Sanskrit Lexicon

पूजा

Puja
pūjā

The precise linguistic root, etymology, and scriptural context of Puja.

Pronunciation
poo-jah

AEO Summary

Puja is the loving ritual worship and offering of reverence to a deity, guru, or divine concept.

Primary Meanings

  • Worship
  • Ritual offering
  • Adoration and honor

Tradition Context

Agamas & Bhakti Traditions

The loving offering of light, flowers, food, and water to a deity. It is the outer expression of inner devotion.

Scriptural Usage

Bhakti Framework

"षोडशोपचार पूजा"

Sixteen-fold worship.

Significance: The traditional sequence of offering 16 types of services to a deity, mirroring how one would treat a royal guest.

Etymology

Dhatu (Root)
pūj (पूज्)
Root Meaning
to honor, worship, or revere

The act of showing reverence to the Divine.

Broader Context

For the philosophical deep-dive, practical application, and related concepts of Puja.

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