What is the purpose of having a glass water at altar?

There are various reasons for having a glass of water at an altar, depending on the religious or spiritual tradition:

Hindus: In Hinduism, it is common to offer a glass of water to deities as part of a puja ritual. The water represents purity, devotion, and sustenance. It is believed that offering water satisfies the thirst of the deities, and also serves as a symbol of the giver's desire for spiritual nourishment.

Buddhists: In Buddhism, a glass of water at the altar may symbolize the offering of something pure and refreshing to the Buddha or other enlightened beings. It also represents the concept of impermanence, as the water's surface can be easily disturbed and disrupted, just like the transient nature of life.

Shinto: In Shinto, a glass of water may be offered to kami (spirits) at shrines. It represents purity and is used in purification rituals before making offerings and prayers.

Wicca and Other Pagan Traditions: Some practitioners of Wicca and other Pagan traditions may have a glass of water on the altar as a representation of the element of water. This can be part of a ritual to balance and invoke the different elements (earth, air, fire, water) during magical practices.

Spiritual Cleansing and Purification: Water is widely associated with purification in many spiritual traditions. Having a glass of water at the altar can serve as a reminder of the importance of spiritual cleansing and the washing away of negative energies.

Aesthetic Element: In some cases, the presence of a glass of water at an altar may simply be for aesthetic purposes, adding an element of natural beauty and serenity to the sacred space.