep a woolen broom (Charavalo) during the ritual for the protection of crawling bugs and insects. Charavalo
It is a woolen broom (Charavalo) used during the ritual for the protection of crawling bugs and insects during rainy season and other time.