Have you thought? Why are women not priests in temples?

Hindu Rituals : In the scriptures and Vedas of Hindu religion, some special rules and methods have been prescribed for worship and rituals, which are considered mandatory to follow. Since ancient times, it has been believed that participation of men in yagya, rituals and worship of gods is considered more appropriate. This belief reflects the social condition of that time, when women were busy with household responsibilities and were not able to perform religious duties outside. For this reason men were mainly involved in these religious activities. This practice continued with time, although nowadays women are also getting a respectable place in this field.

Menstruation and religious traditions

In Hindu scriptures, menstruation is associated with principles of purity and sanctity, due to which women are advised to refrain from worship, rituals and entering temples during this period. According to the scriptures, this time is important for female body and mental relaxation, and is seen as maintaining peace and balance by abstaining from religious activities. Moreover, religious rituals require complete attention and energy, which is not possible during menstruation, hence since ancient times this responsibility has mostly been entrusted to men. This belief has been going on with time, although nowadays women have also started getting equal rights and place in religious activities.

energy of men and women

In Hindu religion, the energies of men and women are considered different. Men's energy is called 'Sun Energy' and women's energy is called 'Moon Energy'. Sun energy is considered a symbol of strength, stability and brightness, while Moon energy is considered a symbol of coolness, sensitivity and creativity. This is the reason why Sun energy is considered more suitable for the worship and rituals of Gods, because it has more power and focus. Men naturally have strong Sun energy, which makes them effective in religious activities. At the same time, the lunar energy of women makes them capable in family and creative work. For this reason, in the scriptures, men have been given more responsibility for worship and religious activities.

Protection of temples since ancient times

Since ancient times, the responsibility of protecting the temples and monitoring the works there was on the priests. At that time, women were more busy with family and social responsibilities, due to which they were not included in this work. This is why this tradition continues even today. Asceticism and celibacy are considered extremely important for worship and rituals in Hinduism. Priests have to follow truth and simplicity in their sadhana, so that their pujas and rituals can be performed effectively and correctly. This is necessary to maintain discipline and purity in their life.

From tradition to equality

Traditionally, women were considered more active in household life and family responsibilities, due to which the responsibility of worship was usually entrusted to men. However, it would be wrong to say that women were completely deprived of worship. From ancient times till today, women have been working as priestesses in some special temples. This role of women can still be seen prominently in some temples of South India. Due to changing times and increasing sense of equality in the society, now in many places women are also being given the opportunity to become priests, which is a sign of a positive change.

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