Hinduism

One thing I've observed in this India sojourn is that Hindus are spiritual people. On my way into town I walk past a temple. It is not very large, and has an open-air style. It is painted cream and white with a terracotta tile roof and a tile floor. Inside is the shrine which contains the figure of the deity which is maybe a foot in height. At certain times the doors of the shrine are open and the hanging oil lamps are lit. Devotees go into the temple to look at the deity and to pray. There is not much noise - the people just look quietly with their hands folded.

I particularly enjoyed my week of Hindu studies. I learned some valuable concepts that will help me during our outreach part of the DTS. I don't want to come across as a foreigner proclaiming a foreign religion that requires someone to totally change their community in order to convert.

In particular I learned about gurus, Hindu holy men who have forsaken worldly pursuits in order to acheive peace and enlightenment. A "guru" is someone who leads you from darkness into light. Ring any bells? Read John 8:12 and you'll see what I mean. http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=john%208:12&version=31