Approaching deity

Approaching Deity in Hinduism

• In Hinduism, there is a profound understanding that the Divine is both transcendent and imminent, meaning it is beyond the universe and at the same time, present within everything.
• It is believed that the Divine can manifest itself in multiple forms, referred to as Avatars or manifestations, which enable Hindus to approach, understand and connect with the Divine in various ways.

Concept of Ishta Devata (Chosen Deity)

• Hindu tradition allows the practice of Ishta Devata or a chosen personal deity. This enables a Hindu to focus their worship on a particular manifestation of the Divine that they feel most connected with.
• Approaching deity through a chosen form allows the devotee a measure of familiarity and personal connection to the Divine.
• This doesn’t mean that Hindus worship many deities but rather different manifestations or aspects of the one Supreme Reality.

Murti Puja

• A central way of approaching deity in Hinduism is through the worship of statues or images known as Murtis.
• Murtis serve as a physical focus point for devotion and are often seen as a divine presence, especially when consecrated (invoking the Divine into the Murti).
• During Murti Puja, offerings are made, prayers and mantras are chanted, and rituals like aarti (light ceremony) are performed.

Deity in Home and Temple

• The Mandir, or Hindu temple, is a significant place where the deity is approached, though deity can be approached at home as well through the household shrine.
• Approach to deity in the temple is often more formal, with several rituals performed under the guidance of a priest.
• At home, the approach to the deity is personal and familial. Daily worship (Puja) is performed, which includes prayers, offerings and sometimes meditation.

Role of Devotion (Bhakti) in Approaching Deity

• Devotion or Bhakti is at the very heart of approaching deity in Hinduism. Hindus show their devotion and love for the Divine through various practices like prayer, pilgrimage, fasting and ritual.
• Bhakti is seen as a path to moksha (liberation) as it is believed to purify the heart and mind, enabling realization of the Divine within oneself.

Different Paths in Approaching Deity

• The approach to the Divine varies among Hindus and there are different paths or Margas prescribed in Hinduism. The three main paths are Bhakti Marga (path of devotion), Jnana Marga (path of knowledge) and Karma Marga (path of duty).
• The paths are not mutually exclusive and can be followed in combination. For example, a Hindu might approach deity through devotion and prayer (Bhakti Marga), while also fulfilling their societal and familial duties with a sense of selflessness and integrity (Karma Marga).