Articles — Rituals

The word "Yantra" means an "instrument" or "machine" or "talisman" depending upon the context. Yantra is a mystical diagram used in the Indian religions and philosophy for worship. The Yantra is the graphic, mathematics and magic representation of the divine one. Yantra actually implies instrument, Yantra benefits include attraction of good luck, fortune, prosperity, success , protection and good health to the user. Likewise the images of gods in the temples, yantras are revered and worshiped as symbols of divine powers. The Devi Bhagavat(3.26.21) states - Archabhave Tatha Yantram; meaning - a yantra symbolizes a divine power. Similar meanings are indicated in Naradiya Purana, Gautamiya Tantra, Yogini Tantra, and several other Vedic...

Raksha sutra is an auspicious hindu thread also known as moli or Kalawa. The sacred thread that is tied on our hands prior to the start of puja is called a Raksha Sutra. Raksha means protection, and Sutra means sacred thread. During a Pooja the Pandit will tie the Raksha Sutra on your hand while he chants the sacred mantra. The purpose of the Sutra is to protect us from harm, evil spirits, bad habits, and to keep our minds focus. With the tying of the Raksha Sutra on our hands we are asking Bhagwan to bless us so that only...

Hinduism and many other faiths across the world recommend the use of lamps and light in prayers. The light symbolizes the absence of darkness, grief and sorrows. The Oil Lamp, Diya, Deepa or Deepam is lit to bow down to knowledge and remove darkness from our homes. It is customary to light a lamp before starting any auspicious event or ceremony and is a constant fixture in the "Pooja" or holy room in every home in India. By lighting lamps, the glow of the almighty is said to spread all over one's home and is an invitation to the gods...