This question is still doing rounds in the Hindu community and it is still not clear if idol worship is banned in Hinduism? While many say that parts of Isha Upanishad, quotes that those who look for materialistic gains by worshiping idols are pushed into darkness, many Hindus also believe that the verses have been misinterpreted. The verse is as follows: andhaṁ tamaḥ praviśanti ye 'sambhūtim upāsate tato bhūya iva te tamo ya u sambhūtyām ratāḥ Scholar today say that the above lines mean that Hinduism believes in the worship of god that resides in your heart and sole (Manasika Pooja) and the worship of idols is considered to be the least kind of worshiping. What are your views?
The idea of 'idol' is a misunderstanding, and its perpetrated by our two main critic groups, Islam, and Christianity. But it's false. Our stone or metal statues are called murthies, and there are two main beliefs about them, and how they work. The first is that they are symbols of God, so just as a husband might keep a picture of his wife in his wallet when he travels, it's a reminder. The second is that the murthy is a conduit for the inner body of the deity, just as our body is the place for holding the soul.
Well, I personally believe that banned or not, should not even be a topic of debate. The faith of each and every individual differs and it restricted to himself. One should not be concerned if I believe in idol worship or not, as it is my personal choice. If I find inner peace by worshipping mere murthys , then why not. What is wrong in it?
