Temple

A temple is a dedicated place of worship used for spiritual rituals, prayer, and sacrifice.

The term comes from the Latin word *templum*. In Ancient Rome, this word described a sacred precinct defined by an augur, a type of priest. This root is also where we get the word "template," which refers to a plan marked out on the ground. While many religions use the word "temple" in English, others use different names for their sacred buildings. For example, Christians use churches, Muslims use mosques, and Jews use synagogues.

Despite these different names, these buildings often fulfill very similar functions for their followers.

Many believers view a temple as the symbolic "house" or dwelling of one or more deities.

Because of this, specific rituals are performed to maintain the connection between humans and the divine. A special group of clergy, or religious leaders, typically maintains and operates the temple. Access to the building can vary greatly among different faiths. In some traditions, the general public can enter most areas. In others, only the clergy are allowed into the most sacred parts of the main building. Most temples consist of a main structure and a larger precinct that may contain many other buildings.

Hindu temple architecture is incredibly diverse and follows specific regional styles. In the south, the Dravidian style is common, while the Nagara style is found in the north. Other styles include the Hemadpanthi, Bhumija, Solanki, Maratha, and Chalukya styles.

Regardless of the style, the most essential feature is the *garbhagriha*. This is an inner sanctuary or "womb-chamber" that houses the primary *murti*, or cult image, of a deity. Outside the *garbhagriha*, a temple might feature a *shikhara* or *vimana*, which is a tower-like structure. Other elements include *mandapas*, which are congregation halls, and an *antarala*, an antechamber.

Buddhist architecture also includes several distinct types of structures. Early Buddhism utilized monasteries called *viharas*, shrines called *chaityas*, and structures called *stupas* to venerate relics.

A *stupa* is a dome-shaped structure often used for the *Pradakshina* ritual, which involves walking around the object. The *pagoda* is a later evolution of the Indian *stupa*. Buddhist temples are often designed to represent a "pure land" or a pure environment for a Buddha. These buildings, such as meditation halls, are intended to inspire both inner and outer peace.

Other traditions have unique architectural requirements and names. Jain temples, known as *derasars*, vary significantly between North, South, and West India.

Many Jain temples also feature a *manastambha*, which is a "column of honor," placed in front of the entrance. Sikh temples are called *gurdwaras*, meaning "doorway to the Guru."

A *gurdwara* must include the *Guru Granth Sahib*, the holy scripture. These temples are designed to be open to everyone, featuring a *Darbar Sahib* for viewing the Guru and a *Langar* where free food is served. Zoroastrian temples, or fire temples, may be called *Atashkadeh* and contain an eternal flame.

Ancient civilizations developed massive temple complexes with significant economic and social roles. In Mesopotamia, civilizations like the Sumerians and Babylonians built *ziggurats*.

These were terraced step pyramids made of sun-baked bricks. In Ancient Egypt, temples were called *ḥwt-nṯr*, meaning "mansion of a god."

These temples were vital for maintaining *maat*, the ideal order of nature. They were also economic centers; during the New Kingdom period, some estimate temples owned as much as 33% of Egypt's arable land.

Greco-Roman temples also left a lasting mark on history through their monumental designs. Originally built of wood and mud brick, they eventually transitioned to stone and marble.

These temples often sat on raised platforms and featured painted columns in colors like blue, red, and black.

They were typically built facing east to utilize the rising sun. Rituals involved different types of altars, such as square *ouranic* altars for burnt offerings or *bothros* pits for liquid offerings. In Rome, some temples even served civic functions, such as the Temple of Saturn, which held the state treasury in its basement.