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The five major world religions - John Bellaimey

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World Religion Laws

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World Religion Laws Yr 8 Term 2 Investigation

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Sacred Writings of Islam

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The Quran is the sacred scripture of Islam and is believed to be the unaltered word of God. The Sunna, in its written form hadith, while not scripture, is part of the Islamic canon.

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Sacred Writings of Judaism

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Learn more about text sacred to Jewish culture

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Sacred Writings of Buddhism

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Scriptures & Texts

Oral Tradition

The Buddha's teaching was oral. He taught for 45 years, adapting the teaching to suit the group he was addressing, and there is duplication in the texts. The language he used is understood to be Magadhi.

The Sangha memorized the teachings, and there were group recitations at festivals and special occasions. The teachings were rehearsed and authenticated at the First Council, and were handed down from generation to generation accurately by means of these group recitations.

The oral tradition continues today. The Sangha chant selected texts at ceremonies and sometimes the lay people join in. The chanting is considered to be sacred act, in addition to reminding and teaching the Dhamma.

Pali Canon

The teaching was written down first at the Fourth Council in Sri Lanka about 25 B.C.E. in Pali. The writing was in three sections, Vinaya Pitaka, Sutta Pitaka and Abidhamma Pitaka, following the division at the Councils, and is called the Tipitaka (three baskets).

The Vinaya Pitaka consists of the 227 rules of conduct and discipline applicable to the monastic life of the monks and nuns. It is divided into three parts and, in addition to the rules, give accounts of the circumstances under which a rule was promulgated and exceptions of the rule.

The Sutta Pitaka consists of the main teaching or Dhamma. It is divided into five Nikayas or collections. These are the long teachings (Digha Nikaya), medium length teachings (Majjhima Nikaya), groups of shorter teachings according to common topics (Samyutta Nikaya), a collection arranged to subjects discussed (Angutta Nikaya) and a collection of a variety of shorter texts in verse and prose.

The Abhidamma Pitaka consists of seven books called the higher or further teaching. This is a philosophical analysis and systematization of the teaching and seems to be the scholarly activity of the monks.

The writing was on strips of dried palm leaves cut into rectangles and etched with a metal stylus and rubbed over with carbon ink. A thread was passed through the pages to keep them in order and elaborately painted wooden covers fixed at the ends. This is done even today and is considered to be a meritorious activity.

The Pali Canon has been recited, checked and agreed at the Councils. The whole of it has been translated into English. The Pali Canon was put on a single CD-Rom disk which is published by the American Academy of Religion and Scholar's Press in Atlanta, USA.

Sanskrit Canon

The Buddha advised the monks to teach in the different languages of the people. The oral teaching continued in India in forms of oral Sanskrit. At the Fourth Council in India in the 1st century C.E. the teaching was written down in Sanskrit and was known as the Sanskrit Canon. There were different versions of the Sanskrit Canon, all similar in form and content. Both the Pali and the Sanskrit Canons can be traced to the common original teaching of the Buddha.

The Sanskrit Tripitaka, or Canon, displayed the same three divisions as the Pali Canon, namely:

Vinaya Vaibasha - monastic rules

Sutra vaibasha - the Dharma, the five Agamas corresponded to the five Nikayas of the Pali Canon, and

Abhidharma Vaibasha - the scholarly philosophical analysis which differed from the corresponding section of the Pali Canon.

The Sanskrit Canon does not exist in a complete form in India, but does exist in translations in Chinese, Japanese and Tibetan. Sections of it have been unearthed by archaeologists in Central Asia.

Mahayana Texts

With the growth of the Mahayana, new Sutras were written. The teaching in the Sanskrit Canon was incorporated into the Mahayana teaching. The new Sutras were based on the existing texts but new material was added to incorporate the Mahayana ideas.

Of the many new Sutras written, nine are considered particularly important. Four of the most popular and important are:

Prajnaparamita Sutras (Wisdom, Perfection Sutra), which set out the teachings of Emptiness (Sunyata).

Saddharma Pundarika Sutra (Lotus Sutra), which explains the one-ness of the teachings and praises the Bodhisattva. Mahayana considered this to be the supreme teaching, and it is considered the most important Sutra in China and Japan.

Vimalakirtinirdesa Sutra, which explains that a layperson can become a Bodhisattva.

Sukhavati Sutra teaches that Buddha Amida's land was open to all believers.

Tantric Texts

With the growth of Tantric Buddhism, new Tantric texts came into being dealing with new ideas. They deal with:

1. Kriya tantra - ceremonies and rites,

2. Carya tantra - practical rites,

3. Yoga tantra - practice of yoga,

4. Anuttarayoga tantra - higher mysticism.

Tantric Buddhism and now Tibetan Buddhism (Vajrayana school) emphasize personal teaching and these texts are difficult to read and understand since they need to be complemented by oral teaching.
Examples of tantric texts are:
Hevajra Tantra, Guhya samaja tantra (Union of the triple body of the Buddha) and Kalacakra tantra (Wheel of Time).

Chinese, Korean and Japanese Texts

Buddhism came to China in the 1st century C.E.. The development of Buddhism in China and the recording of the teaching as the Chinese Canon is one of the great achievement s of human civilization.
The Sanskrit texts of different traditions were taken to China and the translation of the texts into Chinese went on from 200 C.E. to about 1200 C.E.. At first non-Chinese, and later Chinese monks, working individually and in teams, carried on the translation work. State translation projects were established. Original Chinese Sutra were added.

The Chinese Tripitaka, or Canon, was compiled and followed the same pattern. There was the Vinaya, Sutra and Abhidharma Pitakas, and it included the original Chinese Sutras. About the 8th century the Chinese invented wood block printing to make multiple copies of the Sutras. The oldest printed book in existence is the Diamond Sutra dated 868 C.E..

The vast Chinese Canon is in the process of being translated into English. The Chinese Tripitaka was translated into Korean about 10th century C.E. and later the Korean Tripitaka was printed. The Chinese Tripitaka was brought to Japan and copied. Sutra coping became an important religious activity in Japan. It was published in the 17th century C.E.. The Chinese Tripitaka and the Pali Tripitaka have been translated into Japanese last century.

Tibetan and Mongolian Canon

The Sanskrit texts were translated into Tibetan and were edited in the 14th century in 333 volumes. The Tibetan literature is in two parts:

Kanjur (Translation of the Word of the Buddha) includes the Vinaya, Sutra and Abhidharma and also the Tantric texts.

Tanjur (Translation of Commentaries) consists of commentaries on the main texts, hymns and also writings on medicine, grammar and so on.

The first edition was published in Beijing in 1410 C.E.. Only a small portion of the Tibetan Canon has been translated into English. The Tibetan Tripitaka was translated into Mongolian in the 18 century C.E..

Commentaries

In addition, as a result of Buddhist study and scholarship, there is a vast amount of commentarial matter published over 2,500 years by Asian scholars in the different countries.

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The Buddhist Society: Scriptures & Texts

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The Buddha's teaching was oral. He taught for 45 years, adapting the teaching to suit the group he was addressing, and there is duplication in the texts. The language he used is understood to be Magadhi. The Sangha memorized the teachings, and there were group recitations at festivals and special occasions.

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Sacred Objects & Writings of Christianity

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Sacred Objects & Writings of Christianity

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Sacred Writings of Christianity

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BIBLE, GOSPELS AND SACRED TEXTS OF CHRISTIANITY

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According to the BBC: The Bible is not just one book, but an entire library, with stories, songs, poetry, letters and history, as well as literature that might more obviously qualify as 'religious'. The Christian Bible has two sections, the Old Testament and the New Testament.

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Leaders of Islam

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The different clerical functions within Islam are filled by a special religious class called the emulamaem, religious scholars with authority in law and doctrine.

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Leaders of Judaism

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Level: Basic

Rabbi: Teacher and decider of matters of religious law

Chazzan: Cantor, who leads congregation in prayer

Gabbai: Volunteer who assists with Torah readings

Kohein: Descendant of Aaron, the original High Priest

Levi: Descendant of the biblical Levites

Rebbe: The leader of a Chasidic community

Tzaddik: A righteous person with spiritual power

There are a number of different people who serve special roles in the Jewish community.

A rabbi is not a priest, neither in the Jewish sense of the term nor in the Christian sense of the term. In the Christian sense of the term, a priest is a person with special authority to perform certain sacred rituals. A rabbi, on the other hand, has no more authority to perform rituals than any other adult male member of the Jewish community. In the Jewish sense of the term, a priest ( kohein) is a descendant of Aaron, charged with performing various rites in the Temple in connection with religious rituals and sacrifices. Although a kohein can be a rabbi, a rabbi is not required to be a kohein.

A rabbi is simply a teacher, a person sufficiently educated in halakhah (Jewish law) and tradition to instruct the community and to answer questions and resolve disputes regarding halakhah. When a person has completed the necessary course of study, he is given a written document known as a semikhah, which confirms his authority to make such decisions.

When I speak generally of things that were said or decided by "the rabbis" or "the sages," I am speaking of matters that have been generally agreed upon by authoritative Jewish scholars over the centuries. When I speak of rabbinical literature, I speak of the writings of the great rabbis on a wide variety of subjects.

Since the destruction of the Temple, the role of the kohanim has diminished, and rabbis have taken over the spiritual leadership of the Jewish community. In this sense, the rabbi has much the same role as a Protestant minister, ministering to the community, leading community religious services and dealing with many of the administrative matters related to the synagogue.

However, it is important to note that the rabbi's status as rabbi does not give him any special authority to conduct religious services. Any Jew sufficiently educated to know what he is doing can lead a religious service, and a service led by such a Jew is every bit as valid as a service led by a rabbi. It is not unusual for a community to be without a rabbi, or for Jewish services to be conducted without a rabbi, or for members of the community to lead all or part of religious services even when a rabbi is available.

A chazzan (cantor, pronounced with that throat-clearing "ch") is the person who leads the congregation in prayer. Any person with good moral character and thorough knowledge of the prayers and melodies can lead the prayer services, and in many synagogues, members of the community lead some or all parts of the prayer service. In smaller congregations, the rabbi often serves as both rabbi and chazzan. However, because music plays such a large role in Jewish religious services, larger congregations usually hire a professional chazzan, a person with both musical skills and training as a religious leader and educator.

Professional chazzans are ordained clergy. One of their most important duties is teaching young people to lead all or part of a Shabbat service and to chant the Torah or Haftarah reading, which is the heart of the bar mitzvah ceremony. But they can also perform many of the pastoral duties once confined to rabbis, such as conducting weddings and funerals, visiting sick congregants, and teaching adult education classes. The rabbi and chazzan work as partners to educate and inspire the congregation.

A gabbai is a lay person who volunteers to perform various duties in connection with Torah readings at religious services. Serving as a gabbai is a great honor, and is bestowed on a person who is thoroughly versed in the Torah and the Torah readings.

A gabbai may do one or more of the following:

choose people who will receive an aliyah (the honor of reciting a blessing over the Torah reading)

read from the Torah

stand next to the person who is reading from the Torah, checking the reader's pronunciation and chanting and correcting any mistakes in the reading

The kohanim are the descendants of Aaron, chosen by G-d at the time of the incident with the Golden Calf to perform certain sacred work, particularly in connection with the animal sacrifices and the rituals related to the Temple. After the destruction of the Temple, the role of the kohanim diminished significantly in favor of the rabbis; however, we continue to keep track of kohein lineage. DNA research supports their claims: a study published in Nature in June 1997 shows that self-identified kohanim in three countries have common elements in the Y-chromosome, indicating that they all have a common male ancestor. For more information about this and other recent genetic studies, see The Cohanim/DNA Connection at Aish.com.

Kohanim are given the first aliyah on Shabbat (i.e., the first opportunity to recite a blessing over the Torah reading), which is considered an honor. They also traditionally recite a blessing over the congregation each Shabbat or at certain times of the year.

The term "Kohein" is the source of the common Jewish surname "Cohen," but not all Cohens are koheins and not all koheins are Cohens. "Katz" is also a common surname for a kohein (it is an acronym of "kohein tzaddik," that is, "righteous priest"), but not all Katzes are koheins.

The entire tribe of Levi was set aside to perform certain duties in connection with the Temple. As with the Kohanim, their importance was drastically diminished with the destruction of the Temple, but we continue to keep track of their lineage. Levites are given the second aliyah on Shabbat (i.e., the second opportunity to recite a blessing over the Torah reading), which is considered an honor. The common Jewish surnames "Levin," "Levine" and "Levitt" are derived from the tribal name "Levi," but not all people with these names are Levites and not all Levites have surnames that suggest the tribal affiliation.

Rebbe is the term for the spiritual master and guide of a Chasidic community. The term is sometimes translated as "Grand Rabbi," but literally it simply means "my rabbi." A rebbe is also considered to be a tzaddik (see below). The position is usually hereditary. A rebbe has the final word over every decision in a Chasid's life.

Outside of the Chasidic community, the term "rebbe" is sometimes used simply to refer to ones own personal rabbi or any rabbi that a person has a close relationship with.

The term "rebbe" should not be confused with the term "reb," which is simply a Yiddish title of respect more or less equivalent to "Mister" in English.

The word " tzaddik" literally means "righteous one." The term refers to a completely righteous individual, and generally implies that the person has spiritual or mystical power. A tzaddik is not necessarily a rebbe or a rabbi, but the rebbe of a Chasidic community is considered to be a tzaddik.

Related Pages

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rabbi priest kohen cohen kohein levite chazzan cantor gabbi rebbe tzaddik tzadik minister judaism jewish judaica jewfaq

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Rabbis, Priests, and Other Religious Functionaries

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Level: Basic Rabbi: Teacher and decider of matters of religious law Chazzan: Cantor, who leads congregation in prayer Gabbai: Volunteer who assists with Torah readings Kohein: Descendant of Aaron, the original High Priest Levi: Descendant of the biblical Levites Rebbe: The leader of a Chasidic community Tzaddik: A righteous person with spiritual power There are a number of different people who serve special roles in the Jewish community.

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Leader of Catholic Faith

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A religious leader is a person who is recognised within a particular religion as having authority within that body. The major religious leader for Christianity is Pope Francis, who was born on the...

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Leaders of Hinduism

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Hinduism is an umbrella term for various religious traditions that originated in India, and now are practiced all around the world, though more than 90 percent of Hindus are found in India. The third largest organized religion in the world, after Christianity and Islam, Hinduism is based on the teachings of the Vedas, ancient scriptures, many of which were brought to India around 1500 B.C.E. by the Aryans. The social stratification of the Aryan society also influenced India, and along with Hinduism, a number of social classes, called castes, simultaneously developed after the Aryans' arrival.

Just as Hinduism includes a variety of religious traditions, it also has a variety of different types of religious leaders. According to the strict interpretation of the caste system, all priests must come from the highest, or Brahman caste. Throughout his life, a person remains in the same caste into which he was born throughout his life, with the possibility to be born into a higher caste at his next reincarnation, which means in many cases, the priesthood is hereditary. Besides the Priests, Hinduism also has ascetic monastic orders, referred to as Sannyasa, members of which are also primarily from the Brahman caste. A third category of religious leaders in Hinduism are asacharya or gurus, teachers of divine personality who have come to the earth to teach by example, and to help ordinary adherents to understand the scriptures.

Since Hinduism includes a variety of gods, religious practices, and religious leaders, each person's faith is an individual matter, and each will choose a form of devotion and a spiritual leader that suits the goals and nature of his faith. All of these religious leaders have a responsibility to guide those who follow them and look to them as examples, to live and teach an upright and holy life.

The Brahman, or priestly, caste in Hinduism

The various religious traditions practiced in India and referred to as Hinduism have their roots in an ancient religion based on the Vedas, that came to India along with the invading Aryans around 1500 B.C.E. One aspect of Hinduism that is based on Aryan society is the caste system, a hierarchy of socioeconomic categories called varnas (colors), made up of priests, warriors and commoners as recorded in the Rigveda.

The Rigveda describes four varna:

Brahmans, the priests and religious officials, teachers of the sacred knowledge of the veda.

Rajanyas, composed of rulers and warriors.

Vaishyas, who were farmers, merchants, traders, and craftmen

People in these three varnas are permitted to study the Vedas and have the possibility to be reborn into a higher caste, eventually reaching enlightenment or Moksha.

Shudras, the lowest caste, were not permitted to study the vedas, and had their own religion and priests.

Later another caste was added:

Untouchables, who performed tasks too dirty for others, including hunters and butchers.

The name for the priestly or Brahman caste, appears to have originally denoted the prayers of the priests, but was eventually adopted to designate the priests themselves. Brahman is often spelled Brahmin to distinguish it from another meaning of Brahman, a term referring to the Hindu concept of ultimate reality, or universal soul.

The Brahman caste has been instructed by the Hindu scriptures to devote themselves to studying the scriptures, pure conduct and spiritual growth. Although the Brahman caste is ranked the highest in the varna system, they are not the richest class. Very often members of the Rajanya caste of rulers and warriors have are wealthier. Originally the Brahman caste was instructed to subsist mainly on alms from the rest of society. In addition to studying the scriptures, Brahmans serve the Hindu society as priests, fulfilling a variety of social and religious functions.

In the Hindu concept of rebirth, the final steps toward Moksha or salvation, can only be made by members of the Brahman class. Some male members of the Brahman class join spiritual orders called Sannyasa and pursue an ascetic life of spiritual pursuit.

Still other members of the Brahman caste find spiritually calling as Gurus, or teachers. Successful Gurus may gather large followings, and sometimes form new branches of Hinduism.

Hindu priests

Hindu priests take care of the temples, lead devotions in worship of Hinduism's many deities, prepare offerings, tend to holy fires, and conduct a number of rituals and ceremonies, many of them rooted deeply in the Vedic tradition. These include rituals and ceremonies pertaining to:

Birth: Ceremonies the well-being of the mother during pregnancy to provide for the healthy development of her child, as well as ceremonies for a safe birth, and for bestowing the child's name.

Birthdays, including special ceremonies for a child's first birthday, and coming of age.

Marriage, including rituals that the priest performs at the family home the day before the wedding ceremony.

Purification ceremonies for removing negative influences from newly purchased homes or other properties.

Death: Last rites ceremonies, and other rituals to help the deceased to pass over peacefully.

Sannyasa, the final stage of the varna system

Hindus who have taken vows to follow spiritual pursuits are referred to as Sannyāsa ( Devanagari: संन्यास), and are members of the renounced order of life within Hinduism. This is considered the topmost and final stage of the varna and ashram systems and is traditionally taken by men at or beyond the age of fifty years old or by young monks who wish to dedicate their entire life towards spiritual pursuits. One within the sannyasa order is known as a sannyasi or sannyasin.
Etymology
in Sanskrit means "renunciation," "abandonment." It is a tripartite compound; , means "collective," ni- means "down" and is from the root , meaning "to throw" or "to put," so a literal translation would be "laying it all down." In dravidian languages, "sanyasi" is pronounced as "sannasi."
The Danda, or holy staff
Sannyasin sometimes carry a 'danda', a holy staff. In the Varnashrama System or Dharma of Sanatana Dharma, the 'danda' (Sanskrit; Devanagari: दंड, lit. stick) is a spiritual attribute and symbol of certain deities such as Bṛhaspati, and holy people carry the danda as a marker of their station.
Categories of sannyasi

There are a number of types of sannyasi. Traditionally there were four types, each with a different degree of religious dedication. More recently, sannyasi are more likely to be divided into just two distinct orders: "ekadanda" (literally single stick) and "tridanda' ( triple rod or stick) monks. Ekadanda monks are part of the Sankaracarya tradition, and tridanda monks are part of the sannyasa discipline followed by various vaishnava traditions, which has been introduced to the west by followers of the reformer Siddhanta Sarasvati. Each of these two orders have their own traditions of austerities, attributes, and expectations.
Lifestyle and goals
The sannyasi lives a celibate life without possessions, practises yoga meditation - or in other traditions, bhakti, or devotional meditation, with prayers to their chosen deity or God. The goal of the Hindu Sannsyasin is moksha (liberation), the conception of which also varies. For the devotion oriented traditions, liberation consists of union with the Divine, while for Yoga oriented traditions, liberation is the experience of the highest samadhi ( enlightenment). For the Advaita tradition, liberation is the removal of all ignorance and realizing oneself as one with the Supreme Brahman. Among the 108 Upanishads of the Muktika, 23 of them are considered Sannyasa Upanishads.

Within the Bhagavad Gita, sannyasa is described by Krishna as follows:

"The giving up of activities that are based on material desire is what great learned men call the renounced order of life [sannyasa]. And giving up the results of all activities is what the wise call renunciation [tyaga]." (18.2)

The term is generally used to denote a particular phase of life. In this phase of life, the person develops vairāgya, or a state of determination and detachment from material life. He renounces all worldly thoughts and desires, and spends the rest of his life in spiritual contemplation. It is the last in the four phases of a man, which are referred to as brahmacharya, grihastha, vanaprastha, and finally sannyasa, as prescribed by Manusmriti for the Dwija castes, in the Hindu system of life. These four stages are not necessarily sequential. One can skip one, two or three ashrams, but can never revert back to an earlier ashrama or phase. Various Hindu traditions allow for a man to renounce the material world from any of the first three stages of life.
Monasticism
Unlike monks in the Western world, whose lives are regulated by a monastery or an abbey and its rules, most Hindu sannyasin are loners and wanderers (parivrājaka). Hindu monasteries (mathas) never have a huge number of monks living under one roof. The monasteries exist primarily for educational purposes and have become centers of pilgrimage for the lay population. Ordination into any Hindu monastic order is purely at the discretion of the individual guru, or teacher, who should himself be an ordained sannyasi within that order. Most traditional Hindu orders do not have women sannyasis, but this situation is undergoing changes in recent times.

The guru-shishya tradition

Another important leadership aspect in Hinduism is the guru-shishya tradition, a spiritual relationship where knowledge is transmitted from a guru (teacher, गुरू) to a 'śiṣya' (disciple, शिष्य) or chela. The nearest word in English for guru is "great." Related words in Sanskrit are Guruttar and Garishth, which have meanings similar to greater and greatest. Hinduism emphasizes the importance of finding a guru who can impart transcendental knowledge, or (vidyā). Such knowledge, whether it be vedic, agamic artistic, architectural, musical or spiritual, is imparted through the developing relationship between the guru and the disciple. It is considered that this relationship, based on the genuineness of the guru, and the respect, commitment, devotion and obedience of the student, is the best way for subtle or advanced knowledge to be conveyed. The student eventually masters the knowledge that the guru embodies.

In Indian culture, a person without a guru or a teacher (acharya) was once looked down on as an orphan or unfortunate one. The word anatha in Sanskrit means "the one without a teacher." An acharya is the giver of gyan (knowledge) in the form of shiksha (instruction). A guru also gives diksha initiation which is the spiritual awakening of the disciple by the grace of the guru. Diksha is also considered to be the procedure of bestowing the divine powers of a guru upon the disciple, through which the disciple progresses continuously along the path to divinity.

Parampara is the word traditionally used in ancient Indian culture for a succession of teachers and disciples. In the parampara system, knowledge (in any field) is believed to be passed down from teacher to student through successive generations. The Sanskrit word literally means an uninterrupted series or succession. Sometimes defined as "the passing down of Vedic knowledge" it is believed to be always entrusted to the teachers, or

An established parampara is often called sampradāya , or school of thought. For example, in Vaishnavism a number of sampradayas are developed following a single acharya. While some argue for freedom of interpretation others maintain that "[al]though an speaks according to the time and circumstance in which he appears, he upholds the original conclusion, or of the Vedic literature."

Historical background

Beginning in the early oral traditions of the Upanishads (c. 2000 B.C.E.), the guru-shishya relationship has evolved into a fundamental component of Hinduism. The term Upanishad derives from the Sanskrit words upa (near), ni (down) and şad (to sit)-so it means "sitting down near" a spiritual teacher to receive instruction. The relationship between Krishna and Arjuna in the Bhagavad Gita portion of the Mahabharata, and between Rama and Hanuman in the Ramayana are examples. In the Upanishads, gurus and shishya appear in a variety of settings (a husband answering questions about immortality, a teenage boy being taught by Yama, the Hindu Religion's Lord of Death, etc.) Sometimes the sages are women, and the instructions may be sought by kings.

In the Vedas, the brahmavidya or knowledge of Brahman is communicated from guru to shishya by oral lore. Although gurus have traditionally come only from the Brahman class, some gurus from lower castes, including Guru Ravidass, have appeared and have become renowned teachers with many followers.

Common characteristics of the guru-shishya relationship

Within the broad spectrum of the Hindu religion, the guru-shishya relationship can be found in numerous variant forms including Tantra. Some common elements in this relationship include:

The establishment of a teacher/student relationship.

A formal recognition of this relationship, generally in a structured initiation ceremony where the guru accepts the initiate as a shishya and also accepts responsibility for the spiritual well-being and progress of the new shishya.

Sometimes this initiation process will include the conveying of specific esoteric wisdom and/or meditation techniques.

Gurudakshina, where the shishya gives a gift to the guru as a token of gratitude, often the only monetary or otherwise fee that the student ever gives. The traditional gift was a cow, a gift of great value, since cows are sacred to Hindus. The tradition has evolved over time, and each student chooses a gift that he feels is appropriate, which may range from a simple piece of fruit to a sizable financial donation toward the guru's work.

Guru Ravidas, Indian Hindu religious leader and founder Satguru of the Ravidasi beliefs, revered by most Hindus as a Sant

Three brahman priests participating in daylong yagna ceremony at Kothavala in Ganeshpuri, India

References

Besant, Annie Wood. The path of discipleship. Adyar, Madras, India: Theosophical Publishing House, (original 1896) 1989. ISBN 9788170591238

Case, Margaret H. Seeing Krishna: the religious world of a Brahman family in Vrindaban. New York: Oxford University Press, 2000. ISBN 9780195130119

Cosgrove, Eugene Milne. The High walk of discipleship 1945. Gardners Books, 2007. ISBN 9780548054888

Goswami, Satsvarupa Dasa. Readings in Vedic Literature: The Tradition Speaks for Itself. Bhaktivedanta Book Trust, 1985, ISBN 0912776889.

Jagannātha Dīkṣita Cipol̲aṇakara, and H. G. Ranade. Brahmatva-mañjarī = Brahmatva-mañjarī : role of the Brahman priest in the Vedic ritual. (Ranade publication series, no. 3.) Poona: H.G. Ranade, 1984. OCLC: 15487624

Barnes, Michael, Margaret Hebblethwaite, and Peter Hebblethwaite. Traditions of spiritual guidance: the guru in Hinduism. London: The Way, 1984. OCLC: 128292184

Pechilis, Karen. The graceful guru: Hindu female gurus in India and the United States. New York: Oxford University Press, 2004. ISBN 9780195145380

Thekkudan, Anto P. Sannyasa And Spiritual Formation in Hinduism. Alwaye, India: St. Thomas Academy for Research, 1988.

Abhishiktananda. The further shore: Sannyasa and the Upanishads, an introduction: two essays. Delhi: I.S.P.C.K., 1975, OCLC: 2929851

External links

All links retrieved December 24, 2017.

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Hinduism is an umbrella term for various religious traditions that originated in India, and now are practiced all around the world, though more than 90 percent of Hindus are found in India. The third largest organized religion in the world, after Christianity and Islam, Hinduism is based on the teachings of the Vedas, ancient scriptures, many of which were brought to India around 1500 B.C.E.

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Leaders of Buddhism

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Leaders of Tibetan Buddhism are found among the many different schools and lineages. The most prominent leaders are the Dalai Lama and the heads of the four schools of Tibetan Buddhism.

Historically, the Dalai Lamas have served as the political leaders of the Tibetan state, and they were also respected as spiritual leaders. But contrary to common misperceptions in the West, religious life in Tibetan Buddhism is not organized heirarchically. For example, unlike the Pope of the Catholic church, who appoints cardinals and bishops to run the affairs of the church, the Dalai Lama does not appoint the heads of monasteries, lineages, or other institutions. In addition, unlike the Pope, the Dalai Lama does not issue decrees or promulgate new teachings that other Buddhists are expected adopt.

The monastic institutions in Tibetan Buddhism are self-organized and depend for their support on their local community. They are usually associated with one of the main schools of Tibetan Buddhism. While all the major schools in Tibet share a core set of teachings, each school also includes a unique teaching lineage that is traced back to particular teachers.

Each of the major schools and lineages have their own unique methods for choosing their leaders. For example, the head of the Gelugpa school is appointed according to a merit-based system, and serves for a term of seven years. The head of the Nyingma school rotates between the leaders of the six Nyingma lineages, with a new head chosen every three years. The head of the Sakya school is traditionally a hereditary position. The head of the Karma Kagyu school, the Karmapa, is selected by finding the rebirth of the previous Karmapa.

Each of the main schools also have their own "study colleges" ( shedras), where they train scholars following a curriculum particular to that school. Some scholars will train at more than one "study college", and hence become proficient in the teachings of multiple schools.

Non-hierarchal structure

Matheui Ricard writes:

...the Buddhist community is not organized in a hierarchical manner as, for example, in the Catholic Church, where priests must account for their behavior to the bishops, cardinals and eventually, at the top of the pyramid, to the Pope himself. Buddhist schools, as these have emerged in different countries are institutionally completely independent of each other. And even within the fold of Tibetan Buddhism, the patriarchs of the four principal schools-while being respected as spiritual authorities-do not intervene in the administration of the monasteries, which function as autonomous entities.

Among Tibetan masters, H.H. the XIVth Dalai Lama is clearly the object of unanimous respect. The teachings and advice that he gives may well be the source of profound inspiration but they are never regarded as commands. No authoritative body goes to check whether a given monastery actually implements his advice.

Heads of the main schools of Tibetan Buddhism

Gelugpa school

The head of the Gelugpa school is given the title of Ganden Tripa. The Ganden Tripa is appointed to this position according to a merit-based system, and serves for a term of seven years.

Karma Kagyu school

The Karma Kagyu school is one of the main lineages within the Kagyu tradition. The head of this school is given the title of Karmapa. The Karmapa serves for life, and a new Karmapa is traditionally selected by finding the rebirth of the previous Karmapa.

Sakya school

The head of the Sakya school is given the title of Sakya Trizin. The Sakya school is unique, in that its head is chosen from a particular hereditary lineage, the descendants of the Khön family.

Nyingmapa school

The head of the Nyingma school rotates between the leaders of the six Nyingmapa lineages, with a new head chosen every three years.

The Nyingmapa school did not have an official leader prior to the formation of the Central Tibetan Administration (the Tibetan government in exile) in 1960. The position of the "Supreme Head" of the Nyingmapas was established at this time in order to represent the school within the Tibetan administration.

Bon tradition

The Bon tradition is a significant minority religion in Tibet, which shares many similarities with Tibetan Buddhism, but also has some distinctive beliefs. The Bon tradition is represented within the Tibetan government in exile by senior teachers within this tradition.

The role of the current Dalai Lama

The 14th Dalai Lama currently lives in exile in India. He has retired from a political role, but he still offers spiritual guidance to the Tibetan Buddhist community.

He is one of the teachers who has mastered the academic teachings of all the major Buddhist lineages in Tibet as well as carrying the transmissions for many practices from different schools that need to be passed on personally from teacher to pupil. He is however not unique in that respect.

The Dalai Lama is a lineage holder in the Gelugpa school, but he is not the head of this lineage. The head of the Gelugpa lineage is the Ganden Tripa.

The Panchen Lama

Together with the Dalai Lamas, the Panchen Lamas are the most important reincarnation lineage in the Gelugpa tradition.

"Traditionally the Dalai Lamas are involved in the recognition of the Panchen Lamas, and the Panchen Lamas in the recognition of the Dalai Lamas. The Panchen Lamas train the young Dalai Lamas, and when the Dalai Lamas come of age they teach the younger incarnation of the Panchen Lamas."

However, the Panchen Lama chosen by the 14th Dalai Lama and his delegation in Tibet, Gedhun Choekyi Nyima, was taken into custody by the Chinese government in 1995, when he was six years old. He has not been seen in public view since. The Chinese government asserts that he is in good health, but have not let anyone confirm that he is alive and well.

After detaining the Dalai Lama's selection for Panchen Lama, the Chinese government chose their own candidate, whom the Dalai Lama does not recognize.

In an interview from April 2018, the Dalai Lama said that according to reliable information Gedhun Choekyi Nyima is still alive and continuing a normal education. He also said of the Chinese selection, Gyancain Norbu, that he has studied well under the guidance of one good teacher. He also says that there can be more than one reincarnation of a lama - only one for the seat, but others that are also reincarnations.

References

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Leaders of Tibetan Buddhism are found among the many different schools and lineages. The most prominent leaders are the Dalai Lama and the heads of the four schools of Tibetan Buddhism. Historically, the Dalai Lamas have served as the political leaders of the Tibetan state, and they were also respected as spiritual leaders.

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Rituals of Buddhism

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Rituals and Practices

Chara Scroope,

Rituals, rites and ceremonies in the Buddhist tradition vary from country to country, and in some cases, regionally within a country. Nonetheless, there are some common practices of Theravāda Buddhists found throughout the world.

Veneration

Veneration refers to a ritual of offering or showing reverence (usually towards the Buddha). There are many different rituals of veneration ranging from a simple offering of flowers or incense as well as chants. Devotional practices may be performed publicly or privately by both individuals or in groups depending on the kind of worship ceremony. Veneration towards the Buddha involves showing respect, meditating on the qualities the Buddha embodied (such as compassion and wisdom) and gift-giving ( dāna). In some countries such as Thailand, veneration to the Buddha practice is instituted by law, whereby insulting or defacing the Buddha is prohibited.

Bowing

The act of bowing is very common throughout Buddhism. In the Theravāda tradition, bowing is done by holding the hands in a prayer position and slightly lowering the forehead towards the hands. For a full bow, one will kneel down, lay their palms on the ground and touch the forehead to the ground between the hands.

Buddhists will often bow towards altars, images or relics of the Buddha, towards monastics, and sometimes towards objects, such as sacred books. The act of bowing is done to express gratitude, humility, respect, veneration and acknowledgment. Bowing occurs both spontaneously and in prescribed situations. For example, some Buddhists may bow because they wish to show respect at that moment. Others may bow out of the expectation to show veneration.

Chanting

In Buddhism, chanting or recitation is usually done to prepare the mind for meditation, reflect on the Buddha's teaching, for ritualistic purposes, or to show veneration. The basis for most chants in the Theravāda tradition is the Pāli canon. Chants are usually in the Pāli language, but sometimes with vernacular translations throughout. Some of the most popular chants are: Homage to the Triple Gem; taking the Five Precepts (for the laity); Salutations to the Buddha, the Dhamma and the Saṅgha, and various blessing chants or teachings from the Buddhist texts.

Protective Rites

In some Theravāda Buddhist countries, there are protective rites performed by monastics for the laity. These rites are often culturally influenced. The most common protective rite is reciting protection sūttas found in Buddhist texts. These sūttas are sometimes chanted during large public rituals, as well as small, private rituals that seek to protect the individual. Instances when one would participate in protective rites include ill health, natural calamity or for blessing a new house. Typically, a monk will chant texts while holding a small piece of string. Eventually the string is tied on the wrist of the person requesting protection. In some places, some Buddhists may also wear tattoos or amulets that contain the ashes of cremated monastics as a form of protection from evil or dangerous forces, though this is a cultural development in certain countries.

Pilgrimage

Pilgrimages are generally seen as a meritorious practice that helps the pilgrim accumulate positive kamma and purify negative kamma. There are many reasons one may undertake a pilgrimage, such as gaining merit ( puñña), to ask for a blessing, or as a result of a vow. Those who die during the pilgrimage are also thought to have a more favourable rebirth.

According to the Mahāparinibbāna Sūtta, the Buddha recommended four pilgrimage sites of major significance, which have become popular destinations for Buddhists worldwide. The four places are linked to the Buddha's life narrative:

His place of birth (Lumbini, Nepal).

The place where he reached enlightenment (Bodhgaya, India).

The place he delivered his first sermon (Sarnath, India).

The place he passed away (Kushinagar, India).

Other popular sites for pilgrimage include places that contain relics of the Buddha, such as the Buddha's tooth relic in Kandy, Sri Lanka.

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Chara Scroope, Rituals, rites and ceremonies in the Buddhist tradition vary from country to country, and in some cases, regionally within a country. Nonetheless, there are some common practices of Theravāda Buddhists found throughout the world. Veneration refers to a ritual of offering or showing reverence (usually towards the Buddha).

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Rituals and Practices

Chara Scroope,

The Sacraments

Many practices of Catholicism relate to the Seven Sacraments. All sacraments are considered to be channels of receiving the grace of God. The Sacraments are categorised into the Sacraments of Initiation ( baptism, the Eucharist, and confirmation), the Sacraments of Healing ( reconciliation and anointing of the sick) and the Sacraments of Vocational Consecration ( matrimony and ordination). Each sacrament contains both a visible ritual and an invisible, spiritual component that connects the receiver to God. Some sacraments are received once, while others require active and ongoing participation.

Baptism

The Sacrament of Baptism is seen as admission into the Catholic Church. The ritual usually occurs when the person is an infant. To perform the ritual, a priest sprinkles or pours holy water on the head of the person being baptised. The priest simultaneously invokes the Holy Trinity with the words, "I baptise you in the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit". It is believed that the old self dies in the waters and a new self emerges, mirroring the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The ritual is usually performed only once in a Catholic's lifetime. A baptism performed by another Christian denomination is usually recognised by the Catholic Church.

Eucharist

The Sacrament of the Eucharist, also known as the 'Holy Communion' or the 'Lord's Supper', is the second sacrament of initiation in the Catholic Church. During the ritual, bread and red wine are sanctified by a member of the clergy. This process of consecrating the bread and wine is believed to change the substances into the body and blood of Jesus Christ. The congregation then shares the sacred meal as a way to commemorate Christ's Last Supper, as well as his crucifixion. Although the Eucharist can be received as often as one wishes, an individual's first communion and their participation in the Eucharist during Easter is considered to be particularly important.

Confirmation

The Sacrament of Confirmation serves to confirm a baptised person in their faith. The ritual is usually received when the person is a young teenager. During a confirmation, a bishop or priest places their hands on the person and offers a prayer, blessing and an anointing of the forehead with holy oil. The religious leader then utters the words, "Be sealed with the gifts of the Holy Spirit". The act of 'sealing' confirms the person is a member of the Church and also welcomes the inner presence of the Holy Spirit.

Reconciliation

The Sacrament of Reconciliation, also known as 'Confession' or 'Penance', is seen as an opportunity for one to renew their faith. During the ritual, sins are privately recounted to a priest, who acts as an administrator in the reconciliation between God and the sinner. It is also an opportunity for self-reflection and to take responsibility for one's actions. Some Catholics may participate in the sacrament based on personal preference. For example, some participate in reconciliation weekly before they receive the Eucharist, whereas others may seek penance during particular seasons such as Lent or Advent.

Anointing of the Sick

The Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick is the Sacrament administered to give strength and comfort to the ill. The ritual is usually performed in a home, a church or a hospital by a priest or bishop. The clergy member typically prays over the person and anoints their head and hands with holy oil. A Catholic may receive the sacrament if they experience a serious illness or injury, awaiting surgery and/or if they are elderly or an ill child who is mature enough to understand the significance of the Sacrament. A person can receive the Sacrament as often as they wish throughout their life. The Sacrament is believed to unite the person's suffering with that of Christ during his crucifixion and death.

Matrimony

A baptised man and baptised woman administer the Sacrament of Matrimony to each other through their lifelong partnership (also known as marriage). The Catholic Church sees marriage as a reflection of the union of Christ, thus considering it to be an indissoluble union. The ritual usually takes place during a religious ceremony, with a cleric who serves as the minister and witness to the mutual consent of the couple. Only scriptures from the Bible can be approved as the vows to be read and recited by the couple during the ceremony.

Ordination

The Sacrament of Ordination, also known as Holy Orders, is a sacrament available to men who are being ordained as bishops, priests or deacons. During the ritual, a prayer and blessing is offered as a bishop places his hands on the head of a man being ordained into the holy order. The ritual grants newly ordained ministers the power to administer the Sacraments depending on their respective order.

Tithes

Tithes refers to the Christian practice of charity whereby a Christian offers a set proportion of their wealth. The act of tithing is usually voluntary and members may offer money, goods or services. In some exceptional cases, one may be required to give a specific percentage of wealth. This depends on the country and the Christian denomination.

Liturgy

In Christianity, there is a general distinction between liturgical ('high church') and non-liturgical ('low church') churches. This is often based on the degree to which a church's worship is elaborate, standardised and whether it contains formalised rituals. Typical practices in liturgical churches include special attire for the clergy, religious symbols, recitation of prayers, observance of a yearly liturgical calendar and performing sacraments (especially the Eucharist).

The Catholic Church is a liturgical faith, meaning that Catholic services (known as Mass) use carefully prescribed rituals. Some of the major characteristics of Catholic liturgical practice include a formal structure to religious ceremonies, specific prayers and spoken texts, iconography, a variety of hymns and the use of physical materials (such as holy oil and incense).

Gestures

A common gesture throughout Catholic worship is the pressing of one's hands together (known as 'folded hands'). This is usually done when in prayer. A variation of folded hands is interlacing the fingers. Some people may also kneel on the ground with their hands pressed together as they pray. These hand gestures and body poses are often used as a way to express one's submission and confidence in God while communicating.

Another common gesture in Catholicism involves making the Sign of the Cross on one's body with a hand accompanied by the words "Father, Son and Holy Spirit". In the Catholic tradition, one starts by touching their forehead along with the word "Father", the lower chest at the mention of the 'Son', and the left shoulder on the word "Holy" and the right shoulder with the word "Spirit", symbolising one's belief and faith in the Holy Trinity. The Sign of the Cross is usually performed before and after prayers, entering or leaving a church, and at the start of Mass.

Genuflection is another common act of worship, which is the physical movement of touching the right knee on the floor while bending the left knee. Someone performing the genuflection typically will make the Sign of the Cross at the same time. Genuflecting is reserved for when one is in front of the Eucharist.

Prayers

There are various ways Catholics show their devotion through prayer and worship. One of the most common prayers is the Lord's Prayer, which is a prayer directed to God. It is also common for prayer to be in the form of psalms, hymns and songs. People may participate in communal prayer at the church, or may perform a private prayer. For example, some Catholics pray before or after partaking in a meal, when one wakes up and before one goes to sleep. Many also consider reading the Bible as a form of prayer. Some people may also wear and use prayer beads during prayer by touching each bead as they recite a prayer.

Weekly Observance

Mass is the primary weekly worship ceremony celebrated by Catholics all over the world. The ceremony is held each Sunday, often in the morning or multiple times a day. Mass can only occur through the exercised authority of a clergy member and is nearly always held in a church. Some churches may hold a service on Saturday evening as an alternative for those who cannot attend on Sunday. Masses can also occur throughout the week (known as daily Mass), albeit shorter in length. The main purpose of Mass is to commemorate Jesus Christ, especially his sacrifice on the cross, and to enter into an intimate fellowship with Christ and other members of the church.

Mass incorporates readings from the Bible, prayer and worship, music, symbols, gestures and sacred objects. The typical structure of Sunday Mass begins with a procession of clergy members and assistants entering the main part of the church. The next part is the Liturgy of the Word, which contains readings from the Bible, a sermon and prayer. The final part is the Liturgy of the Eucharist. This includes the offering of bread and wine at the altar which is consecrated by the priest and consumed by the congregation.

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Chara Scroope, Many practices of Catholicism relate to the Seven Sacraments. All sacraments are considered to be channels of receiving the grace of God. The Sacraments are categorised into the Sacraments of Initiation ( baptism, the Eucharist, and confirmation), the Sacraments of Healing ( reconciliation and anointing of the sick) and the Sacraments of Vocational Consecration ( matrimony and ordination).

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Rituals of Hinduism

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Rituals and Practices

Chara Scroope,

Devotion (Bhakti)

Devotion ( bhakti) refers to both a practice and a path ( mārga) towards salvation. Devotion entails total and unconditional surrender and selfless love towards a personal or chosen deity. In turn, the person becomes a devotee of their chosen god or goddess. The idea of bhakti encompasses all rituals related to worshipping or venerating deities, such as worship ( pūjā) and service ( sevā). Bhakti is a practice open to all Hindus regardless of their caste, life station or gender.

Worship (Pūjā)

Worship ( pūjā) is one of the most central practices in Hinduism. Every form of worship consists of making offerings and receiving blessings, from elaborate temple rituals to simple home practices. The frequency, scale and exact details of a pūjā depend on the nature and location of the deity, the connected texts or ritual manuals, the intention of the participants and the occasion for the worship. Home rituals are usually adopted as part of one's daily routine and performed without the expertise of a priest. Meanwhile, worship conducted at a temple is much more elaborate and may involve multiple people, such as a temple priest.

Some rituals that may occur include 'seeing' the deity ( darśana), and chanting mantras. Other common elements include playing instruments, ringing bells, burning incense, gestures, prostrations, ceremoniously walking around the deity's altar, and offerings (usually food, fresh flowers and light produced from ghee-soaked wicks, otherwise known as ārtī). During a pūjā at a temple, the worshipper may receive sweets or a blessing ( prasāda), a thread tied to their wrist or coloured powder (usually red or orange turmeric) dotted on their forehead.

Fire Sacrifice

The term ' yajña' or ' homa' refers to a ritual sacrifice wherein symbolic materials such as ghee, grains and incense are thrown into a special fire pit. A priest is usually required to help facilitate the fire sacrifice. Fire rituals continue to be an essential part of many Hindu ceremonies and, in some cases, worship ( pūjā).

Mantra

The term ' mantra ' broadly refers to sentences, phrases or words (typically in Sanskrit) that are composed in verse or prose. Mantras are chanted or recited, usually as part of a ritual. They can be spoken loudly, softly or mentally. Mantras are believed to be vested with instrumental, performative or transformative power. There is an enormous variety of mantras. Sometimes mantras can be a way to identify the stream of Hinduism one follows.

Grace (Prasāda)

Grace ( prasāda or prasad) refers to a returned portion of a worshipper's offering, believed to be blessed after the deity's intangible consumption. The prasāda must first be offered to the deity, which then blesses the item. A few moments or hours after offering the prasāda, the worshipper may then receive the blessed prasāda and use it. Common prasāda items are foods such as bananas, coconuts, candies and milk products as well as fresh flowers.

Service (Sevā)

Service ( sevā) is the respectful and regular attention of the needs of someone or something, in acknowledgement of the divine (related to the concept of brahman and ātman). One can do service to enshrined deities ( mūrtis), as well as to one's guru, parents, guests, animals or to the whole community. The specifics of service depend on the kind of entity being served. For example, ' gauseva ' refers to the service to cows. In this context, it is considered auspicious to serve cows by feeding them first thing in the morning.

Service towards a deity usually occurs at least twice a day. Some practices associated with service include bathing an icon, changing the ornaments around the icon, ringing bells to draw the attention of the deity and offering light from wicks soaked in ghee (a practice otherwise known as ārtī). Service is usually conducted by a ritual expert who is regularly present at the temple or shrine.

Astrology (Jyotiṣa)

A common practice in Hinduism is to call upon a jyotiṣī (also spelt jyotishi, who is someone skilled in astrology and astronomy) to help determine auspicious dates and times for festivals, weddings, pilgrimages and the installation of images ( mūrti). Astrology also plays a vital role in determining marriage partners and names of children.

Life Cycle Rites (Saṃskāra)

The term ' saṃskāra ' refers to important life-cycle rites, beginning with one's conception and ending with one's cremation. Though Hindu texts have some prescribed ceremonies and rituals to mark various specific stages of life, the practices of the saṃskāra are diverse. Some families may practise each rite, while others may choose to celebrate the rites most important to them. There are also other factors that determine whether and how a family or individual perform certain rites, such as regional variations and caste. Some of the life-cycle rites are:

Garbhādhāna: This life-cycle rite is related to conception. The rite occurs after menstruation and before or after sexual intercourse. Usually, special mantras are chanted by the couple to help ensure the conception and proper development of a child.

Puṃsavana: The rite of puṃsavana refers to birthing a male child. Puṃsavana occurs during pregnancy, usually during the third or fourth month. Some versions of the ritual include the husband serving his wife food. More formal ceremonies include placing a pounded substance (usually a particular kind of leaf) into the wife's right nostril.

Sīmantonnayana: Literally translated as 'parting the hair', this rite occurs near the end of the pregnancy to assist in the safe delivery of the baby. The rite is similar to a baby shower.

Jātakarman: This rite celebrates the birth of the child. The parents usually observe the event alongside close friends and family.

Nāmakarana: A rite that commemorates the naming of the child, usually one to five weeks after birth. It may be celebrated at the local community's temple in the presence of a priest. After the baby's name is announced, the priest pours holy water on the newborn's head and amrit (also known as aṃṛta, a liquid made of sugar and water considered to be sacred) on the baby's tongue. Astrological factors often determine the name of the child.

Niṣkramaṇa: This rite commemorates the child's first outing into the public. It usually occurs when the child is three to four months old.

Annaprāśana: A rite that celebrates the child's first time eating solid foods, usually at the age of five or six months. Family, close friends and the local community may be invited to the local temple whereby a priest officiates the ceremony.

Cūḍākarman: This rite marks the child's first haircut, usually at the age of one to three years old.

Karṇavedha: A rite that marks the piercing of the child's ears, usually performed when they are a young child. Though not gender-specific, the rite is most common for female children.

Vidyārambha: This rite marks the beginning of the child's education, starting with basic studies in reading. Vidyārambha typically occurs when the child is five years old. The rite may be celebrated at the local temple with other families and children.

Upanayana: The term 'upanayana' refers to the sacred thread ceremony, which marks the transition of the child into the first life station (āśrama) as a student (brahmacārin). During the ceremony, a sacred thread is placed over the left shoulder and under the right arm. Some families only perform the upanayana to male children or may perform a variation of the ritual for female children. The child is also given a special mantra as part of their educational studies.

Vedarāmbha: This rite commemorates the child's study of religious texts (especially the Vedas and the Upaniṣads).

Keśānta: This rite is reserved for males as it marks the first time the boy shaves his beard and commemorates his growth towards manhood.

Samāvartana: This rite commemorates one's completion of the first life station (brahmacārin āśrama). The individual returns home after study and prepares for the next life station as a householder (gṛhastha āśrama). The event is usually commemorated with a ritual bath (snāna).

Vivāha: The Sanskrit word 'vivāha' translates as 'marriage'. This rite marks one's entry into the life station (āśrama) of being a householder (gṛhastha). The ceremony is often elaborate, filled with various rituals and celebrations.

Vānaprastha: This is not necessarily a life-cycle rite, but rather a life station (āśrama) that marks one's entry into the 'forest-dwelling' stage. A couple passes on householder responsibilities to the next generation. Then the couple may reside in a small home next to the main family home. Vānaprastha is similar to a kind of retirement whereby the individual or couple concentrate on religious life and spiritual goals.

Antyeṣṭi: This final life-cycle rite is a funerary rite performed within the first thirteen days following death. There are various rituals practised depending on the individual. All ceremonies include the purification and cremation of the corpse.

Pilgrimage (Tīrthayātrā)

Undertaking pilgrimages is a common practice throughout Hinduism. A pilgrimage can be as simple as a family visiting a major shrine dedicated to their personal deity or as large as thousands of people travelling to multiple places of religious significance. Hindu pilgrimage destinations include temples, shrines, rivers, mountains and various major and minor locations associated with legends and myths. Commonly, the points of convergence between major rivers (for example, the Gaṅgā and Yamunā rivers) are particularly sacred and attract millions of pilgrims. Sacred sites include Ayodhyā, Mathurā, Haridvār and Vārāṇasī, all of which are located in present-day India.

The reasons for undertaking a pilgrimage vary. Hindus may go on a pilgrimage to fulfil a vow or promise, to be part of a community of like-minded devotees, to remove one's previous negative karma, or as part of a spiritual quest. Despite the diversity of locations and intentions, the practices performed at pilgrimage sites are quite similar. These rituals include worship ( pūjā), receiving grace ( prasāda) and other rituals led by priests.

Yoga

The term 'yoga' refers to a wide variety of religious practice. In its broadest sense, 'yoga' refers to a particular method or set of techniques for transforming the individual. It is also used to refer to the practice of controlling the body, senses or breath. Meditation plays a pivotal role in yogic practices. Such methods or techniques are usually followed with the aim of attaining a spiritual goal, such as liberation ( mokṣa).

Just as the meaning of yoga is diverse, so too are the practices. One example is haṭha yoga, which includes ideas of human anatomy composed of channels ( nāḍī) and wheels ( cakra or chakra) that are controlled through postures ( āsana), visualisations and breathing techniques ( prāṇāyāma). Since the 20th century, yoga (particularly haṭha yoga) has gained an enthusiastic following in the West, where it is usually seen as a way to achieve physical and mental health as opposed to attaining more spiritual goals.

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Chara Scroope, Devotion ( bhakti) refers to both a practice and a path ( mārga) towards salvation. Devotion entails total and unconditional surrender and selfless love towards a personal or chosen deity. In turn, the person becomes a devotee of their chosen god or goddess.

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Rituals and Practices

Chara Scroope,

Circumcision (Brit Milah)

Milah is the Hebrew term for 'circumcision' and refers to the initiation ritual for Jewish newborn baby boys. The practice usually takes place during a special ceremony, with the family and community members as witnesses. In the ritual, the eight-day-old baby boy sits on the lap of the person chosen to act as the sandek (a 'companion of the child', usually the grandfather or the family rabbi) while a mohel (the person performing the circumcision) circumcises the baby boy.

After the ceremony, the family typically celebrates with a festive meal. In some branches of Judaism, failure to complete the practice results in the penalty of karet (being cut off from the rest of the Jewish community). A common alternative to circumcision is bris shalom, a naming ceremony that also allows newborn baby girls to partake in initiation.

Religious Adulthood (Bar/Bat Mitzvah)

A bar mitzvah is a Jewish ritual and celebration that commemorates the religious maturation of a Jewish boy on his 13th birthday. Although once exclusively for males, most Jewish traditions have instituted a female-equivalent ceremony to mark the religious adulthood of girls, called bat mitzvah. The rite is performed by having the child called up during a religious service following their 13th birthday to read from the Torah. In some cases, the event may happen at age 12 for girls and she is not called to read from the Torah. After the religious ceremony, there are festivities such as a family social dinner. After the child's bar/bat mitzvah, the child is regarded as personally responsible for fulfilling all their own religious obligations.

Ritual Bath (Mikveh)

In the Jewish tradition, a ritual bath ( mikveh) is a pool of natural water in which one bathes to restore ritual purity. There are various reasons why one would bathe in a mikveh, but these rituals are usually followed by more traditional Jewish people. Males will usually bathe each Friday and before major festivities, while women typically bathe before their wedding and after childbirth. Women in orthodox streams may ritually bathe each month following their monthly menstruation to restore ritual purity.

Prayer (Tefillah)

Jewish prayers ( tefillah) typically entail recitations and contemplations. Some may pray three times a day within specific time ranges ( z'manim); shacharit (morning prayer), mincha (afternoon prayer) and ma'ariv (evening prayer). Traditionally, men typically pray three times a day while women pray one to two times a day depending on the stream of Judaism. When praying, people will often use a Jewish prayer book ( siddur) as additional assistance.

The morning prayer is usually the longest of the three and may include the use of attire. For instance, many wear a tallit (prayer shawl), while some may also wear a kippah (skullcap). In some denominations of Judaism, Jewish males of 13 years and older wear phylacteries on their head ( tefillin shel rosh) and on their left arm ( tefillin shel yad) once every day during their morning prayers. There is also a distinction between personal and communal prayers. The latter requires a minyan.

Avoidance of Writing and Uttering 'God'

In orthodox strands of Judaism, speaking the name(s) of God is generally forbidden. This is often due to the belief that language cannot truly capture the being known as 'God'. The most often used name of God in the Hebrew Bible is 'YHWH', which are the Hebrew letters of 'Yud', 'He', 'Vav', 'He'. Expanded in English as 'Yahweh', this formulation of God's name is prolific throughout the Jewish tradition. Some substitutes used to refer to God verbally include using the word 'Adonai'. Some extend this restriction to the writing of God's names, opting to instead write 'G-d'. By doing so, the name of God will not be defaced or erased should the paper be destroyed.

Charity (Tzedakah)

The term ' tzedakah ' is the Hebrew term for charity. The amount of money or goods donated depends on the tradition of Judaism. Many traditional Jewish homes have a pushke, which is a collection box for coins to be offered as charity to the less fortunate. There are many ways Jewish people act charitably. For example, donating to health care institutions, synagogues, supporting one's children beyond the age when a parent is legally required to or supporting one's ageing parents. The donation does not necessarily need to be offered to Jewish organisations; one may give to non-Jewish causes.

Weekly Observance (Shabbat)

The Hebrew word ' Shabbat' refers to the day of rest and holiness observed by many Jewish people. Shabbat begins on the sunset of Friday and ends at nightfall on the following day. On this day primarily dedicated to rest and spiritual enrichment, Jewish people practice two interrelated commands: to remember ( zachor) and observe ( shamor) Shabbat.

On Shabbat, people may meet at their local synagogue to attend a service and socialise. The structure of the service differs depending on the synagogue. Usually, a portion of the Torah is read, followed by the recitation of prayers, chants or a selection of literature from the prophets (known as Haftarah) led by the cantor ( chazzan). Members of the congregation normally follow along with a prayer book ( siddur). Services may be held in Hebrew, English or a mixture of both. During the Shabbat service, a Jewish child whose 13th birthday has occurred during the previous week will be called to speak a portion of the reading to commemorate their bar/bat mitzvah.

People may also celebrate Shabbat in their homes. For example, two candles dedicated to remembrance and observance are lit before sunset on Friday evening accompanied by stating a blessing or prayer. Thereafter, the family partakes in a shared meal, which is usually prepared before Shabbat.

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Rituals of Islam

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Chara Scroope,

Purification (Tahārah)

Purification of the mind, body and soul is paramount in Islamic rituals. Ritual purity is considered necessary prior to performing acts such as touching the Qur'ān, prayer ( ṣalāh) or embarking on the sacred pilgrimage to Mecca ( ḥajj). Situations that cause one to be impure (known as hadath najis) are divided into minor ( aṣghar) and major ( akbar) impurities. Each category has its own method of purification.

Wuḍu': Purification for minor impurities is wuḍu'. This minor ritual cleanse includes the use of running or pouring water to wash one's face, arms, hands and feet. It is permissible to use sediments from the earth (e.g., sand or fine soil) if running water is not available. Minor impurities that require a wuḍu' include urination, deep sleep and touching one's genitals.

Ghusul: Purification for major impurities is ghusul. This major ritual cleanse is the complete washing in water in a specific sequence. Major impurities that require a ghusul include ejaculation, menstruation, sexual intercourse, or childbirth.

Another important element of purity is the separation of function between the left and right hand. The left hand is reserved for 'impure' or 'dirty' tasks such as washing one's body. The right hand is reserved for 'pure' or 'clean' tasks such as eating. As such, one should not touch another person or pass someone an object with their left hand.

Five Pillars of Islam (Arkān al-Islām al-khamsah)

The Five Pillars of Islam ( arkān al-Islām al-khamsah) refers to the five most important practices in the Muslim faith, namely testimony of faith ( shahādah), daily prayer ( ṣalāh), almsgiving ( zakāh), fasting ( ṣawm) and the sacred pilgrimage to Mecca ( ḥajj). Each 'pillar' is seen as an essential part of Islam. These five practices also act as a framework of a Muslim's life that orientates everyday activities and beliefs towards religious devotion. Some pillars are only expected to be completed once (such as ḥajj), while others require active and ongoing participation (such as prayer).

Testimony of Faith (Shahādah)

The first pillar of Islam, known as shahādah, is one's declaration of their faith in Islam through the statement, "I declare there is no god but God (Allāh), and Muḥammad is his messenger" ( Ashhadu allā ilaha illā Allāh wa anna Muḥamadan rasūlu Allāh). In addition to this statement, Shi'ites add, "'Alī is the Waliy of God" ( Ashhadu anna 'Aliyyan waliyya Allāh). The testimony must be recited at least once in an individual's lifetime and it must be spoken correctly and with a deep intention ( niyyah) and understanding of its meaning.

The shahādah is also spoken on numerous other occasions, albeit with some variation. For example, the father whispers the testimony in the ear of his newborn baby. The testimony is also ideally the last words that a dying Muslim hears or speaks. The shahādah forms the basis of the call to prayer ( ādhān) and is reiterated at the end of each of the daily prayers ( ṣalāh).

Prayer (Ṣalāh)

The second pillar of Islam, known as ṣal āh, is a prayer performed in a prescribed manner multiple times each day. Ṣalāh is a prayer of dedication to God, consisting of specific statements, actions and is conducted at specific times. For Sunnī Muslims, the five set times for prayer are: dawn ( ṣalāt al-fajr), midday ( ṣalāt al- ẓuhur), afternoon ( ṣalāt al-'asr), sunset ( ṣalāt al-maghrib) and evening ( ṣalāt al-'ishā'). Shi'ite Muslims usually pray three times a day, combining the second and third prayer, as well as the fourth and fifth. In Islamic countries or cities with a sizable Muslim population, a call to prayer ( ādhān) can be heard from mosques, thus signifying that it is time for prayer.

Prior to performing a prayer, a Muslim is expected to be ritually pure ( tahārah) by performing a ritual cleanse. Ṣalāh is typically performed on a prayer mat while facing the Ka'bah (holy house) in Mecca, Saudi Arabia. The actual prayer is conducted in units that involve kneeling ( rak'ah), prostrations ( sajdah) and reciting verses from the Qur'ān. At the end of the prayer, the Muslim recites the testimony of faith (shahādah) once again and an invocation of peace ( salām). In addition, a Shi'ite may touch their head on a turbah (clod of clay from Karbalā' in present-day Iraq) when performing their prostrations.

Although collective worship in a mosque is considered to have special merit, individual performance of ṣalāh is permissible and can be in any clean space in one's home or work. Under special circumstances, such as illness or a journey, it is typically acceptable for one to modify or postpone prayer obligations.

Almsgiving (Zakāh)

The third pillar of Islam, known as zakāh, is a donation of a set proportion of one's wealth to others in need. The donation does not refer to charitable giving out of kindness but rather the systematic giving of a certain percentage of goods. Typically, 2.5% of one's accumulated savings above 85 grams of gold, withheld for a lunar year is offered in almsgiving. There are, however, other sorts of goods one may offer, such as farm and mining produce, and animals. Zakāh is obligatory on the individual, even if the government does not mandate zakāh on its population. Some Muslims may also offer an extra voluntary or charitable gift ( ṣadaqah) to those in need.

Literal Fast: Abstaining from food, drink, smoking or sexual relations.

Moral Fast: Avoiding acts such as lying, gossip and anger.

Spiritual Fast: Cutting out distractions in order to intensify one's spiritual practice and experiencing a greater closeness to God.

Fasting (Ṣawm)

The fourth pillar of Islam, known as ṣawm, is fasting during the Islamic month of Ramaḍān. During this time, all adult Muslims are expected to participate in three levels of fasting during the hours between dawn and dusk:

After completing the sunset prayer ( ṣalāt al-maghrib), Muslims usually gather in their homes or local mosques to break their fast with a shared meal called ifṭār. Just before dawn, Muslims will partake in a pre-dawn meal, known as suḥūr, to prepare them for the fast.

A ṣawm can be invalidated by eating or drinking at the wrong time. The lost day can be made up with an extra day of fasting. There are also alternatives for those who cannot fast, such as making up the fast on another day when they are able. If they are unable, then they can expiate by feeding the poor for every day they miss. People under exceptional circumstances are temporarily or permanently exempt from fasting, such as pregnant women, nursing women, elderly, and the physically or mentally ill.

Pilgrimage to Mecca (Ḥajj)

The fifth pillar of Islam, known as ḥajj, is the major pilgrimage to the holy city of Mecca in Saudi Arabia. Every adult Muslim is expected to complete at least once in their lifetime. There are various rituals and practices Muslims perform over a number of days. For instance, once people enter Mecca, they are required to wear iḥrām(two symbolic garments of humility) and walk seven times around the sacred house, called the Ka'bah. Muslims may also visit various sites within and outside Mecca and perform a set of rituals. Once a Muslim has completed the pilgrimage, they may add the title Ḥāj (men) or Ḥājjah (women) to their name.

Millions of people participate in ḥajj each year, although one is exempt from undertaking ḥajj if one is not physically and financially able or if their absence will place hardships on their family. Ḥajj helps unify the Islamic community ( ummah) by bringing followers of diverse backgrounds together for a common religious cause.

Devotional Practices

Some Muslims participate in devotional practices that commemorate God. One major devotional practice is the meditation, remembrance ( dhikr) and recitation of the 99 names of God. Some Muslims use a string of prayer beads ( subḥah) to help keep count when reciting the names of God, while other schools of thought within Islam reject the use of prayer beads. Some Muslims also have devotional practices that commemorate the birthday of Muḥammad.

Weekly Observance

On midday Friday afternoons, the midday prayer ( ṣalāt al-ẓuhur) may be performed as a congregational prayer, known as ṣalāt al-jumu'ah. The special prayer includes two sermons ( khuṭbah) delivered from the pulpit by an imām, along with collective prayer. Men are obligated to attend and participate. Women are permitted to attend if the mosque caters for a separate section for women to attend.

This day is not typically interpreted as a Sabbath (i.e. a day of rest), meaning people are permitted to work on Fridays. Many Muslim countries constitute Friday as part of the weekend to accommodate those who wish to spend time with their family before or after ṣalāt al-jumu'ah.

Recitation

The word qur'ān ('recitation') is a nominal form of the verb qirā'ah meaning 'to recite'. This is a reference to the method the text was transmitted. It is generally believed that the Qur'ān is best communicated through recitation, especially in the Arabic language. Nearly all Muslims memorise specific verses from the Arabic Qur'ān as they are required to be recited during prayer ( ṣalāh). For example, the opening Surah of the Qur'ān ( Surat al-Fātiḥah) is recited multiple times during prayer and on many other occasions. A person who memorises the entire Qur'ān in Arabic is permitted to use the honorary title of Ḥāfiẓ (male) or Ḥāfiẓa (female), which means 'memorisor'.

Blessing Muḥammad (Al-Ṣalātu 'ala al-Nabiy)

A common practice throughout Islam is the blessing of Muḥammad ( al-Ṣalātu 'ala al-Nabiy), which is usually believed to be in accordance with Surah 33:56. This occurs in a variety of forms, including the spoken or written blessing after every instance of Muḥammad's name. This is usually written as 'pbuh', an acronym for 'peace be upon him'.

Baby-Welcoming Ceremony ('Aqīqah)

The baby-welcoming ceremony ( 'aqīqah) is a Muslim rite conducted for newborns. The ceremony is traditionally held on the seventh day after the birth of the child. Several practices are performed during the ceremony, such as shaving the head of the newborn and announcing the name of the baby. In some traditions of Islam, a sheep or goat may be sacrificed to mark the occasion.

Circumcision (Khitān)

Khitān is the Arabic term for male circumcision and refers to the initiation ritual for Muslim newborn baby boys. There is no fixed age for the practice. Rather, the circumcision is performed depending on the region, family and branch of Islam. For example, some baby boys may be circumcised after their 'aqīqah (baby-welcoming ceremony). The circumcision is usually carried out in a medical clinic and the circumcisor is not required to be Muslim.

Honouring Saints

A small number of Muslims part of the Ṣūfī and Shī'á traditions participate in practices which honour saints. An Islamic saint is usually referred to as a waliy, meaning a 'friend' of God. Some Muslims may travel to the tomb of a saint and offer a prayer. Some visit saints in hopes of receiving aid, such as to cure illness, to mediate marital problems or assist in financial difficulties. Another practice of honouring is performed by some Shi'ites from the Ithnā-'ashariy (Twelvers) branch, who undergo pilgrimages to the tombs of the eleven imām s (all but one located in Iraq).

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Chara Scroope, Purification of the mind, body and soul is paramount in Islamic rituals. Ritual purity is considered necessary prior to performing acts such as touching the Qur'ān, prayer ( ṣalāh) or embarking on the sacred pilgrimage to Mecca ( ḥajj).

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... Thinkstock Images/Comstock/Getty Images

Christianity is the world's largest religion, with 2 billion followers. Its most ubiquitous symbol is the cross,. The Bible also remains a universally sacred object for Christians. Beyond the cross and the Bible, some Christians also consider the rosary and holy water to hold religious significance. Although the authenticity of relics like the Shroud of Turin and the fragments of the True Cross have never been proven true scientifically, they still retain a mythological, even mystic, status for many Christians.

Some objects hold a mythological status for Christians. For example, the Shroud of Turin is believed by some to be Jesus Christ's burial garment. The linen, preserved by the Cathedral of San Giovanni Battista, portrays the outline of a male body. It is purported to include images of stigmata (the wounds created on Christ's body from being nailed to the cross), as well as blood stains. Scientific tests have proven inconclusive, yet many Christians believe that this shroud is outlined by the image of Christ.

Like the Shroud of Turin, the True Cross -- the cross believed to have been used for Jesus' crucifixion -- maintains a mythical status. Legend says that Constantine the Great's mother found the True Cross during a pilgrimage to Palestine. Shortly after, fragments of the True Cross were sold. Although Protestant theologians argued that if the fragments were unified into one cross, it would be much too large to have been Jesus' crucifixion cross, Roman Catholic theologians replied by stating that the cross was sacred, which made it possible for it to be infinitely divided.

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What Objects Are Sacred in Christianity? | Synonym

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Thinkstock Images/Comstock/Getty Images Christianity is the world's largest religion, with 2 billion followers. Its most ubiquitous symbol is the cross,. The Bible also remains a universally sacred object for Christians. Beyond the cross and the Bible, some Christians also consider the rosary and holy water to hold religious significance.

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Alison Lake has been a journalist and editor since 2001, working with numerous newspapers and magazines. She has served on the world news desk of the "Washington Post" and contributed to The Atlantic, Foreign Policy Online, Al Jazeera English and GlobalPost.

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What Are Some of the Sacred Objects in Islam? | Synonym

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While the religion of Islam is perhaps not as concerned with sacred objects as its Abrahamic counterparts, Muslims consider some items as sacred, especially Islam's holy book, the Quran. Islam was founded in the seventh century amid a largely pagan culture on the Arabian peninsula.

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Cow related Practices Banana tree The history of the sacred cow The cow remains a protected animal in Hinduism today and Hindus do not eat beef. The cow is honored at least once a year, on Gopastami. On this "Cow Holiday," cows are washed and decorated in the temple and given

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One of the fascinating features of Buddhism are the ritual items. Buddhist ritual items have been in practice for many centuries. Monks and laymen use them almost every day in their religious practices.

These ritual items represent various aspects of Buddhism and its belief system. There are different roles of each item and this factor distinguishes Tibetan Buddhism from other forms of Buddhism.

Moreover, most objects used in Buddhist rituals are ornate and well crafted. The shapes, texture, and colors of these items are unique from each other. Stones and metals including gold feature heavily in these objects.

Read further to know more about the list of top 20 Buddhist ritual items. You can also learn about their features, importance, and other relevant information.

Top 20 Holy Ritual Items of Tibetan Buddhism

Prayer Wheels

Source

A prayer wheel is a hollow cylindrical wheel made from metal, stone, or wood. It is beautifully mounted on a rod handle made of wood or precious metal. The prayer wheels are an integral part of Tibetan Buddhist tradition. Prayer wheels or Mani wheels are Tibetan Buddhist ritual items that are commonly used in meditation.

Revolving these wheels are equivalent to accumulating wisdom, good karma, and keeping away negative energy. You can find a scrolled paper with the handwritten or printed mantra in the inner portion of the hollow cylinder. Spinning prayer wheels has the same effect as reciting the prayers orally, according to the Tibetan Buddhist tradition.

Moreover, there are Om Mani Padme Hum inscriptions in Sanskrit (or Tibetan) script and other Buddhist symbols, on the outside of the wheel. Dakinis, Protectors, and the 8 auspicious symbols Ashtamangala are also present in prayer wheels. At the core of the cylinder is a "Life Tree" made of wood or metal and mantras wrapped around it.

Also Read: 6 Types of Buddhist Prayer Wheels You Should Know

Furthermore, mantras are in thousands or millions in the case of larger prayer wheels, wrapped around this life tree. Each turn of a prayer wheel represents a recitation of the prayer and transports it to heaven. You can find these prayer wheels in pilgrimage paths (koras) where pilgrims spin the wheels to earn merit and help them focus on the journey.

Prayer Beads Mala

Prayer beads are prominent Tibetan Buddhist ritual items. They are also used in many forms of Mahayana Buddhism, with a lesser number of beads that is a divisor of 108. 27-bead mala are common in pure land Buddhism. These shorter mala are also known as "prostration rosaries" because they get held when enumerating repeated prostrations.

In Tibetan Buddhism mala generally has 108 beads. One mala counts as 100 mantras, and the eight extra mantras are then dedicated to all sentient beings of the world. Larger mala use 111 beads, where one mala gets counted as 100 mantras and the 11 additional beads get taken to compensate for errors.

Moreover, Prayer beads are generally made from various types of materials including rudraksha seeds, wood of the tulsi plant, seeds from the Bodhi Tree, animal bone, or the lotus plant. Semi-precious stones like amethyst and carnelian are also used in making these prayer beads.

Prayer Flags

Tibetan prayer flag is an ancient tradition in Buddhism dating back thousands of years to the shamanistic Bon tradition of pre-Buddhist Tibet. Bonpo priests used solid colored cloth flags with their magical symbols to balance the elements.

The 5 basic elements of earth, water, fire, air, and space get represented by 5 colors of yellow, green, red, white, and blue respectively. Buddhists added their texts, ancient symbols, prayers, and mantras in these flags. These helped in generating compassion, wish fulfillment, health, and overcoming natural disasters, diseases, and other obstacles.

Moreover, health and harmony through the balance of the 5 elements is one of the advantages of prayer flags. Colored flags if arranged around a sick patient can harmonize the elements in his body and create a balanced state of physical and mental health. Colored flags were also extensively used to appease the local gods and spirits of the mountains, lakes, valleys, and streams.

Furthermore, these elemental beings could cause natural disasters and diseases if provoked. Hence, balancing the outer elements and appeasing elemental spirits were a way of pacifying nature and invoking the blessings in ancient traditions. Prayer flags generate natural positive energy and bring harmony to everything touched by the wind.

Cymbals or Tingsha

Tibetan tingsha are small cymbals used by Tibetan Buddhist practitioners in prayer and rituals. A leather strap or chain joins two cymbals. These cymbals are then struck together to produce a clear and high pitched tone. They range around 2.5-4 inches in diameter.

Tingsha produces a unique long ringing tone as they are quite thick. Antique tingsha made from bronze alloys produce harmonic overtones. High-quality antique Tingshas have matching cymbals and produce identical or nearly identical tones. Most modern tingsha are not well matched and have a distinctly different tone.

Moreover, antique tingsha are quite expensive and rare to find. Single cymbals get sold with a piece of wood or bone, so the cymbal is functional on its own. Tingsha are different from other cymbals of Indian, Chinese, Nepali, and Turkish origin. Tingsha are today used in prayers, meditation, music, and sound healing therapies. Traditionally, they were only used in Tibetan rituals, as offerings to "hungry ghosts."

Tibetan Ghau

A Ghau is a Tibetan Buddhist Ritual Item that is commonly used as an amulet container or prayer box. Tibetan Ghau pendant is also worn as jewelry along with semi-precious stones. It is also a small container used to keep and carry powerful amuletic objects. Gau box has enough space to hold symbolic Buddhist objects.

They are mostly made of silver but copper, gold, brass, and other metals also go into making. It has incredible designs, mantras, and auspicious symbols on their outer surface. The Ghau box also has a written prayer or Kalachakra (a sacred yantra diagram) in some countries like Nepal, Tibet, Bhutan, and Mongolia.

Moreover, the hand-inscribed prayers and yantras bless us. Tibetan Ghau ornaments also attract blessings and ward off negative energy. Ghau pendants should get worn around the neck and hung close to the heart. They provide protection and attract love and money.

Conch Shell

Conchs are tropical sea snails that produce a large spiral shell. They extract calcium salts from seawater and secrete them in the form of a shell in the natural Fibonacci sequence. Conch produces solid material around the mouth of the shell. The conch shells represent the beautiful pervasive sound of the dharma.

This deep, melodious sound produced from conch shells awakens disciples from ignorance and urges them to work for their own and other's welfare. The conch symbolizes Buddha's teachings and his truth of the dharma, and his call to work for the benefit of others.

Moreover, it is one of eight auspicious symbols in Buddhism and is usually depicted vertically, with a silk ribbon. The conch is also used to call religious assemblies in Tibetan Buddhism. These Tibetan Buddhist ritual items are both a musical instrument and a container for holy water.

Prayer Bell

Prayer bells are an ornate handle forming into a curved bell. The top of the handle is similar to a crown. Complex patterns represent the complexity of religion. There are simple and repetitive patterns in the Bell curve.

The bells are generally rung in various rituals and practices to evoke protection from deities. The bell sounds to symbolize the voice of the Buddha or heavenly law of 'Dharma'. They also represent a call to serenity and calling time for prayers.

Moreover, Tibetan monks use prayer bells to bring order to a group of people for worship. These prayer bells have a significant place in Buddhist rituals and traditions in various cultures.

Brocade Banner (8 Tibetan Symbol)

The Brocade Banner (8 Tibetan Symbol) are beautiful banners with traditional Buddhist iconography. These incredible artworks enhance your home or personal space. These are wall banners that display the Eight Auspicious Symbols of Buddhism. These lucky symbols of Tibetan Buddhism have a great special spiritual significance.

Featured on a golden yellow background, these symbols get embellished with colorful tassels. Parasol, Conch Shell, Golden Fish, Urn, Infinite Knot, Lotus, Flag, and the Wheel are 8 auspicious symbols of Buddhism. These 8 auspicious symbols also adorn sacred Buddhist objects including carved wooden furniture, wall panels, metalwork, and carpets.

Moreover, they are also often drawn on color powders to welcome special guests. These brocade banners found in Buddhist homes generate positivity and ward off negative energy. They also appease the surroundings and offer protection to the worshipers.

Vajra Dorje

Vajras are Buddhist ritual items that denote both "diamond" or "thunderbolt." Diamond has the property of indestructibility and thunderbolt means irresistible force. The Sanskrit word vajra signifies the power of enlightenment and the absolute reality of "emptiness."

It is a type of club with a ribbed spherical head. Vajra is one of the most powerful weapons in the universe, according to mythology. Vajra has special significance in Tibetan Buddhism, and also adopted as a label for Vajrayana Buddhism. The vajra club and the bell (ghanta) are visual icons of Vajrayana Buddhism.

Moreover, the word vajra also leads to various legends and practices in Buddhism. Buddha attained enlightenment in the Vajrasana posture or the lotus position. Vajra Samadhi is the highest concentrated mental state.

Tibetan Door Curtain

Tibetan Door Curtains are beautiful patchworks of Tibetan Auspicious Symbol "Endless Knot". You can find these Tibetan Door Curtains in houses and temples in Tibet and Nepal. The design is a symbol of good fortune and well being. It will provide a positive element to home, office, and surroundings.

Tibetan Door Curtains have sacred symbols and are a beautiful way of having these auspicious symbols in their everyday life. You can hang them on the wall or over the space of a door frame. It is ideal for keeping the door covered while allowing the breeze to enter the house. The eternal sacredness of the symbols on these Tibetan door curtains will spiritually enchant you.

Tibetan Incense

Tibetan incense is an integral Buddhist ritual item. They are generally used for meditation, relaxation, and cleansing of surroundings. The aroma calms and soothes minds or devotees. Hence, these are extensively used in Buddhist temples and monasteries while worshiping Buddha.

Natural ingredients like pure herbs, flowers, spices get used in making these Tibetan incense. 28 different ingredients including the main ingredient, wood is the specialty of Tibetan incense. There is no bamboo stick to hold together like in other incense.

Moreover, small pieces of wood get grounded into a fine powder. Other ingredients are then added into the mixture and then put into a container. After they get dried, Tibetan incense gets made in different shapes and sizes.

Aromatic Pillow

Aromatic pillows contain Himalayan herbs that restore balance based upon ancient healing recipes. Aromatherapy using aromatic herbs have been widely used in Tibet, Nepal, and South Asia for centuries. Nepal has a great resource of herbal plants and products that get handpicked by locals to bring from hillsides to Kathmandu.

Moreover, the herbs get dried slowly in the Himalayan sun. Then gently grounded and blended based on ancient Tibetan therapies and Ayurvedic medicine. The herbs are then enclosed in liners and pure dupion silk or Tibetan brocade pillow covers. These herbs then pass on their aromatic qualities to the user and their emotional well being.

Tibetan Drum (Damaru)

The Damaru is a sacred two-sided drum that remains an essential part of Tibetan Buddhist ritual practice. Acacia (Sengdeng) or Sandalwood along with goat skins are generally used in making Damarus.

Chopin is a long tail or banner associated with Damaru. Human skull Damarus were quite prevalent in Tibet and the Himalayan regions but are now rare. Ornate drums with silver or gold and mounted with gemstones are also found in the marketplace. The sound of the Damaru represents emptiness or shunyata.

According to mythology, one side of the drum represents Lingam, and the other represents the Yoni. The lingam and yoni meeting at the mid-point of the Damaru denotes the creation of the world. Traditionally handcrafted Damarus are generally used in Buddhist practices and rituals.

Tibetan Prayer Scarf or Khata

A Khata or greeting scarf is traditional Tibetan Buddhist Ritual items indicating your respect, and wishes of happiness. When given in farewell, it represents a safe journey and when given to guests it symbolizes welcome.

The Khata symbolizes purity and compassion. White is the main color of Khata and represents the pure heart of the offerer. Besides that, yellow-gold, red, and blue Khata are also available.

Moreover, they are generally placed around the necks of people, and statues and also hung on the top of Thangka paintings. It is also a custom to bring Khata when visiting a shrine, temple, or guru. This is a way of showing gratitude for their kindness and teachings.

Protector Amulet

Protection amulets protect against negative influences and bring good luck and prosperity. These protection amulets are also called Sungkhor and drive away obstacles, obscurations, and other negative forces. One has to wear it correctly, and never put it on the floor for maximum protection.

Each amulet contains a saffron water-dipped mantra that gets dried, folded, and wrapped with silk thread. The particular mandala and mantras are generally written in Tibetan. A Buddhist Lama blesses the protection amulet. These protection amulets can get worn as a pendant, hung in the walls of your home, or put up in a shrine. You can find these protection amulets in various Buddhist shrines and monasteries in the region.

Singing Bowl (Mallet & Cushion)

Singing bowls or Tibetan singing bowls are metal bowls used in meditation and sound healing therapies. It has roots during Buddhist civilization and the idea of sound vibration in this cosmic universe. Singing bowls are generally used for meditation purposes as it produces prolonged soothing vibration.

When rubbed with a wooden or metal mallet, the harmonics and overtones get produced around the edges of the bowl. This brings resonance in the brain wave which is ideal for meditation. You can hold a singing bowl on your left hand and hold a mallet in your right hand.

Recommended: Singing Bowls for Beginners: The Complete Guide

Then, by tapping the bowl you can produce the vibration. You can then move the mallet in the clockwise direction by applying equal pressure to make singing bowls sing in a perfect symphony. A singing bowl cushion is essential to keep bowls stable and to produce incredible sound.

Incense Burner

Incense burners are quite common Buddhist ritual items in Buddhist cultures. The burning of incense serves as an offering to the Buddha to clear the air of evil spirits. These incense sticks are generally placed upright in a large, open container called incense burners.

Buddhist incense burners are of different forms and made from different materials. Most incense burners are deep bowl type with a handle on each side. Bronze, copper are some materials used in making incense burners. Ceramic made ancient censers get used in burial rituals in parts of China.

Moreover, closed censers with smoke holes are also common in East Asia. Form of birds, animals, and mythical creatures, with smoke coming from the creatures' mouths is also found in some incense burners. Incense burners with rectangular blocks and several holes at the top are also frequently found.

Buddha statues are the representations of Lord Buddha and other various deities in Buddhist mythology. Different Buddhist traditions and cultures have different types of statues. For eg: countries like Japan, Burma, Nepal, Korea, India have their style of Buddha statues.

Various Buddha statues have their forms and meanings. Buddhist Pilgrimage sites, shrines, and monasteries are full of incredible Buddha statues. The tradition of making Buddha statues dates back to centuries and continues till today. Buddhist statues are artistic and influenced by Buddhist texts. It depicts Buddhas, bodhisattvas, and other notable Buddhist figures.

Recommended: 9 Most Popular Buddha Statues And Their Meaning

Moreover, there are other historical and mythical characters with physical objects such as vajras, bells in these Buddhist statues. Buddhist art originated on the Indian subcontinent in the 6th to 5th century BCE, following the historical life of Siddhartha Gautama. These art forms evolved and spread throughout Asia and the world.

Meditation Cushion

Meditation cushions can improve your posture and comfort level. The full or half-lotus posture is crucial while sitting in meditation. The traditional Zafu and Zabuton Meditation Cushions work well in the lotus posture.

The Zafu Meditation Cushion is a round pleated cushion that raises the hips and upper body and you can comfortably rest your legs. You should sit on the edge of the zafu cushion so that your thighs slightly slope down. Your hips roll forward creating the natural curve in the spinal column. Assuming a comfortable upright posture is easy to maintain through meditation cushions.

Moreover, the zafu meditation cushions are ideal for people with average height and flexibility. Taller individuals and people with limited flexibility benefit from a higher lift. Hence, these meditation cushions are quite essential during a Buddhist ritual. These are also popular among yoga practitioners and meditation centers.

Tibetan Bracelet

Tibetan bracelets are Buddhist ritual items that protect from negative energy. The knots get tied together during the repetition of the mantras hence charging them with positive energy and protective charm. The Tibetan knot bracelet charges the wearer with positive energy and protects them from all the negativity.

They get tied using the endless knot, which is one of the eight auspicious Buddhism symbols. It represents Samsara, which is the eternal cycle of birth, life, and death. It also symbolizes the power of the mind or perpetual suffering. The teachings of Buddha get embedded in every knot.

Moreover, these Tibetan bracelets bring good luck to the wearer. They can attract more luck and prosperity if worn on the left wrist, according to Tibetan Buddhist traditions. They also stabilize and harmonize the chakras of the human body.

The Final Say

Buddhist ritual items have been extensively used by monks and ordinary people for centuries. They are commonly used every day in religious practices and other religious occasions. Furthermore, these ritual items are an important part of Buddhism and Buddhist culture. I hope this guide on the top 20 Buddhist ritual items will help you in learning about these ancient objects and traditions.

Contact us, if you would like to purchase above top 20 Buddhist ritual items in bulk. We will quote the wholesale cost including fast home delivery shipping.

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Top 20 List Of Buddhist Ritual Items - Handicrafts In Nepal

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One of the fascinating features of Buddhism are the ritual items. Buddhist ritual items have been in practice for many centuries. Monks and laymen use them almost every day in their religious practices. These ritual items represent various aspects of Buddhism and its belief system.

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From challah covers to yahrzeit candles, what they are used for, how they look and where you can find them.

Jewish practice involves a number of special objects, referred to as ritual objects or Judaica. Many people like to use, or even collect, beautifully crafted objects, honoring the concept of hiddur mitzvah, beautification of the mitzvah.

The objects below are listed in alphabetical order. All can be purchased from most Judaica stores and online. (Prefabricated sukkahs and sukkah-building kits are available for purchase, although many people prefer to build their own.) Most of the objects listed - with the exception of the yad, shofar and Torah scroll, which are generally reserved for synagogue use -are commonly found in Jewish homes.

Challah Cover

An opaque cloth, often made from embroidered velvet although any fabric can be used, that is used to cover the challah bread at the outset of the Sabbath meal. It is customary to keep the loaves covered until after the kiddush blessing is recited over wine. Find a challah cover here.

Dreidel

A four-sided spinning top marked with the Hebrew letters Nun, Gimmel, Hey and Shin (Peh in Israel), an acronym for the phrase "A great miracle happened there" ("here" in the Israeli version). Dreidel is a game played during the festival of Hanukkah. Buy dreidels here.

Etrog

A lemon-like fruit known as a citron, the etrog is one of the four species - along with lulav (palm frond), hadas (myrtle) and aravah (willow) - used on the fall festival of Sukkot. Traditionally, the four species are taken together and waved each day of the seven-day festival. A fresh etrog must be purchased each year. Buy an etrog here.

Havdalah Candle

A braided candle with multiple wicks, these candles are used in the ceremony of Havdalah (literally, separation), which marks the transition between the end of the Sabbath and the beginning of a new week. Buy Havdalah candles here.

Kiddush Cup

A wine goblet, often made of silver, used for making Kiddush, a blessing over wine (or grape juice) recited at the beginning of most Jewish holiday meals. Buy a Kiddush cup here.

Kippah

Also called a yarmulke, a kippah is a skullcap worn during Jewish ritual activities, though some observantJews wear one all the time. Traditionally, it was worn only by men, but some women choose to wear one as well. Shop for a kippah here.

Lulav

The frond of a date palm tree, the lulav is the largest of the four species used on the holiday of Sukkot. A fresh lulav must be purchased each year. When the myrtle and willow are combined with the lulav for Sukkot, the three together are referred to as a lulav. Buy a lulav and etrog set here.

Matzah Cover

An opaque cloth used to cover the matzah (unleavened bread) on the Passover seder table. Buy a matzah cover here.

Menorah

Also called a hannukiyah, the Hanukkah menorah is a nine-stemmed candelabra (eight flames plus one "helper candle," known as a shamash) used on that holiday. Distinct from the seven-candled menorah used in the ancient temple in Jerusalem, the hannukiyah symbolizes the miracle of the holiday, when an amount of oil suitable for one day of light burned for eight days. Buy a Hanukkah menorah here.

Mezuzah

A small box containing verses from the Torah written on parchment that is affixed to the right doorpost of Jewish homes. It often displays the Hebrew letter, Shin, the first letter of one of God's names. The practice of affixing a mezuzah derives from Deuteronomy (6:9): "And you shall inscribe them on the doorposts (mezuzot) of our house and on your gates." Buy a mezuzah here.

The centerpiece of the Passover seder table. The seder plate traditionally holds five or six items, each of which symbolizes a part (or multiple parts) of the Passover story. Buy a seder plate here.

Shabbat Candles and Candleholders

Two or three candles that are lit just prior to sunset on Friday to usher in the Sabbath. Any candles can be used, but traditionally they are white and should be large enough to burn for the duration of the Shabbat meal. Many families have special candleholders reserved for their Shabbat candles. Buy Shabbat candles here. Buy Shabbat candlesticks here.

Shofar

A ram's horn blown in synagogue on Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish new year, and at the conclusion of services on Yom Kippur, the day of atonement. In the context of High Holiday services, the shofar serves as a call to repentance. Buy a shofar here.

Siddur (Prayer Book)

A siddur is a Jewish prayer book containing liturgy recited in synagogue services. While they are generally available for anyone to use at synagogue services, many people like to have their own. There are countless editions of the siddur corresponding to different periods in history, the variety of Jewish liturgical traditions and, in modern times, a proliferation of styles and ideologies. Find out how to buy or download a siddur here.

Spice Box

A spice box, often made of silver, is used to hold sweet aromatic plants, besamim in Hebrew, that are sniffed as part of the Havdalah service ending Shabbat. In Ashkenazi homes, cloves are a common choice. Sephardic communities use sprigs of various aromatic plants. Buy a Havdalah set here.

Sukkah

A sukkah is a temporary dwelling with a thatched roof used during the fall festival of Sukkot. Traditionally used for holiday meals, some Jews have the custom to live as much of their lives as possible in a sukkah during the holiday, even sleeping there. Buy a sukkah kit here.

Tallit

A prayer shawl made from wool, cotton or synthetic fibers traditionally worn during morning prayers. In Orthodox communities, a tallit (or tallis, in the Yiddish pronunciation) is traditionally worn by men, though women in non-Orthodox congregations - and sometimes in Orthodox partnership minyans - wear them as well as a matter of personal choice. As with siddurim, tallitot (the plural of tallit) are usually provided and available for use at synagogue services, but many people like to have their own. Buy a tallit here.

Tefillin

Tefillin (phylacteries in English) are two wooden boxes, filled with scriptural verses written on parchment and bound in leather straps, which are affixed to the head and left arm (right arm for the left-handed) during morning prayers, except on Shabbat and festivals. They are worn in fulfillment of the Torah directive to "bind them as a sign upon [their] hands and making them totafot [an enigmatic term] between [their] eyes." Buy tefillin here.

Torah Scroll

A Torah scroll (Sefer Torah in Hebrew) refers to the Five Books of Moses (alternatively the Pentateuch, or Chumash in Hebrew) written on parchment that is read aloud in synagogues on Shabbat and holidays. In the Ashkenazi tradition, the scroll is affixed to two wooden rollers, covered in embroidered velvet and sometimes topped with silver ornaments known as rimonim (Hebrew for pomegranates). In the Sephardic tradition, the entire scroll is sheathed in a hard case.

Tzedakah Box

A tzedakah box, or pushke in Yiddish, is a receptacle for collecting money for charity. Buy a tzedakah box here.

Tzitzit

Tzitzit are the tassels affixed to the four corners of a tallit. They are also sometimes affixed to a four-cornered undergarment that is also called tzitzit (sometimes called tallit katan, or "small tallit."). The practice of wearing tzitzit, traditionally by men, is biblical in origin. Buy tzitzit here.

Yad

A pointer, commonly made of metal or wood, that is used by the synagogue Torah reader to keep place in the scroll. Buy a yad here.

Yahrzeit (or Yizkor) Candle

A yahrzeit is the Hebrew anniversary of a person's death, and a yahrzeit candle is a long-burning candle that is traditionally burned for 24 hours in that person's memory. It is also known as a Yizkor candle; Yizkor is the memorial prayer service recited on several holidays. Buy yahrzeit candles here.

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Jewish Ritual Objects: A Guide | My Jewish Learning

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From challah covers to yahrzeit candles, what they are used for, how they look and where you can find them. Jewish practice involves a number of special objects, referred to as ritual objects or Judaica. Many people like to use, or even collect, beautifully crafted objects, honoring the concept of hiddur mitzvah, beautification of the mitzvah.

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Hindu Symbols

Hinduism is a conglomeration of religious, philosophical, and cultural ideas and practices that originated in India.

Om or Aum:

The Om is one of the most important religious symbols to Hindus. It is made up of three Sanskrit letters. The syllable Om is composed of the three sounds a-u-m (in Sanskrit, the vowels a and u coalesce to become o), which represent several important triads: the three worlds of earth, atmosphere, and heaven; the three major Hindu gods. Is a Hindu sacred sound that is considered the greatest of all mantras.The aum symbol is often found at the head of letters, pendants, enshrined in every Hindu temple and family shrines.

Swastika:

The Swastika symbol which look like the Nazi emblem, holds a great religious significance for the Hindus. Swastika is a pictorial character in the shape of a cross with branches bent at right angles and facing in a clockwise direction. The word SWASTIKA stems from the Sanskrit, an ancient Indian language and means 'being happy'. In India the word is related to things of good fortune because it means being happy. The cause of all life and all manifestations of life is movement.

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Hinduism is a conglomeration of religious, philosophical, and cultural ideas and practices that originated in India. Om or Aum: The Om is one of the most important religious symbols to Hindus. It is made up of three Sanskrit letters.

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Learn about Judaic Symbols, the six-pointed star of David and the Menorah. An easy guide to the most common religious symbols – meaning and history.

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Christian Symbols

Christianity is a monotheistic religion based on the life and teachings of Jesus of Nazareth as presented in the New Testament.

Christian Cross:

The cross symbol, which is today one of the most widely recognised religious symbols in the world is the earliest used Christian symbol. In the most broad sense it symbolizes the religion of Christian. More specifically, it represents and memorializes Christ's death.

Ichthys (fish):

The fish first known use as a Christian religious symbol was sometime within the first three centuries AD. Christians began using the Greek word for "fish" as an anagram/acronym for "Jesus Christ God's Son, Savior."

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Christianity is a monotheistic religion based on the life and teachings of Jesus of Nazareth as presented in the New Testament. Christian Cross: The cross symbol, which is today one of the most widely recognised religious symbols in the world is the earliest used Christian symbol.

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Buddhist Symbols

Buddhism is a religion and philosophy encompassing a variety of traditions, beliefs and practices, largely based on teachings attributed to Siddhartha Gautama, commonly known as the Buddha.

Wheel of Dharma:

The wheel of Dharma is one of the most important religious Buddhist symbols. The symbolises the Buddha's turning the Wheel of Truth or Law. The wheel refers to the story that shortly after the Buddha achieved enlightenment, Brahma came down from heaven and requested the Buddha to teach by offering him a Dharmachakra.

The eight spokes of the wheel symbolize the Noble Eightfold Path set out by the Buddha in his teachings.

The wheel also represents the endless cycle of samsara, or rebirth, which can only be escaped by means of the Buddha's teachings. And some Buddhists regard the the wheel's three basic parts as symbols of the "three trainings" in Buddhist practice: The hub symbolizes moral discipline, which stabilizes the mind. The spokes (usually there are eight) represent wisdom which is applied to defeat ignorance. The rim represents training in concentration, which holds everything else together.

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Buddhism is a religion and philosophy encompassing a variety of traditions, beliefs and practices, largely based on teachings attributed to Siddhartha Gautama, commonly known as the Buddha. Wheel of Dharma: The wheel of Dharma is one of the most important religious Buddhist symbols. The symbolises the Buddha's turning the Wheel of Truth or Law.

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Learn about Islam Symbols and the Star and Cresent. An easy guide to the most common religious symbols – meaning and history.

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Christians worship in churches. It is customary to worship on Sunday, the Sabbath, and on other special festivals and celebrations. Some people, especially monks and nuns, attend church daily. In addition, most Christians pray or worship at home through individual or family devotions.

Church services are most often led by an ordained priest or minister. Often there is also lay (non-ordained minister) leadership in a service. The services usually include participatory prayers and hymns, readings, and a sermon. For most Christians the primary service is the Holy Eucharist, also known as the Holy Communion or the Mass. The center of this service is the sharing of bread and wine, representing Christ's body and blood, which he sacrificed for God's people on earth. The model for the Holy Eucharist is the Last Supper, Jesus' last meal with his disciples. At this meal, Jesus instructed his disciples to share bread and wine together as a way of remembering him.

What do Christian churches look like?

Since Christians were often persecuted in the early days of Christianity, the first churches were simply people's homes, or any other safe gathering place, often indicated by the secret sign of a fish. Just as there are many forms of Christianity, there are many forms of churches today. However, they usually share some features in common. These features tend to date back to churches of the Middle Ages. Churches from this point on tended to be built in the shape of a cross.

Common features include:

Bell tower

Nave or seating area

Altar where the gospel book and the bread and wine for the Eucharist are placed

Pulpit for sermons

Lectern holding a Bible for the readings

Choir loft or seating for the choir

Stained glass windows

Candles, incense burners

A precious cross over or on the altar Baptismal font for baptisms (holds the water)

Churches are generally built with the best the particular community has to offer as a way of showing respect and praising God. Churches are supposed to be inspirations for worship.

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Christians worship in churches. It is customary to worship on Sunday, the Sabbath, and on other special festivals and celebrations. Some people, especially monks and nuns, attend church daily. In addition, most Christians pray or worship at home through individual or family devotions. Church services are most often led by an ordained priest or minister.

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A Hindu place of worship is called a mandir or temple. A temple is dedicated to a particular god or goddess (deity). The temple is the god's home on earth. The most holy part of the temple is an inner shrine called a garbhargriha with a statue to the god or goddess. This inner shrine is under a towering roof called a sikhara. The four corners of the temple then have smaller shrines. The temple is entered through the ardhamandapa or entrance porch. Hindu temples are often decorated with the figures of gods and goddesses. Outside Hindu temples you can often buy gifts or prasad to give the deity honored in the temple.

There is no set schedule for visits to a temple. Worshippers go when they want. When entering a temple, visitors must take off their shoes and women cover their heads to show respect. The ceremony that follows is called puja. It includes prayer and a viewing of the statue of the god or goddess honored. Offerings of fruit, flowers and incense are made to a priest who presents them to the deity. After the deity blesses the gifts they are returned to the worshipper and their heads are marked with a red dot or blessing called a tilaka. Worshippers then circle the inner shrine with their right hand raised in respect to the deity.

It is also very common for Hindus to worship at a home shrine, often as a whole family. There might be a statue or just a picture of the god or goddess. The shrine also contains things which represent the five senses. The idea is to draw the whole person into worship through the image or statue and the senses. The goal is to get beyond self to Brahmin. A bell is also often rung to help focus the mind.

The Ganges River is a very sacred place to Hindus. It is a place to go on pilgrimage to bathe in sacred waters. Hindus also like to have their ashes scattered in the Ganges after cremation.

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A Hindu place of worship is called a mandir or temple. A temple is dedicated to a particular god or goddess (deity). The temple is the god's home on earth. The most holy part of the temple is an inner shrine called a garbhargriha with a statue to the god or goddess.

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Israel itself is a very sacred place to Jewish people. Jews who do not live there try to visit at some point in their lives. In particular, Jerusalem is important because it is the ancient capital of Israel and the site of the original temple.

The Western Wall of the ancient temple remains. This is where the tablets that Moses brought down from Mt. Sinai with the Ten Commandments were stored in a golden box called the Ark of the Covenant. Jewish people make pilgrimages to this wall. It is also called the Wailing Wall because people grieve the destruction of the temple and other persecution of the Jews.

Jewish people worship in synagogues. A synagogue is a center for Jewish life - not just worshipping, but education and community.
Synagogues, of course, vary in style around the world, but all contain certain features:

The Holy Ark with one or more Torah scrolls, covered by curtains.

A six-pointed star, the Star of David, is often found both inside and outside synagogues.

An eternal light in front of the ark, which represents the light which led the Hebrew people through the Sinai and was in the original temple, is kept lit at all times.

A reading table, at the front or in the middle of the sanctuary, sometimes on a stage, or bimah.

A replica of the Ten Commandments.

A special seat for the rabbi.

No images of God, since images are forbidden in the commandments.

Synagogue services are led by a rabbi and usually a cantor, who sings traditional and contemporary melodies. There are prayers, songs, chants and readings, as well as a sermon or discussion by the rabbi or members of the community.

Some Jewish people go to the synagogue daily, some weekly on Shabbat, and some periodically on Shabbat and on special holy days. Some rituals, like the blessing said at the Shabbat meal and the observance of Passover, take place in Jewish homes.

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Israel itself is a very sacred place to Jewish people. Jews who do not live there try to visit at some point in their lives. In particular, Jerusalem is important because it is the ancient capital of Israel and the site of the original temple. The Western Wall of the ancient temple remains.

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Although worshipping in a temple is not essential for worship, Buddhists do visit shrines and temples to pay their respects to Buddha and to meditate with other Buddhists. Going to a worship space is not essential because Buddhism is a way of life, a way to act all of the time. Some Buddhists also have shrines in their homes, allowing practitioners to pray at the most convenient times for them.

Buddhist shrines and temples take many different forms depending on where they are built. The first Buddhist shrines were ten dome-shaped mounds, or studpas, which were built to hold Buddha's ashes. Then more stupas were built to hold sacred items. Some stupas are bell-shaped. Visitors walk around the stupas as a way of paying their respects to the Buddha.

In Japan and China, Buddhists built pagodas as sacred temples. These are towers with various numbers of tiers, usually five. The five tiers represent the five basic elements of the Universe -- earth, water, fire, wind, and emptiness. The height represents reaching out of the physical world towards wisdom.

Buddhists go on pilgrimages to places associated with Buddha's life. These places include his birthplace, Lumbini Grove, the place of enlightenment, Bodh Gaya, the place of his first sermon, Sarnarth, and the place he died, Kusinara.

In addition there are other sacred places, special to the various branches of Buddhism. For example, since the Dalai Lama, the spiritual leader of Tibetan Buddhism, was exiled from Tibet when the Chinese army invaded in 1959, he has been livng in Dharamsala, India. This has become a special place for his followers who go there to study and hope for an audience with the Dalai Lama.

Some Buddhists want to practice Buddhism more strictly and with less distraction. These monks and nuns form communities and live in monasteries. A religious community of Buddhists is called a Sangha. In some countries, young boys and girls spend part of their education living as monks. Buddhists use monasteries as places of refuge for meditation and to refocus on a simpler, less worldly life. Monasteries are important places to Buddhists.

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Although worshipping in a temple is not essential for worship, Buddhists do visit shrines and temples to pay their respects to Buddha and to meditate with other Buddhists. Going to a worship space is not essential because Buddhism is a way of life, a way to act all of the time.

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Although Muslims pray five times daily in their homes or wherever they are, in fact even in the streets, Muslims also worship in mosques.