Hinduism has thousands of gods and many of these gods manifest themselves in different forms. Brahman is the leading god and represents both existence, and non-existence. The three most important manifestations of Brahman are Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva. Roughly speaking, Brahma is the creator god. Vishnu is the responsible for preserving creation. Finally, Shiva is the god of destruction or nonexistence. [2] X Research source
One of the most popular mantras is “OM Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya. ”
A mala has 108 beads and you should try to do either one full rotation or ten. There is one particularly big bead, known as the head bead. Start at the bead directly after the head bead and roll it around with your thumb every time you repeat the mantra. When you reach the head bead, you have completed a full rotation. [6] X Research source One good pose for performing japa is Padmasana. This is a basic cross-legged position in which you keep your body posture upright and your feet on top of the thigh of your opposite leg. [7] X Research source Face north or east while preforming the japa. Sit on a rug. Do not hurry through the chant. Perform the chant slowly, concentrating on it, timing it with the slow pace of your your breathing. Avoid distractions. Focus intently on the meaning of the mantra. Your goal is to clear your mind.
A bhajan is sung in a group, not alone, so you will need to coordinate with others to perform one. [9] X Research source Temples will typically publicize times on which they will be performing a bhajan. Some will even include records of the bhajan, so that you can practice in advance. Review the website for information.
It is typical for men to wear slacks and a button up shirt. Typical business casual attire should suffice. Women are more inclined to dress up in traditional Indian attire. This is not mandatory, however, you might feel out of place without it. Consider a long kurta top with leggings or pants. For women wearing western attire, consider a long, loose dress. You should be comfortable sitting cross-legged in the dress. Hinduism is a large, diverse religion, so attire can differ from one temple to the other. In some temples, it Is much less common to wear western attire. Western attire is banned in some parts of India. [10] X Research source Do not wear animal skin, including leather. [11] X Research source
In Bali, you will also be required to wear a sarong. Upon entering, you will be given the sarong. Someone will help you put it on as well. [15] X Research source You might also see a foot wash area and a sink. You are not required to use these, but might want to if you need to clean up. [16] X Research source
For Namaste, put your hands together in front of you in a praying motion. Bend your head down slightly. Alternatively, you can go all the way down to your knees and bow your head to the ground. The gods will likely have their own alcoves, little spaces cut out in the wall that act like their “homes. ”[17] X Research source
Some temples divide services up by gender, but others do not. Pay attention to what others involved in the ritual are doing and repeat their actions. Also, observe how people greet each other. Often, instead of saying “hello,” they will say “Hari om” or “Sai Ram. ”[18] X Research source
This ritual represents bringing the spirit of the fire inside of yourself. [19] X Research source
After drinking the liquid, rub anything remaining on the top of your head. Watch what others are doing to make sure that you are following proper decorum. Rituals can vary somewhat from place to play. These offerings are considered a blessing from god. They are formally known as either prasadam or prasad. [20] X Research source
Extinguish cigarettes before entering and don’t bring any food or drink inside the temple. Don’t chew gum loudly and always dispose of trash in a trashcan. Turn cell phones and pagers to silent or turn them off completely.
