A Hindu temple, or mandir, holds sacred images of God in different forms, called murtis. Priests care for them. Unlike a church, there’s usually no single weekly service. Temples have set viewing times, called darshan, plus big festivals like Diwali. In America they’re often busiest on weekends. Some, like the temple in Dayton, Ohio, suggest a good first-visit time on their website.
Before you go
Shoes off. It’s required. Socks are fine.
Dress modestly: no shorts, no short skirts, nothing sleeveless. The Atlanta temple suggests clothes loose enough to sit cross-legged. Many temples ask visitors to avoid leather.
Bring nothing you’d mind leaving outside. The grounds are vegetarian, and alcohol and tobacco aren’t allowed.
What happens
People walk clockwise through the temple, pausing in front of each deity. When the curtain or screen opens, that’s darshan: seeing, and being seen by, God.
During aarti, a priest waves a tray of lamps in front of the deity. Worshippers pass their hands over the flame and draw them toward their faces. Afterward, prasad is handed out: a blessed sweet or fruit. It’s always vegetarian. Take it with your right hand. You may also be offered holy water or a mark on the forehead.
You can join in, or simply watch and reflect. The Dayton temple says both are welcome.
Do and don’t
- Don’t touch the murtis or shrines. Only priests do.
- Never enter the inner chamber.
- Give and receive with your right hand.
- Don’t point your feet toward the shrine when you sit.
- Ask a priest before taking photos. Silence your phone.
What to say
Namaste, with palms together and a slight bow. Bringing fruit or flowers is a kind gesture, and never required.
Worried?
“Do I have to be Hindu?” No. The Atlanta temple: anyone may visit.
Try it on
Have you ever asked a Hindu neighbor what their temple means to them, or only what they eat?