My first real pooja participation!

[ThusArtThou 0]

Hello:

5/13/6 I went to the Hindu temple I have been frequenting and was very lucky; it was very busy and prayer and activities were all around. I took the opportunity to join fellow worshippers in prayer, I admit I prayed to myself in English and am only beginning to remember basic mantras...I watched devotees (all Indian I appear to be the only caucasian at the temple) during a ceremony we lined up, were given each a sip of water in the right hand, an almond again taken in the right hand then eaten, then each had a large brass cap-like item held over the head as the priest blessed us individually (I assume). We then each placed dots of red on our forehead and departed.

I was exhilrated and very pleased feeling energized by my participation. I am learning what each step meant but am unable to find out what the symbolic crowning with the brass object meant.

I will admit I do not feel welcome but do not feel unwelcome yet- and no one there has made any effort to talk to me about what each ritual means. This is primarily a Rama temple (Sanatana Dharma) and a follower there told me "we worship all the Gods".

Unfortunately for me, I don't know yet how to get under the guidance of a guru.

What is the meaning of the capping? Do any of you have suggestions to make this transition of mine smoother? Is there anything else I can do at this point? I have books and websites galore bookmarked, I listen to mantras and study them and their meanings daily. I perform prayers daily and am practicing meditation as directed by a temple priest.

Thank you for your support!

[Jahnava Nitai Das 2]

The "helmet" is known as shatari. On the top of the "helmet" are the shoes of the deity, so one is placing the Lord's feet on one's head. This came about because one devotee wanted to touch the Lord, but due to his caste he wasn't able to perform direct worship in the temple. As a result the Lord allowed for his shoes to be placed in this manner so everyone could come in contact with him.

[Guest guest]

 

I will admit I do not feel welcome but do not feel unwelcome yet

by your statement: "I was exhilrated and very pleased feeling energized by my participation" it is clear the gods have welcomed you to their temple. And that's the most important thing.

 

Once you make friends/aquaintances there you will feel more comfortable I'm sure.

 

As more westerners convert to Sanatana Dharma, Hindu temples in America are going to see an increase in devotees of all races. So the indians should be welcoming new devotees and converts with open arms. Doing everything they can to make everyone feel comfortable.

 

- White Hindu as well.