Zeth
07 May 2009, 09:01 PM
Hello, folks.
I've a problem with which I hope to find aid here. Long story short, I'm very interested in Sanatana Dharma and have decided to attend at a local temple within the week. The problem is, I don't know quite where to begin or what to have in mind as I go for the first time.
I've read your other threads detailing conduct, what times are best, etc., so I've got the basics, but I still don't quite get a few things. Some of these might be non-issues, but with India's high level of culture and decorum it's hard to know; I'd hate to make a poor impression with good intentions.
-Is it best to go during a puja to experience the group worship, or at an
off-time when the priest might have time to speak with me?
-When I find the priest (I presume he'll be easy to spot), do I wait for him
to approach me, or do I go to him? How do I address him?
-Can you recommend any literature detailing how to undertake the physical
duties of the temple (offering, prayer form, etc.), ideally in reference
format?
-Is there a prayer or offering non-Hindus can make to ask guidance and to
give their first visit(s) increased spiritual purpose? If so, what might I do,
and for which Deity (and why that particular Deity)?
-Should a man avoid looking at or speaking to women as one would in a
mosque, or can he look at or speak to them like he would anyone
(obviously the 'other' motive is not for a temple setting)?
If anyone can offer insight into one or more of these areas, it'll be greatly appreciated.
Thank you in advance.
I've a problem with which I hope to find aid here. Long story short, I'm very interested in Sanatana Dharma and have decided to attend at a local temple within the week. The problem is, I don't know quite where to begin or what to have in mind as I go for the first time.
I've read your other threads detailing conduct, what times are best, etc., so I've got the basics, but I still don't quite get a few things. Some of these might be non-issues, but with India's high level of culture and decorum it's hard to know; I'd hate to make a poor impression with good intentions.
-Is it best to go during a puja to experience the group worship, or at an
off-time when the priest might have time to speak with me?
-When I find the priest (I presume he'll be easy to spot), do I wait for him
to approach me, or do I go to him? How do I address him?
-Can you recommend any literature detailing how to undertake the physical
duties of the temple (offering, prayer form, etc.), ideally in reference
format?
-Is there a prayer or offering non-Hindus can make to ask guidance and to
give their first visit(s) increased spiritual purpose? If so, what might I do,
and for which Deity (and why that particular Deity)?
-Should a man avoid looking at or speaking to women as one would in a
mosque, or can he look at or speak to them like he would anyone
(obviously the 'other' motive is not for a temple setting)?
If anyone can offer insight into one or more of these areas, it'll be greatly appreciated.
Thank you in advance.