Swadharma

In the early years of the 16th century, a great debate took place within the Russian Orthodox Church about the role of the Church in society.  St. Joseph, Abbot of Volokolamsk, advocated that the Church take an active role in day-to-day life, and wrote the following about the importance of prayer:

“A man can pray in his own room, but he will never pray there as he prays in Church… where the singing of many voices rises united towards God, where all have but one thought and one voice in the unity of love”

While these particular words were uttered in the context of a debate within the Orthodox faith, a similar sentiment can be extended to many religions, and I wanted to consider this statement in a Hindu context.

There are two aspects to Joseph’s quote: the communal synergy, and the sanctity of the mandir or prayer space itself.  The mere presence of fellow worshipers can be inspiring, with everyone united in prayer.  But sometimes I feel that prayer is best done alone, free from social distractions.  To what extent is each of these factors important?  I guess the answer depends on how much one values the cultural and spiritual aspects of religious practice.  What have your personal experiences been in this regard?  Do you feel that prayer is best done at a temple, or in a quiet, secluded area?

Related posts:

1. Go Not To the Temple….
2. Question of the Week: Why pray?
3. Why Pray?: Part II
4. Approaches to Prayer
5. Question of the Week: The Dos and Don’ts of the Prayer Space