Muhapatti
The muhapatti (variously spelled mahapatti, muhpatti or mahpatti) is a square of white cloth worn across the face and tied behind the ears or held. The purpose is to prevent saliva from coming into contact with sacred books, images or other items. It is often purported to be worn to reduce the chance of inhaling (and thus killing) small insects and other airborne life. Some Jains believe the destruction of even these tiny life forms is a violation of ahimsa, the principle of non-violence. Whilst this may be one benefit of the use of muhapatti, it is not the initial reason for use.
References
 | This date+December 2011 includes a list of references, related reading, or external links, but its sources remain unclear because it lacks inline citations. (January 2011) |
- Shah, Umakant Premanand (1987). Jaina-Rup̄a-Manḍạna, Volume 1. Abhinav Publications. p. 20. ISBN 817017208X,.
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