Thread by @physiomayuri03

🧵“Why do we offer Naivedyam to God—when He doesn’t eat it?” A thread inspired by my 7-year-old’s honest question. 🍚✨
1/
“Aai, God doesn’t eat the food. We eat it. Then why do we offer it to Him first? Isn’t it just drama?”
He asked this while watching me place payasam before the deity this Janmashtami.
I smiled. Because this question had once bothered me in my childhood.

2/ But explaining the reason to a 7 yr old was not easy. I tried to keep it very simple.
I told him:
“It’s not about feeding God. It’s about remembering where everything comes from.”
Naivedyam is our way of saying thank you—for the rice, the milk, the fire, the breath.

3/ It’s a gesture of love and reverence, where the devotee prepares food with purity of mind and intention, often without tasting it beforehand—a mark of restraint and respect.

4/ 🪔
“Imagine a special guest at home. You can’t see them, but you know they’re watching. Wouldn’t you offer them the first bite?”
God is that invisible guest. The ritual reminds us to serve before we enjoy.

5/ Once offered, the food becomes Prasad—blessed nourishment.
It’s not just nutrition. It’s grace.
Shared among all, it fosters unity, equality, and cheerful acceptance (prasāda buddhi).

6/🌿 Subtle Energetics
During puja, food absorbs sacred vibrations—enhancing sattva, reducing rajas and tamas.
Some traditions say Prasad balances the five pranas, supporting holistic well-being.

7/ So yes, God doesn’t eat the food.
But He receives our love.
And when we eat it after offering, we’re not just feeding our tummy—we’re feeding our soul.

8/ Rituals aren’t drama.
They’re reminders.
Of humility, gratitude, and the joy of giving before receiving.
And sometimes, it takes a child’s question to reveal their true meaning. 🌼