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Glimpses of World Religions
accordance with, Todarmal Memory Trust in Jaipur. This is in order to have a deep study of Jain philosophy. In this, knowledge of the Jain religion can be acquired. By this institution, learned, scholars, Pandits are trained. Digambar Scholars give lectures on Jainism in the various countries of the world.
The Digambar Jain Munis, chiefly, lay emphasis on the ‘reaching out towards the internal poise of the soul on the way to super-human way leaving completely the popular routes.
Deravasi Creed Believing in Idolatry
Not only in India, but in foreign countries also, the (Derasars) temples of this religious creed are spread over. Their way of devotion and pooja is unique. The Shrawakas (householders) perform the Astapratiharee Pooja everyday. They pray to God, bowing to the idols of Gods.
Snatra Pooja, Panchkalyani Pooja, Vastu Pooja, the (remedying) bowing with emotional feelings, the pooja as remedies for removing the obstacles, 108 Abhisekas (pouring pure waters from holy pots), 17 Bhedi Pooja, Poojas of Sages, Rishimandal Pooja, Pooja or respectfully bowing to the ‘Siddhachakra' (a medium, 'yantra') and Arham Poojas – these are performed on certain occasions.
The Shrawakas do perform Japa (repetition of names of Gods), penance, observing of Vratas or fasting etc. rigid religious disciplines, vows, as shown or prescribed in the Jain Dharma. The penance known as the 'Upadhyan Tapa' requiring a saintlike life for 45 days is the unique characteristic. At night, the idols of Gods in the temples (Derāsaras) of the Jains, are specially adorned with ornaments. This is called Angi. At this time, a sort of chorus devotional song, in accompaniments with musical
