The performance of various types of rituals is intrinsically linked with worship in Sanaatan Dharma. Every religious observance is marked by the performance of essential rituals such a puja, havan or yagya. Even daily practices such as the offering of jal or dhaar may be termed as ritual worship. For many of us, rituals, especially puja, is a necessary part of the celebration of significant events in our lives, such as birthdays, anniversaries and marriages. Our ancestors placed tremendous emphasis on rituals and there continues to be a proliferation of these necessary rituals today.
Some claim that rituals are merely mechanical practices deeply rooted in religion, whereas contemplation upon the higher nature of the Divine, in the relative absence of rituals, cultivates spirituality. However, one must understand that there are sound philosophical reasons for the performance of every type of ritual in Sanaatan Dharma. Only when we understand the significance and relevance of what we are doing, will we truly appreciate it. The fact that we lack adequate understanding of some ritual observance is no reason to blindly condemn it.
Shraddha or faith must be a necessary part of any form of ritual worship. Some also claim that ritual worship helps to continually reaffirm their faith. However, one might say that religion devoid of rituals becomes rather insipid in nature. Moreover, it is only when the rituals are divorced from faith that they become purely mechanical and characterless. Humans have not yet reached the state where we can ignore all symbols and rituals and concentrate conscientiously upon purely abstract principles. The majority of us still require some assistance in our efforts to communicate with the Divine. Thus, rituals tend to add a definite form to the abstract spiritual ideals that we contemplate. Shree Krishna states in chapter 12, verse 5 of the Bhagavad Gita: “The strain is greater for those who have their mind attached to the Unmanifest, as attunement with the Unmanifest is attained with difficulty by body-conscious people.” This pronouncement, along with innumerable examples from our scriptures, indicates that we should incorporate rituals into our lives.
Many rituals in our religion involve fasting, a form of discipline. If one is able to develop a steady mind, and direct it towards accomplishing a particular task, he or she will undoubtedly be successful. Through the aid of ritual worship, the right mood and environment is created. This is essential in ensuring that the aspiring devotee can detach from the maaya of this material existence and contemplate wholeheartedly upon the Divine. Let us always strive to broaden our understanding and appreciation of rituals.
