Snatrapooja

This document is a Jain religious text titled "Snatrapooja" (स्नात्रपूजा), authored by Acharya Shri Buddhisagar Surishwarji Maharaj. It was published by Shri Adhyatma Gyan Prasarak Mandal. The text describes the rituals and devotional practices associated with the Snatra ceremony in Jainism, which is a ritualistic bathing of the idols of the Tirthankaras.

Here's a breakdown of the key aspects:

• Author: Acharya Shri Buddhisagar Surishwarji Maharaj, a respected Jain Acharya known for his spiritual depth and prolific writing.
• Publisher: Shri Adhyatma Gyan Prasarak Mandal, an organization dedicated to spreading Jain spiritual knowledge.
• Title: Snatrapooja (स्नात्रपूजा) - meaning the worship or ritual of Snatra (ritualistic bathing).
• Purpose: The book provides a detailed guide to performing the Snatra ceremony, particularly dedicated to Lord Mahavir, the 24th Tirthankara. The preface highlights the significance of the ceremony in invoking peace, removing suffering, and fostering devotion.
• Content:
  • Introduction (Page 4-5): The preface emphasizes the importance of the Snatra ceremony, especially for Lord Mahavir, who is described as the "leader of the Jain faith" and the "upholder of the administration of the world." It explains that the ritual is performed to commemorate the birth of Tirthankaras, similar to how Indra and other deities perform the birth celebrations. The preface also touches upon the Jain principle of Syadvada (manifold aspects of truth) and warns against rigid, one-sided adherence to practices, advocating for devotion that keeps the ultimate goal (salvation) in focus. It mentions that the composition of this Snatra is for the benefit of society, especially in times of distress like the occurrence of plagues, where such rituals are performed daily for peace and well-being.
  • Ritualistic Procedure (Page 10-25): The core of the book details the step-by-step process of conducting the Snatra ceremony. This includes:
    • Preparation of the ritual space: Setting up thrones (singhasan), placing idols, and preparing the sacred bath ingredients.
    • Invocation and devotion: Using various hymns, verses (dohas), and songs (dhals) to praise the Tirthankaras.
    • Specific Pujas: Including Kusumanjali (offering flowers) to different Tirthankaras like Rishabhdev, Shantinath, Neminath, Parshvanath, and Mahavir.
    • The Bathing Process: Describing the use of the Panchamrita (five nectars: milk, yogurt, ghee, saffron, and water) for the ritualistic bath.
    • Aarti and other rituals: Performing the Aarti (worship with lamps) and other auspicious rituals.
    • Chanting: Mentioning the recitation of specific Jain prayers and mantras.
  • Catalog of Works (Page 6-9): The book also includes a catalog listing other published works by Acharya Shri Buddhisagar Surishwarji Maharaj and Shri Adhyatma Gyan Prasarak Mandal, covering various aspects of Jain philosophy, devotional songs (bhajans), and historical accounts.
• Key Themes:
  • Devotion to Tirthankaras: The central theme is expressing deep devotion and reverence towards the Tirthankaras, especially Lord Mahavir.
  • Spiritual Benefits: The ritual is believed to bring peace, alleviate suffering, and aid in spiritual progress and the shedding of karmic bonds.
  • Jain Principles: It reflects Jain values of devotion, righteousness, and the importance of righteous actions.
  • Commemoration: The Snatra ceremony serves as a way to remember and honor the divine qualities and teachings of the Tirthankaras.

In essence, "Snatrapooja" is a practical guide for Jain devotees to perform a significant ritual, imbued with spiritual teachings and devotional poetry, aimed at invoking blessings and fostering spiritual growth.