Siva Temples

UPANISHAD EIGHT: SACRED WORSHIP

Sloka 101

What Is the Nature of the Siva Temple?

The Siva temple is the home of God Siva and the Gods, the place in which the three worlds can most easily communicate. It is especially holy, having a ray of spiritual energy connecting it to the heaven worlds.

Sloka 102

How Are Temples Founded and Built?

Siva temples are founded by God Himself, often beginning with a vision or dream of a devout Saivite, then built by temple craftsmen, usually following the rules found in the Agama texts. In such a holy place, holiness itself can reside.

Sloka 103

When Should We Attend the Temple?

We attend the temple to be close to God Siva, Karttikeya or Ganesha at least once each week. We also go on auspicious days of the month, on yearly festival days and on the holiest day of the year, Mahasivaratri.

Sloka 104

How Does One Attend a Siva Temple?

Approaching with deep reverence, we begin our worship with Ganesha, walk all the way around the temple and go to the main shrine for puja. After receiving the holy ash and other blessed items, we sit quietly for awhile before leaving.

Sloka 105

What Occurs Within the Siva Temple?

Activities within a Siva temple vary from the daily cycle of pujas to the elaborate celebrations on annual festival days. Even in large crowds, our worship is personal and individual, rather than group oriented.