Hindu Temples in Malaysia
Temples are called aalayam or kovil in Tamil. The word aalayam comes from anma which means 'soul' and layam which means 'a state where one's anma can score sanctuary'. Similarly ko means 'God' and vil or il means 'place'; thus, kovil means 'God's abode'.
A Hindu temple can be a separate structure or a fragment of a building. A feature of most temples is the presence of murtis of the Hindu deity to whom the temple is dedicated. They are usually dedicated to one considerable deity, called the presiding deity, and other subordinate deities associated with the main deity. However, some temples are dedicated to several deities, and some have symbols instead of a murti.
To a Hindu, a temple is more than a residence of cherish. It is a state specially choosen as the site of the Supreme Being as the ruler of the universe. The Hindus has chosen three places to appreciate the Supreme Being: in his heart, in his home, and within a consecrated temple.
The Temple structure itself is conceived of as the universe, and it's principles of construction, build and decoration, as well as the rituals that engage status within it's walls, are all aimed at achieving the sublime.
Architecturally, Hindu temples are an aged art invent born of a sizable religious tradition. Their invent has changed minute over the centuries.
The structure of the temple: -
The hindu temple is constructed to resemble the acquire of a human body lying on its assist with the head of the temple positioned towards the west and the feet towards the east. This composition underlies the symbolic functions of a Hindu temple.
