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Kriya Yoga and Idol-Worship
In the case of the movable image there is an option, but in the case of the sacrificial ground etc., they are compulsory.
The necessary acts of worship vary according to the image set up for worship. In ordinary images I should be invoked and released at every time of worship while in fixed images and Saligramas it is unnecessary to do so. Clay images and pictures ought not to be washed while others should be washed. In the former ones sprinkling or wiping is admissible.
The worship of the images should be performed with worthy and excellent articles that are available. A sincere devotee may worship Me in the heart with whatever he can get or even merely by mental offerings.
O Uddhava, in images, bathing and decoration are dearest to Me; in the sacrificial ground the contemplation of Tattvas or the location of the deities, and in fire, offerings soaked in ghee. In the sun, worship with prayers and Arghya or water at the proper period is dearest to Me; in water, with water and flowers etc. Even water offered to Me by a devotee with faith is most pleasing to Me - what needs then be said of the offerings like sandal, flowers, light, perfume, incense and various kinds of food. But abundant offerings from one who is not devoted to Me cannot please Me and secure My grace.
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