Regarding applying Tilaka from water

[Yasoda Jivan dasa]

Namaskāraḥ respected vidvaj-janas,

I humbly seek clarification regarding the śāstric basis for applying ūrdhva-puṇḍra or any form of tilaka using only water. Specifically, is there any authoritative scriptural reference—whether from Vedic, Purāṇic, Smṛti, or Vaiṣṇava texts—that permits the application of tilaka solely with water as a valid substitute in the absence of traditional materials such as candana, gopī-candana, bhasma, or similar substances?

I would be grateful for exact citations and contextual explanations from authentic sources.

[kenp]

AI Overview

It is acceptable to apply tilaka using only water, particularly when the clay is unavailable or when a visible mark is inappropriate for social or professional reasons

. This is considered an invisible representation that still provides spiritual benefits. 

Materials Needed

• Pure water: This should ideally be water that has bathed the Deity or pure water sanctified by chanting the Hare Krishna mantra (Hare Krishna, Hare Krishna, Krishna Krishna, Hare Hare/ Hare Rama, Hare Rama, Rama Rama, Hare Hare).
• Your fingers: The application is typically done with the ring finger of the right hand. 

Instructions for Application

Applying tilaka with water follows a similar process to using clay paste. 

1. Sanctify the water: Place a small amount of water in your left palm and chant purification mantras like the Hare Krishna mantra.
2. Apply to the forehead: Dip the ring finger of your right hand into the sanctified water. Apply it between the eyebrows, moving up to the hairline to form two vertical lines or a "U" shape. This mark represents Lord Vishnu's lotus feet, signifying the body as the Lord's temple.
3. Continue to other body parts: A complete tilaka involves marking twelve parts of the body while chanting specific names of Vishnu for each spot. The first four are:
   • Forehead: Om keshavaya namah
   • Belly: Om narayanaya namah
   • Chest: Om madhavaya namah
   • Neck: Om govindaya namah
     For the full list of names and positions, refer to the source.
4. Shikha area: Apply any remaining water to the back of the head where the shikha (hair tuft) is located, chanting om vasudevaya namaha. 

This practice with water serves as an internal and invisible symbol of devotion, invoking the Lord's protection and blessings. 

These guides explain how to apply tilaka using water for spiritual and devotional purposes:

https://iskcondesiretree.com/profiles/blogs/importance-of-vaishnav-tilaka-and-how-to-wear-it#:~:text=If%20you%20can't%20find,left:%20belly%20om%20vamanaya%20namaha