In Sanatan tradition, it is common to have a place of worship in every home. Whether the house is small or large, people always dedicate a corner to devotion and worship of God. However, many people do not know how and where to build the prayer room so that positive energy remains within it and has a good effect on the entire house. Vastu Shastra outlines several important aspects related to the prayer room that must be taken into account.
Where to Build the Home Temple
According to Vastu Shastra, the prayer place of the house should be in the north-east direction, i.e., the Ishan corner. This is considered the direction of the deities. It is said that building the home temple in this direction maintains happiness, peace, and positive energy in the house. The first rays of the sun fall in this direction, which transmits divine power.
If it is not possible to build a temple in the Ishan corner for any reason, then the north or east direction can be given priority. Under no circumstances should the temple be in the south-west, near the bathroom, or on the kitchen slab.
Which Direction to Face While Worshiping
While worshiping, the person should face east or north. Many people are confused about which direction God is in, but it is important which direction the person is facing while worshiping. According to astrology, the direction of worship can be determined even more accurately according to a person's horoscope. But in general, the east or north direction is considered the best.
What Should the Idol Be Like and How Big Should It Be
Vastu also provides clear guidelines regarding the height of the idols to be placed in the home temple. The height of the idol should be between two inches and ten inches. Keeping larger idols in the home temple is not considered appropriate. Also, broken or damaged idols should not be kept.
Two idols of the same deity should not be kept in the temple. In addition, triangular-shaped idols are also not advised to be kept in the temple. It is better not to keep idols brought from outside without proper installation.
Which Utensils to Keep in the Temple
The use of copper utensils is considered best during worship. If copper is not available, steel utensils can be used. Plastic or aluminum utensils should be avoided. It is also good to keep brass or bronze lamps and bells in the temple.
What Not to Do in the Home Temple
The home temple should never be built next to the bedroom or toilet wall. The door of the temple and the door of the toilet should not be opposite each other. Also, building the temple near the kitchen is not considered auspicious.
The idols of gods should not be placed directly opposite each other. If calendars or pictures of gods are to be placed on the walls, they can be opposite each other, but not the idols.
How to Place the Idol of Ganesha
It is considered auspicious to place two idols of Ganesha back to back at the main entrance of the house. Ganesha's face should be towards the house so that positivity enters the house. Do not keep Ganesha's back towards the house as it indicates the netherworld.
Where to Place Pictures of Ancestors
Vastu Shastra also specifies the place to put pictures of your ancestors in the house. Such pictures should be placed in the south-west direction of the house. If that direction is not available, then it is appropriate to place them in the south direction. Keep in mind that pictures of ancestors should never be kept in the prayer room.
Location of Wardrobe and Other Decorations
If a wardrobe is to be kept in the prayer room, it should be in the south-west direction. Pooja items, lamps, incense sticks, ghee, oil, etc. can be kept in it. The wardrobe should not be heavy and cleanliness should be taken care of.
The Process of Purification Before Worship
If you are unable to take a bath before going to the temple, then it is considered necessary to at least purify your feet. Pour water from your right hand to wash your feet and wash your feet with your left hand. First, wash the back part of the foot, then the front. Finally, sprinkling a little water on the head purifies the body is considered auspicious.
The Home Temple is Not Only a Place of Faith, But a Center of Energy
The prayer room is not only considered a place of devotion to God, but it is also a center of energy and positivity in the house. When this place is in accordance with Vastu and religious rules, it has a good effect on the entire family. Happiness, peace, and prosperity remain in the house. Therefore, do not ignore the small things related to the temple and build your prayer room according to Vastu.
