Pradeep Mahaur

Understanding the Essence: Symbolism, Science, and Spirituality in Hindu Idol Worship In today’s world of increasing scientific skepticism, idol worship is often viewed as irrational or outdated. Many critics label it as blind faith, arguing that praying to stone, wood, or metal statues cannot yield any tangible benefit. Such dismissals, however, arise from a superficial understanding of a deeply symbolic and spiritually transformative practice. For Hindus, idol worship is not just about the object itself but about what it represents, how it engages the mind and soul, and how it connects the individual with the cosmos. Misconceptions and Historical Assaults on Idol Worship Throughout history, particularly during the Muslim invasions in India, idol worship was not just misunderstood; it was violently targeted. Temples were systematically looted and demolished not only for wealth but to break the spiritual and cultural backbone of Hindu society. The objective was twofold: to plunde...