Question


Why are non-Hindus not allowed inside temples?

Answer


Temples are sacred places and there are certain rules to be followed before entering temple. These rules are known as Pancha Shuddhi (5 kinds of purity). According to this 5 types of shuddhi is needed before going to temple:

  1. Sharira (bathe body)
  2. Ahara (Satvic food)
  3. Manas (mind)
  4. Vaak (Speech)
  5. Karma (deed)

Not just a non-hindu, even hindus are not allowed inside temples if they does not posses one of this shuddhi.

I have seen such boards in some temples and this could be mainly due to their(non-hindus) way of living. Non-hindus often consume non-vegetarian food and in their living culture they are not required to bath before going to their prayer centers. As no one is allowed inside temples without pancha shuddhi, some temples are taking precautions by using such boards. This is not questioning anyone's freedom/ right to equality, it just points out that people are required to respect other's culture and should not intervene in their freedom of worship if they are not ready to follow set of rules within hindu religion.

There are many other temples which does not have these kinds of boards and allow non-hindus(by birth) for prayers (not for excursion). But in such temples also people are required to follow pancha shuddhi.

For example, in famous Sree Ayyappa temple, Sabarimala, non-hindus are allowed for the pilgrimage. See this quote from the website.

Certain customs are to be strictly observed if one has to undertake a pilgrimage to Sabarimala. A pilgrim attending the Mandalapooja should observe austerities for 41 days. During this period, the pilgrim should abstain himself from non vegetarian food and carnal pleasures. Pilgrims set out in groups under a leader, and each carry a cloth bundle called Irumudi kettu containing traditional offerings. Unlike certain Hindu temples, Sabarimala temple has no restrictions of caste or creed. The temple is open to males of all age groups and to women who have either passed their fertility age and those before reaching the stage of puberty.

Also see this link. It emphasize the need to follow the customs and there is no restriction if they are followed.

Actually we need to be hindus by our karma (like Swami Vivekanda mentioned about Brahmin), in that sense everyone following the customs can visit these temples.


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