Informative

Why do Some Religions Worship Idols?

In Mesopotamia (modern-day Iraq), 6500 years ago, people used to pray to the idols. The construction of pyramids and colossal statues for deities like Ra and Osiris is well-documented in Egyptian history, going back to around 3000 BCE. In the ancient Indus Valley, archaeologists have discovered terracotta figurines and seals that suggest the worship of deities. This dates back to around 2500 BCE. These are a few examples where our ancestors used to pray to idols.

Idol worship is when people pray to and show respect to statues, pictures, or symbols that they believe represent gods or spirits. These objects are like a way to connect with their idea of a higher power. It’s a common practice in many religions. Let’s take a look at it in the blog.

In the 12th chapter, Bhakti Yoga of Bhagwad Geeta, Lord Shri Krishna says,

क्लेशोऽधिकतरस्तेषामव्यक्तासक्तचेतसाम् || अव्यक्ता हि गतिर्दु:खं देहवद्भिरवाप्यते || 5||

Kleśho Dhikataras Teṣhām Avyaktāsakta-Chetasām ||

 Avyaktā Hi Gatir Duḥkhaṁ Dehavadbhir Avāpyate ||

That means, for those whose minds are attached to the unmanifest, the path of realization is full of tribulations. Worship of the unmanifest is exceedingly difficult for embodied beings.

Imagine there are two ways to connect with something bigger than ourselves, like a higher power or a spiritual force. One way is by focusing on something that’s not visible or doesn’t have a clear form (we call it the “unmanifest”). The other way is by focusing on something you can see or feel, like a statue or an image (we call it the “manifest”).

Focusing on something they can see or feel, like a statue or an image, is much more manageable for many people. It’s like having a guide or a map to follow on their spiritual path. This is where idol worship comes in. In Sanatana culture, many scriptures mention step-by-step processes in detail, such as how to consecrate, pray, and connect with them. These consecrated idols that are usually kept in the temples or altars are called Vigrahas.

How can Idol worship make Spirituality Easy for You?

Getting Closer to Something Bigger 

 Do you know how you might have a favorite toy or a lucky charm? Well, talking to these Vigrahas is kind of like that, but on a spiritual level. It helps people feel closer to what they believe is a higher power, like a guardian angel or a wise god. It’s like having a reminder that this powerful and caring force is watching over them.

Staying Super Focused 

 Imagine you’re trying to meditate or pray, and your mind is all over the place. That’s when these Vigrahas come in handy. They act like a super helpful anchor, helping you stay on track. It’s like having a friend to hold your hand and guide you through your thoughts and feelings.

Comfort in Tough Times

 Just like hugging your favorite stuffed animal when you’re feeling sad, looking at these pious Vigrahas can provide emotional support. When life gets rough, seeing them can be like a warm, reassuring hug. It gives people hope and makes them feel better.

Finding Answers and Direction

 Have you ever wished for some guidance when you’re facing a big decision? Well, that’s where Vigrahas can come into play. Devotees believe that by talking to them, they can get answers to their questions or figure out the right path in life. It’s like having a wise advisor who is always ready to help.

Keeping Traditions Alive

 Do you know how your family might have special traditions or stories that get passed down from generation to generation? Well, for some, talking to these Vigrahas is a way to keep those traditions alive. It’s like saying, “We believe in this, just like our ancestors did, and it’s important to us.”

Celebrating Beauty

 Sometimes, these Vigrahas are incredibly beautiful, like pieces of art. People can admire their beauty and the hard work that went into creating them. It’s like having a beautiful painting or sculpture in your home that brings you joy, mental peace, and powerful emotional support.

Coming Together as a Community: In some religions like Sanatana Dharma, folks gather to pray to these Vigrahas in temples or during special events. It’s a bit like going to a big family reunion. It creates a strong sense of togetherness and shared beliefs.

So, for the followers of Abrahamic religions, while it might seem a bit unusual, talking to and praying to objects can have a lot of meaning and benefits for those who do it. It’s like having a friend, a guide, and a piece of your heritage all in one.

Even though plenty of literature is available on spiritual practices, it is highly recommended that one learn these methods under the supervision of a Guru or an expert. Everyone has unique spirituality, personality, and experiences. One solution cannot fit all. Therefore, seeking guidance from spiritual experts is imperative to get that unique mantra, meditation, and spiritual method crafted exclusively for you for the spiritual awakening you seek. And hence, we recommend you practice these interpretations and practices mentioned above under the guidance of an expert. 

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