Philosophies and traditions that originate from the more incredible Indian subcontinent all have one thing in common – discussions related to realizing one’s true nature. Ancient literature and methods such as yoga guide us to realize that our fundamental nature or our true Self entails an inward journey of recognition coupled with awareness. Thus, there is a significant focus on identifying the body and the functions of the mind – each of which is temporary and bound by space and time. The goal here is to understand that we are not the physical body nor the limited function of the mind; we are much more than that. Jnana yoga – the path of self-inquiry and wisdom tries to make us realize that I am the Universe or the Brahmand (Tat Tvam Asi). Meaning that our existence is limitless and eternal, and the false identification with limited, physical aspects of our body can be overcome.
A temple is not just a physical location or a destination but a doorway. The tool to facilitate the process of access to increasing awareness is yoga. Within yoga, a temple is an instrument available to us to realize the dormant aspects of understanding within ourselves. A consecrated temple serves as a battery charging station for us, enhancing our abilities to perceive the Truth. Consecration of a space that allows us to experience the source of Creation itself. Such spaces are built in a way for us to realize that the source of Creation flows through us and that we are the eternal Self. Each consecrated temple might have a different type of energy, relating to different deities or dedicated to various chakras – metaphysical energy centers within the body.
A temple is an invitation to the Divine. According to Vaastu Shastra texts, the ancients were aware of and practiced the science of architecture. They ascertained the energy aspects of a space before settling down in that space. For example, according to a Vaastu scholar – Sashikala Ananth – those in ancient India wanting to build a new town would first visit the place and stay there for a few days to determine whether to live there. They would feel the energy of the place and the constituency of the soil, examine the water bodies, and analyze the types of trees and foliage as well as wind directions. They would even taste the soil and water to determine the feasibility of settlement. This is because the Pancha Bhutas or the five main elements – space, fire, water, wind, and earth – make up the Universe and also make up the earth as well as our bodies. Inter and intra harmony and congruence with the elements are thus essential to be aware of.
A temple is a tool and a possibility to access that which is beyond the physical. Temples were first built in a suitable space before settlers built the town. This would ensure that everyone could access the energies within the temples. Looking at temple architecture, we can see that the layout resembles the human form. We enter the temple, walk up to where the third eye or the Ajna chakra is, circumambulate around the consecrated deity, and imbibe the energy in the space. As we gaze upon the deity, the deity gazes back, and this act of grace is known as Darshana. Devotees and worshippers often make offerings to the deity, including offering themselves.
Rituals within the temples may not have been conducted daily in every temple, as not all temples are consecrated spaces; many temples have been built by devotees who felt the need to have a structure dedicated to devotion and surrender. For example, people on the path of Bhakti yoga have built temples all over India, most likely outside India. The idea is to sit in the temple and connect with that which is larger than ourselves.
Many temples are being vandalized or are in a bad state due to neglect. We must remember that we need temples more than temples might need us. We can only survive twenty-four hours by charging our phones, so how did we forget to charge ourselves with renewed energy and positivity provided by temples?
Temples have been doing us favors for centuries. It is time we begin to do favors for ourselves and visit them. Temples do not discriminate; they let everyone in. It is up to us to be selfish and thereby take steps to preserve what is helpful to us.
Image credit: Prakasam, Pexels
Excerpts from:
Kanojia, A. (2022). Śarīra (Body). In Hinduism and Tribal Religions (pp. 1426-1433). Dordrecht: Springer Netherlands.
Kanojia, A. (2022). The Politics and Promise of Yoga: Contemporary Relevance of an Ancient Practice. Rowman & Littlefield.