Puja

Puja is a form of ceremonial worship in Hinduism." Women conduct a household puja, the offering of fruit, raw rice, flowers, incense, and other items to the deity, on a regular basis." (Manual 132) A puja can be performed for a specific reason or just as an act to honor a god. When the offering is sacrificed, it is thought that the god has spiritually consumed and blessed it. The offering is shared so that everyone can be blessed by the deity, the god or goddess being worshipped. Most Hindus worship the Mother Goddess.

by: Carly Tiras

Sources:

Manual page 132

http://www.hinduvaidikpuja.com/About.php

http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/puja

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