Knowledge Bank

Purpose of Puja

Puja is performed to connect with the divine and experience God's presence. It removes the imagined barrier between the soul and God, allowing God's light to shine unobstructed. Through puja, we align our lives with God's will, turning our bodies and actions into instruments of divine purpose. This practice helps us experience the joy and bliss of God's playful activities (leela). By engaging in puja, we can see the world as a divine realm and all beings as manifestations of God. This leads to a deep sense of unity and bliss, helping us immerse ourselves in divine joy and become one with it.

Importance of effort in spirituality

The Ganga cannot descend to earth unless a great ascetic like Bhagirath, with intense penance and unwavering determination, invites her with utmost devotion. Similarly, rainfall does not grace the earth until Indra, the wielder of the thunderbolt, releases the waters withheld in the skies. This highlights that without sincere effort and readiness, one cannot attain the Self (Atman). The Atman chooses only those who genuinely seek it and are prepared to strive for it.