Please read the following carefully. Let's not embarrass ourselves!!
Behaving with Cultural Sensitivity and Respect
| Etiquette at unfamiliar places of worship is a combination of basic good manners,
cultural sensitivity, and respect for others. Good manners is important both as an
expression of respect for the religious communities involved, and also because visitors
will be taken as representatives of the USD community. |
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These guidelines are to help you feel more comfortable in unfamiliar settings and avoid
offending your hosts.
Points to Remember
- First, don't worry too much!. The people you meet at these places of
worship are good and understanding people. As Americans, they understand Americans,
and will forgive small mistakes.
- If you are unsure about what in appropriate in an unfamiliar cultural situation, it is
perfectly acceptable to ask. It will not hurt to say "May I ask you some
questions?" Of course, careful observation also helps.
- It is very important to dress appropriately and modestly. Shorts, T-shirts, and other overly casual
clothing should be completely avoided. Clothes should always be modest. For most situations, legs and upper arms should be
covered. For women, long skirts are often preferable to pants. Ask your
instructor for details about particular sites.
- Note that, for Hindu temples and related sites, the standard of dress is typically a bit less formal than at mainline Christian and Jewish places of worship. "Sunday best" is typically not required.
- In both Hindu settings, you will typically have to sit cross-legged on the
floor, so again, dress appropriately. Try to retain a posture indicating attentiveness.
Note that pointing one's feet toward the altar or teacher is regarded as
disrespectful, so if possible, avoid extending your legs. If you need to stretch
your legs, be sure to point your feet away from other people and sacred objects. Under no
circumstances should you assume a lying posture, which again would be considered
disrespectful. These points may sound excessively restrictive, but they are
important.
- Avoid smoking, public displays of affection, loud talking, boisterous laughter, physical
contact, and imposing on your host's hospitality. Be mindful of body language, especially
around members of the opposite sex.
- If you are invited to stay for food, try to observe the manners of your hosts. A
prayer may be chanted before the meal or tea, so it is best to wait until others begin.
Wasting food may be frowned upon, so try to take just as much as you can eat.
- If you wish, you may bring flowers or fruit as an offering to Hindu temples.
In almost all temples, small offerings slipped into a donation into offering
box are welcome. but not required.
Thanks for reading these points carefully and keeping them in mind!
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