Temple

Temple

A temple is a structure reserved for religious or spiritual activities, such as prayer and sacrifice, or analogous rites. Temples are found in many cultures and religions, and they vary greatly in form and function. This article explores the concept of temples across different cultures and religions.

Hindu Temples

The Sripuram Temple in India

Hindu temples, known as mandirs, are places of worship for followers of Hinduism. They are designed to bring humans and gods together using symbolism to express the ideas and beliefs of Hinduism. The structure of a Hindu temple is often a complex of buildings, with the main shrine housing the deity.

Buddhist Temples

Borobudur, a famous Buddhist temple in Indonesia

Buddhist temples are places of worship for followers of Buddhism. They include structures such as stupas, pagodas, and monasteries. The design of a Buddhist temple is intended to symbolize the five elements: fire, air, earth, water, and wisdom.

Greek Temples

The Erechtheion in Athens, Greece

In ancient Greece, temples were built as houses for the gods. Greek temples were typically rectangular and featured columns and a pediment. The most famous Greek temple is the Parthenon in Athens.

Jain Temples

Jain temples are places of worship for followers of Jainism. They are known for their intricate carvings and detailed architecture. Jain temples are often built from marble and are located in India.

Sikh Temples

Sikh temples, known as gurdwaras, are places of worship for followers of Sikhism. The most important gurdwara is the Harmandir Sahib in Amritsar, India, also known as the Golden Temple.

Islamic Mosques

While not traditionally called temples, mosques serve a similar purpose in Islam as places of worship. They are characterized by their domes, minarets, and prayer halls.

Jewish Synagogues

Synagogues are the Jewish equivalent of temples, serving as places of worship and community gathering. The most famous ancient Jewish temple was the Temple in Jerusalem.

Christian Churches

Churches are the Christian places of worship. While not called temples, they serve a similar function. The architecture of churches varies widely across different denominations and cultures.

Notable Temples

Angkor Wat in Cambodia

• Angkor Wat: A temple complex in Cambodia and the largest religious monument in the world.
• Borobudur: A 9th-century Mahayana Buddhist temple in Indonesia.
• Erechtheion: An ancient Greek temple on the Acropolis of Athens.
• Sripuram Temple: A golden temple located in Tamil Nadu, India.
• Guruvayoor Temple: A Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Krishna in Kerala, India.
• Maa Naina Devi Temple: A Hindu temple in Nainital, Uttarakhand, India.
• New Delhi Temple: A modern Hindu temple in New Delhi, India.
• Dakshineswar Temple: A Hindu temple in Kolkata, India, dedicated to Goddess Kali.

Related Pages

• Shrine
• Altar
• Sanctuary
• Holy place