|
The teachings and sayings of the Vedas and Puranas hold profound significance till date. Religious ceremonies, rituals and yajnas are performed according to those teachings. Have you wondered why? All religious practices that the Vedas talk about have their own significance. They are all ultimately done for the health and well-being of mankind. The lighting of the lamp, the ringing of bells in temples and the placement of the kalash have a spiritual significance. According to the Vedas and Puranas, yajnas and other religious ceremonies are incomplete without a kalash. It is believed that keeping a kalash during a ceremony and worshipping it brings good fortune and prosperity to the inmates of the house. Arrangement of a kalash Fundamentally, a kalash consists of a metal or earthen pitcher which is filled with holy water. The top end of this pitcher holds an arrangement of five, seven or eleven betel or mango leaves with their tips dipped in water. A red-yellow thread called the kalwa or mauli is tied around the neck of the pitcher and a coconut is placed on top. A swastika symbol is drawn on it using wet vermillion, sandalwood powder and turmeric. A kalash is placed near the idol of the god during a religious ceremony. It is positioned facing north. This position signifies balance; balance that all of us should have to achieve success in life. Religious Significance of a Kalash There are ancient legends associated with the religious significance of a kalash. It is said that when devas and asuras churned the ocean to obtain the nectar of immortality, the nectar appeared in a kalash. Hence, it is considered as the symbol of immortality. Some also believe that it is symbolic of creation. The pitcher represents planet earth. The holy water represents the elixir of life; all life forms are said to have originated from this water. The coconut and the leaves represent the creations of the almighty. The thread tied around the neck of the pot represents the force that binds all that has been created. According to a few religious hymns, the mouth, throat and the base of the kalash are seats of Lord Vishnu, Lord Shiva and Lord Brahma respectively. Its belly is symbolic of all goddesses. Thus, one kalash is symbolic of all gods and goddesses. This representation emphasises the universal truth that all gods are emanations of one supreme power. Shopping for a kalash No pooja or religious ceremony is complete without a kalash. Hence, you should keep this article in your home temple. Kalashs are available in a wide variety of materials: copper, brass, stoneware, glass, marble, steel and silver-plated, among others. Take your pick based on the material or the brand. Buy kalash online. Online stores provide you more convenience compared to other local retail stores.
Related Articles -
kalash, Buy kalash,
| 
