Hindu way of life - Temple priests Flashcards
Who are pandits?
Skilled teachers of sanskrit
Who are pujaris?
Temple priests
Who are purohits?
Family priest outside of the temple
Who are temple priests paid by?
The temple to perform daily rituals
Which caste to temple priests come from?
Brahmin/priestly caste
What do temple priests do?
Perform regular worship and special ceremonies, perform samskaras in homes and temple
What gender are temple priests?
Traditionally males, however movements such as ISKCON welcome women
What rules do temple priests have to follow?
Vegetarian diet, no drinking/drugs, no gambling
What language are they expected to be knowledgeable in?
Sanskrit
What do temple priests do for murtis?
Bathe them, dress them, prepare them for worship
Why do temple priests attend to the murtis?
Because they are spiritually closer/purer
What kind of temple puja do temple priests perform?
Offer various items to the gods, arti (waving ghee lamp before the murtis), ringing the bell to signify beginning of the ritual, distribute holy water which is sprinkled over the devotees, receive gifts brought by worshippers, chant mantras, open and close curtains at beginning and end of the service
What kind of education do temple priests go through?
Formal Vedic education
What is the primary concern of temple priests?
Obedience to dharma
