Dear seeker,
The answer to this question
lies in understanding the definition of Spiritualty or what is spiritual practice.
Spiritual practice can be simply defined as efforts made daily (for at least
an hour or two) to experience God. Thus, visiting a Holy place or place of worship
can be considered as spiritual practice if it is done for at least an hour or
longer daily, with devotion or yearning to experience God, accompanied by prayers
and proper performance of rituals. Naturally, this definition of spiritual practice
would rule out visiting a place of worship just occasionally as a tradition,
a pleasant pastime, or because one can perceive the higher spiritual purity (sattva component)
there compared to the spiritual impurity (raja-tama)
in the world outside. Your question also highlights the importance of understanding what is
true spiritual practice and the basic
principles of Spirituality and the importance
of increasing awareness of these in society. Then, with awareness and conscious
efforts for spiritual progress, more people can benefit from doing such activities
as visiting a place of worship as spiritual practice. |