Questioner: Premjit

Subject: Idol worship in Hinduism

Question: Dear Acharyaji,

I have seen the priest responsible for energising the ordinary carved rock through Prana Pratista and Mantra Pratista, himself later prays to the idol after the act. Why should he do so as he himself was responsible for converting a non-living rock into a conscious energy centre.

Thanks and best wishes,

Prem

---

Jagannatha Prakasa's reply

Namaskar Premjit,

Many people do various things. I can't really speak to this particular event.

Prana Pratista is the correct way to energize the image, with or without Mantra Pratista however.

In my mind, it would depend on how he views and explains his activities. If the carving was of an authorized murti, then it sounds proper to me.

To my mind, there are a few things that determine whether or not an image is an idol or a murti. Part of it depends on whether or not the image is authorized in the scriptures and undergoes the proper rites. Another consideration is the attitude of the worshipper.

Murtis can be made of stone and the person who performs the installation can certainly worship the murti. The rituals of installation are defined in the scriptures.

I'm not really clear on what you asking here. It sounds like a standard installation rite to me. Perhaps you are thinking this rite is pointless idol worship? If so, you should study to understand the difference between an idol and a murti.

Om Santi,

~ Jagannatha Prakasa

There is a Follow-up to this question.

Om Jai Jagannatha!	AllFaith Sanatana Dharma Home Page
	Bhagavad Gita translated by Jagannatha Prakasa
	Gitabhasya of Jagannatha Prakasa