Hinduism
A Hindu temple is a house of god(s). It is a space and structure designed to bring human beings and gods together, infused with symbolism to express the ideas and beliefs of Hinduism. A temple incorporates all elements of Hindu cosmology, the highest spire or dome representing Mount Meru – reminder of the abode of Brahma and the center of spiritual universe, the carvings and iconography symbolically presenting dharma, kama, artha, moksha and karma. The layout, the motifs, the plan and the building process recite ancient rituals, geometric symbolisms, and reflect beliefs and values innate within various schools of Hinduism. Hindu temples are spiritual destinations for many Hindus (not all), as well as landmarks for arts, annual festivals, rite of passage rituals, and community celebrations.
Hindu temples come in many styles, diverse locations, deploy different construction methods and are adapted to different deities and regional beliefs. Two major styles of Hindu temples include the Gopuram style found in south India, and Nagara style found in north India. Other styles include cave, forest and mountain temples. Yet, despite their differences, almost all Hindu temples share certain common architectural principles, core ideas, symbolism and themes.
Am I a Hindu?
The book emphasizes that Hinduism is about the search of true knowledge, search of self, search of answers to all questions, at the end it also says that the day science will be able to answer all questions, all religion like Hinduism will cease to exist. The Book tries to answer questions by quoting similarities with other religion and without trying to show any other religion in a bad light, explains that how the broadness of Religion, which gives freedom to believe in god and at the same time be an atheist, pray the Idols or only the holy scriptures has led to many wrong beliefs about the religion.