Darshan is not looking at God — it is allowing yourself to be seen. A short guide to approaching the sanctum.
The Sanskrit word darshan means 'seeing', but in the temple it means something more reciprocal. We go to see the deity, and in that moment we are also seen. It is a meeting of glances — and that is why the eyes of the murti are always the last part to be consecrated.
Begin before you arrive. Bathe, wear clean and simple clothes, and let your mind settle on the way. Remove your footwear at the entrance and ring the bell gently — its sound is said to clear the space of distraction.
In the sanctum, do not rush. Stand to one side so others may also see. Look first at the feet of the Lord, then slowly raise your eyes to the face. Offer whatever you carry — a flower, a sweet, or simply a quiet thank-you.
Finally, carry the darshan home. Sit for a few minutes in the courtyard before leaving. The peace you feel there is the real prasadam, and it is meant to be shared with everyone you meet afterwards.
॥ ॐ तत् सत् ॥
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