This article, ‘Temple Etiquette: The Dos When Visiting a Place of Worship,’ details the acceptable behavior when visiting a worship place.
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Introduction
Asia is the cradle of diverse religions, such as Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, and Buddhism. Christianity and Islam have the largest religious adherents, while 20% of the world’s population are deeply devout to Hinduism and Buddhism.
Monumental and notable temples are spread out across India and the rest of the world. Their obvious appeal and deep cultural significance make them more than just hallowed places of worship; they are impressive sights to behold.
Did You Know: Erected in the early 12th century, Angkor Wat is a massive Hindu-Buddhist temple in Siem Reap, Cambodia. It is the largest religious monument in the world, spanning 162.6 hectares.
Read Angkor Pass: An Excellent Guide to Exploring Angkor Temples for a complete guide on obtaining Angkor Pass.
Besides the incredible natural wonders, a visit to any Asian destination would not be complete without seeing a house of worship. Visitors, however, must be accustomed to appropriate behavior and behave with the utmost propriety. Thus, keep in mind several fundamental rules of temple etiquette.
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Dress Appropriately
Like any other religious places, a temple is a sacred space where people are expected to dress appropriately. Devotees and visitors, are discouraged from wearing revealing, as well as provocative outfits, including off-the-shoulder tops, crop tops, miniskirts, and high-slit gowns for women. Men, on the other hand, should refrain from donning sleeveless shirts and short shorts.
Such clothing is completely inappropriate for a sacred environment. Otherwise, dress modestly so as to cover the shoulder, back, and knees, while keeping a respectful appearance.
Here’s a tip: If in case you failed to follow the dress code, ‘sarong’ and robes can be lent for free or for a fee at certain temples or places of worship.
Refrain from Making Noises
Temples and other places of worship are sacred venues for prayer and self-reflection. Thus, it is important to maintain a peaceful and calming atmosphere while fostering spiritual growth.
That being said, religious followers and pilgrims should refrain from making deafening and unnecessary noises. Tone down voice and mute mobile devices while inside the prayer grounds.
Avoid Taking Photos
Taking photographs or videos, most especially at religious rites and rituals are prohibited in some temples or worship houses. Observe the house rules or ask permission with regard to photography and video recording.
If photography is allowed on temple premises, check to see if the camera is in the flash-off mode. Additionally, keep a safe distance from the worshippers when taking photographs and refrain from interfering.
Behave Inside the Prayer Halls
Religious objects of all kinds, such as statues, images, carved stone lanterns, and relics, are revered and should be treated with the utmost regard. Hence, abstain from acts that willfuly deface and damage such religious articles.
In Buddhism, the Buddha is supposed to be at the uppermost elevation. Thus, it is not right for worshippers to sit higher and closer to it. When leaving, back off a few feet then turn around.
It is also deemed improper to sit with the feet pointed toward the direction of the Buddha. Instead, kneel or sit with the legs folded.
Don't Point Fingers
Pointing with the index fingers is regarded as impolite and an offensive hand gesture, most especially when directed toward a person. As an alternative, hold out the arm to someone with an open palm when referring to something.
Restrain from Affectionate Gestures
Public Display of Affection, or simply PDA, is an intimate interaction between a couple in public environments. Any forms of affectionate gestures, such as kissing, cuddling, and hand-holding, are not tolerated in temples and other worship places. Decency, therefore, be strictly observed in any sacred environment.
Show Respect to the Monks
A monk belongs to a religious order who commits to living a life in prayers. Pilgrims and worshippers should follow appropriate temple etiquette when dealing with monks.
Monks allow interactions. Before engaging in discussions, take a seat first and remain in a position that is significantly lower than that of a seated monk.
Moreover, it is considered rude to take a picture of a monk without his consent. Most of all, women should also keep a safe distance from the monks to free them from any kinds of connection and emotional attachments.
Give Donations
Most places of worship, including temples, do not require donations. However, visitors and devotees are encouraged to share any amount to keep the organization running.
Religious beliefs so as with hallowed places should be regarded with reverence regardless of whether one is a devotee or merely a temple visitor. When visiting a place of worship, act appropriately and be guided with essential rules of temple etiquette.
About the Author
J. Sac is the author of ‘Temple Etiquette: The Dos When Visiting a Place of Worship.’ He is also the founder of Traveledictorian – a travel blog that publishes compelling travel-related content.
His passion for writing, photography, and travel fueled him to explore parts of Asia and soon the rest of the world. He also plans to undertake humanitarian work in his future travels. Read his inspiring story and follow him on social media!
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