Understanding the Symbols and Rituals in Hinduism

chillibreeze writer — Andal Jaganathan

A red dot on the forehead, a red vertical line and three white horizontal lines are marks that adorn devout Hindu foreheads. Intricate patterns at the entrance to a house, a swastika and an Om on the wall, a string of green leaves across the doorframe.

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These are but a few of the outward manifestations of beliefs of a Hindu household. Symbols that fill a Hindu’s existence also give rise to questions about their need and relevance.

On the premise that our ancestors would not have handed down an irrelevant heritage, it is imperative that some meaning and purpose is read into everyday rituals and symbols.

The need for symbols

Whether or not anybody believes in them, symbols are here to stay. If nothing else, it is said that having them around makes one feel at home and it serves as a reminder of one’s roots. Interpreted in a rational manner symbols can become a very useful part of our life.

Recall a to-do list, which is a common feature of everyday life. What does it do? It serves as a reminder of the various tasks that we intend to achieve in a specified period, generally a day. We make such lists keeping some goals in mind. Symbols have a similar function. They are intended to remind us of the highest goal of every human existence – to become one with God.

The relevance of correct interpretations

Not everyone can empathise with a spiritual goal, hence rational interpretations are needed to make symbols and rituals practical and relevant. A correct interpretation and rationalisation of commonly used symbols and traditions makes sense of their existence.

Not everyone can empathise with a spiritual goal; hence, it is essential to rationalise symbols in a way that is more practical and relevant on a relative basis. Religion, followed in the right manner, improves the quality of life. It is only due to misinterpretation of religions that there is fanaticism among people, which is harmful to society.

A rational viewpoint

As children we were taught a prayer which was supposed to be said looking at our palms as soon as we woke up. A small two liner that meant: “All the gods rest in my hands.” What a powerful thought to start the day with. Self reliance is after all the best mantra.

Traditional Hindu families believe in leaving footwear outside the house, a very practical habit. Ask any home maker and she’ll agree. But there is also a spiritual significance here. Slippers are symbolic of a person’s ego. Leaving them outside a temple or home symbolises humility and a cooperative approach.

Lighting of lamps is another significant powerful everyday reminder. Just as the light from the lamp dispels darkness, the very act is supposed to be a reminder of the knowledge of higher values in life that dispel darkness from within and help one become a better person. It is done in most homes twice a day. Interaction with the world leaves you vulnerable to pitfalls, hence the double reminder to become a better person.

It is a Hindu tradition to offer eatables that no one else has partaken of to the deity, at the time of worship. A thanksgiving to the almighty whose grace enables you to have food everyday. A Hindu is supposed to actually invoke the Lord before eating. This prayer is a thanksgiving to all those who have helped him appease his hunger.

The Hindu greeting – the namaste – said with palms together, signifies “I bow to the divine within you.” It is to serve as a reminder of the divine aspect within each of us. The best thought for excellent interpersonal relationships. After all how would you interact with God?

If all the symbols and rituals in practice can be interpreted and understood then the true richness of the Hindu heritage would be revealed.

It is said that Hinduism is a way of life not just a religion. The many symbols used in Hinduism are a practical way of reinforcing powerful positive thoughts. The purpose of religion is to guide a human being towards God. The means it offers is prayer. Prayer is not just a few words said in a particular manner or a ritual performed in a specified way. Prayer is a full time awareness of God and symbols and rituals play an important part in prayer. By rationalising symbols and rituals we can make optimum use of them and appreciate a unique and meaningful heritage.

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—About our writer: Andal writes for chillibreeze.

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