I've read a decent amount about religions, but I know reading is no substitute for going out and experiencing. I went to a Hindu temple for the first time on Sunday. I felt it touched my soul in a way nothing else had, but at the same time I was terrified.
I was so lost. I guess a Hindu temple is about the most foreign place I've ever been in, where the social norms are unknown. I went in the, er...main temple part of the temple(There were other rooms. I'm not so sure on terminology), after much hesitation, and sat in the back watching. After everything was over, some girls did come and talked to me, but I had so much nervousness it was hardly a meaningful conversation.
I'd like to try doing some of the things there, but I don't want to cause any disrespect, to people or deities. I brought an apple I thought I might offer, but I was so uncertain about everything it just stayed in my purse the whole time. I think I'd like to go earlier next time to ask questions from a priest, but I don't even know what to ask. I've had this feeling of despair since Sunday that I'll never understand everything well enough, or find acceptance among the people(even with nothing really to suggest it).
Has anyone else felt lost like this?
What kind of etiquette is there at temples?
Or I'd love to hear any general tips. I did read through a bunch of the threads in this section, but I'll probably need anything anyone has to say ^^; Thank you.
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