Types of Pujas
Pujas can be either water (feminine) or fire (masculine) ceremonies. Traditionally, it is the water ceremony that was referred to as a Puja, and the fire ceremony was called a yajnas, which would commence with a short water ceremony.
In modern era, pujas can be conducted using either discipline, or a combination of each for balance and harmony. Water represents Spirit, it is receptive and active in its movement and flow. It is the carrier of our desires created during puja. It is received from the heavens in the highest mountain regions of the world, yet flows down to us in offering. Fire carries back up the sacrifices we offer in thanks to the Creator. It purifies our earthly offerings, and transforms our desires into energy for action.
