Mandir

Cards (24)

  • What is a Hindu place of worship called?
    A temple or mandir
  • What does the term 'mandir' mean?
    'The place where the mind becomes still'
  • What architectural feature does a mandir typically have?
    A shikhara
  • What does the shikhara represent in Hindu temples?
    A high mountain
  • Why are mountains considered sacred in Hinduism?
    They are seen as places where people can feel close to the Divine
  • Which direction do mandirs typically face?
    The rising sun
  • What do the steps leading up to a mandir symbolize?
    The journey towards God
  • What is a common symbol found decorating Hindu temples?
    The swastika
  • What do the four arms of the swastika represent?
    Good luck coming from all four corners of the world
  • How is the Nari swastika different from the Hindu swastika?
    It is rotated 45 degrees so that the arms are diagonal
  • Can Hindus worship at home or at a street shrine?
    Yes, they can worship at home or at a street shrine
  • What is a shrine in Hinduism?
    A holy place dedicated to a god or a holy person
  • What do Hindus believe about the temple?
    It is the earthly home of God
  • What do worshippers do when entering a temple?
    Remove their shoes and ring a bell
  • Why do worshippers ring a bell when entering a temple?
    To announce their presence to God
  • How many Hindu temples are there in India and around the world?
    Thousands
  • What is a deity in Hinduism?
    The form of God being worshipped
  • How do images or statues of deities help worshippers?
    They help people to concentrate in prayer
  • What do temples contain that are given offerings?
    Statues of the deities
  • What are offerings made to deities in temples?
    Flowers or fruit
  • Who leads worship in a Hindu temple?
    The temple priest
  • What is puja in Hinduism?
    A religious practice to worship, pray, or show respect to God
  • What is the arati in the context of puja?
    The welcoming ceremony and central activity in the puja
  • What activities are included in the arati ceremony?
    Lighting lamps, singing hymns, and chanting