World Religion 101

Continuing what is feeling like an intensive world religion course--interactive, complete with field trips and interviews. From Hindu temples, Muslim mosques, and Buddhist gompas, we made our way to the state of Punjab--home of the Sikhs. A religion born at the fault line of the Hindu and Muslim faiths which (I find) is a beautiful fusion of the two faiths. And for the field trip portion of our studies...we went to the Golden Temple, the holiest Sikh site and thus a major pilgrimage destination. We visited at various times of the day and night and always found a constant stream of pilgrims making their way along the marble walkway surrounding the large water tank from which golden temple radiates its beauty. During the day, the sun radiates off the golden dome and at night water reflections ripple across it. There is a constant stream of pilgrims bathing in the tank before entering the temple, while their holy scripture is read over loud speakers throughout the entire day. The beauty of it is that all are welcome, from all religions and faiths, to worship God equally.