The Saiva Manram, 217 Great Western Highway, Mays Hill, NSW 2145 Australia Telephone: 02 96871695
STAGE 2 - YEAR 4 TERM 3 – LESSON 4
Holy water or milk (Theerthem)
Theertham is Holy water in Hindu Mythology. It is offered in temples and after poojas. This water is considered magical and has high medicinal properties. Theertham is considered Holy since it has touched the body of God while Holy Mantras are being chanted. It can be seen as one of the mediums to receive divine positive energy. Theertham is an herbal medicinal composition. This water is special because it is used in Abhishekam(for health, wealth, peace of mind and removal of sins). Different liquids such as coconut water, milk, honey and rose water can be used as theertham.
Theertham must be received by the priest 3 times. Ancients state that theertham should not drop while serving at receiving on the ground. The theertham is sipped 3 times to cleanse the body, soul and for salvation. Theertham is prepared in a vessel which is made of copper, silver, or brass. Temples related to God Vishnu serve ‘Thulasi theertham’ (Water mixed with basil) to devotees. Temples related to God Shiva serve ‘Maredu Theertham’ (Water mixed with bael leaves) to devotees. Temples related to other deities serve water mixed with cardamom, cloves, and edible camphor as theertham to devotees.
The Saiva Manram Term3 Year4 Lesson 4 Page 1 | 2 How to take Theertham? Right palm should be bent like a cow’s ear. The index finger should touch the thumb. The left palm should hold a piece of cloth to support the right palm. Before sipping you should take the right palm with theertham near both eyes and sip in a sitting position.
QUESTION
1. What items are needed to make theertham?
2. Temples related to Lord Vishnu serve what kind of theertham?
3. Temples related to Lord Shiva serve what kind of theertham?
4. Why is theertham received three times from the priest?
5. How should you receive theertham?
6. Why is theertham important in Hinduism?
The Saiva Manram Term3 Year4 Lesson 4 Page 2 | 2