For which we seek the answers.

Why are temples built facing the east? Temples are built facing the east so that the first rays of the rising sun can fall on the image of the deity. The deity faces east, and the devotees face west, so that the sun’s rays fall on the god and are reflected on the devotee. Temples are compared to a woman’s body, sitting with her knees bent. The place where the deity is installed is known as the Garbha Griha, womb.

However, there is a temple facing west and this is the Mahalakshmi temple in Kolhapur. It is believed that Lakshmi was born to Varuna.

Why do we offer betel leaf (paan) to the Gods? Offering paan and betel nut is an ancient tradition. It means that all will remain well with one’s life. Betel nut and paan is only offered to married gods.

What are the favorite foods of Shiva and Vishnu? Since Shiva is a tapasvi, he is offered raw, unprocessed milk and Vishnu is offered butter and ghee. Shiva is happy with whatever is offered to him, but since Vishnu is a householder, great deal of effort goes into the making of prasad.

What do Devis like as prasad? Bhudevi, the earth goddess is considered to be a cow, whose milk sustains everyone. She always reminds one that prakriti has to be protected. One must remember that civilization is created by destruction of nature. Bhudevi tells Vishnu that people are troubling her and she wants to drink their blood. This means war, and these are described in the Ramayana and Mahabharata. If we venerate Prakriti, then we can prevent wars.

Aim Hrim Klim

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