PRATHISTHA-Installation
of the image of the lord.
Prathistha
is the name given to the ceremony of installing the image
of the lord in a newly built or a renovated Jain temple. But
of course it is absolutely essential that Anjan Kriya should
be done to the new image. (Smearing of collyrium to the eyes
of the image). This ceremony is carried out along with other
celebrations for some days. A noble house- holder installs
the image of the lord at an auspicious time on an auspicious
day. Oh this occasion many kinds of worship are offered to
the sacred powers and divine objects along with singing of
hymns and observances. The image installed in the temple is
only a symbol; but actually it should enable people to install
the lord in their hearts.
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