Experiences and Emotion
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Seeing (ٲśԲ)
ٲśԲ (also spelt as darshan) refers to an auspicious ‘seeing’ or ‘viewing’ of a deity (fully present in an image or icon, which is known as a ūپ), a sacred place (especially pilgrimage sites) or a sacred person (e.g. one’s guru or a ). The sacred deity, place or person ‘gives’ 岹śԲ while the devotee ‘receives’ the auspicious sight. Usually, devotees seek this auspicious vision to receive a blessing, and it is common to hear someone say they are going to a temple ‘for darshan’. This process usually includes devotees using various sounds and scents to help evoke the deity to be present in the image followed by worship (ū) and receiving 岹śԲ.
Meditation
The word ‘meditation’ is a generic term in English to describe various practices of mental concentration and contemplation. There are various kinds of meditative techniques and practices. Which kind of meditation an individual performs depends on various factors such as spiritual goals, sectarian affiliation and their guru. Types of meditative practices include mindfulness of the present moment, visualisation, concentration or recollection of a particular object, chanting mantras, observing or controlling the breath, and mindfully moving the body. The traditional posture for meditation is seated with legs crossed, back straight and hands resting in the lap (the 'lotus posture').
Liberation (Mokṣa)
In Hinduism, the ultimate goal is usually understood as seeking the liberation (ǰṣa) of the individual’s soul (ٳ) from the cycle of rebirth. Traditions differ as to the specific content or experience of liberation. For example, some believe that liberation allows for the ٳ to merge or unify with brahman. Others believe it is the absence from negative experiences, such as ignorance or suffering. It is also understood as a positive state of existence, like bliss.
Becoming Hindu
Generally speaking, Hinduism does not have formal processes for conversion into the general community. If and when it occurs, it is usually on a philosophical or spiritual level. One can join a formal religious order if they wish. In this instance, the initiation (īṣā) is a rite of purification, which involves transforming one’s personality and way of life. Some sects may incorporate ancient ideas and customs in the initiation process. Most sects or religious orders agree that the authority to initiate new converts or members into the community belongs to a qualified spiritual guide (i.e. a guru). Initiates are usually given a devotional or spiritual name, which replaces their given name and surname.