Posted by murali on August 16, 1997 at 00:01:38:
In Reply to: visiting a temple for class project posted by Chriss on August 15, 1997 at 23:26:17:
Hi Chris, I will try this reply again.
I hope this will help.
First, don't dress up as much as going to Church. I wore a suit the first time and stood out like a sore thumb.
Try casual but neat.
Second, if you arrive on time at the begining of the service, don't be surprised if only a few people are there.
Indians generally drift in about fifteen minutes to thirty minutes after the start.
Look out for the fact that the women and men sit on the floor on different sides, so look before you sit.
Since you will be on the floor, you may wish to take a pillow. Don't be embarassed, it is better to be comfortable.
Sometimes, there are chairs at the back. But you will enjoy it more if you join everyone on the floor.
The floor is often covered with white sheets. This is what you need to be on.
MAKE SURE YOU TAKE OFF YOUR SHOES WHEN YOU ENTER.
Where you first enter the building there will be a place to leave them.
Try to keep the Divine in your thoughts.
I hope you enjoy your experience at the Temple.
Kind regards,
Murali.