My Pilgrimage and Protocol in Temples

Someone named Kaustubh Butala once shared with me a simple but powerful protocol for visiting ancient temples—many of these are also Maha Samadhi sites of Siddhas and Rishis, where these great beings dissolved their bodies into light. Many such sacred spots lie quietly within temple complexes where the subtle body of Siddhas still exist.

Below is the approach I have followed during my recent pilgrimage through temples of India.

Temples as Living Energy Fields
Temples are not prayer halls; they are living, vibrant fields of energy—portals. The idol (mūrti) serves as a focal point, like a vessel that holds and radiates this energy. Black granite is often used because it absorbs and retains subtle energy exceptionally well. But the true power is not limited to the idol; the idol simply marks the center of the energetic field. Perhaps long ago this field of energy encompassed the whole town and protected it.

I could feel the circumference of the energy field when I entered a temple.

The Protocol

1. Circumambulate (Pradakṣiṇā)
   First, walk around the temple or shrine. This helps you attune to the energy, stabilize your breath, and quiet the mind—like going around a pillar with higher vibrations until your own frequency aligns.

2. Reverence at the Main Shrine
   Approach the main deity with reverence. Acknowledge the Supreme Consciousness represented there, and offer gratitude to the Gurus and Siddhas who consecrated the space for us to reap the benefits. It’s good to offer something—light a diya, request an archana, or make a small contribution. Giving opens the heart.

3. Sit and Absorb
   Find a place within the hall or courtyard to sit quietly and meditate. This is the true purpose of temples—to absorb the subtle vibrations and allow the inner being to awaken.

4. Rituals and Energetic Maintenance
   The high vibrations of the Mantras, the light of the lamp, and the sound of bells help keep the field charged. Together they invoke the descent of divine consciousness. If you are sensitive, you may perceive higher realms or subtle light during meditation.

5. Acknowledge All Sacred Beings
   As you enter, do not ignore the other divine presences in your path—Nandi, the vāhanas, and guardian deities. Each plays a role in the temple’s energetic architecture.

6. Honor All Deities Before Leaving
   After visiting the main deity, offer obeisance to the other deities around the temple.

7. Give Before You Depart
   As you leave, share alms with the poor or offer something simple, like biscuits. Giving at the moment of departure completes the cycle of receiving and offering.

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