Attention all dog lovers! Whether you’re a frequent traveler or someone who sets out on a spiritual journey to holy places in India, there’s something that you’ve likely noticed on every trip—a dog. It doesn’t matter if you’re on the ghats of Varanasi, climbing up to the temple of Vaishno Devi, or visiting your local neighborhood mandir, there always seems to be a loyal dogs hanging around. They’re either lying peacefully in the temple courtyard, following devotees around, or casually observing the rush. But have you ever wondered why?
Dogs and temples might seem like an odd combination, this curious connection that has been happening for generations. Sure, it’s easy to call that dog is just seeking shelter and food; but what if there’s something more to this?
PEACEFUL TEMPLE VIBE
Temples are often places of peace and kindness. People go to pray, meditate, and seek blessings, creating a calm atmosphere that even animals can sense. Dogs, being intuitive creatures, are naturally drawn to environments that are relaxed and positive. Temples, unlike the chaos of city streets, provide them with a safe space where they won’t be shooed away. Plus, there’s always the bonus of people leaving behind prasad, fruits, or other offerings, which make for a tasty snack!
SPIRITUAL CONNECTION?
Now, here’s where things get really interesting. In Indian mythology, dogs have been associated with spirituality. For example, in Hinduism, Bhairava, an incarnation of Lord Shiva, is always depicted with a dog by his side. The dog is seen as a protector and a faithful companion, guarding the temple of the deity. There are even festivals like Kukur Tihar in Nepal, where dogs are honored and worshipped for their loyalty. So, maybe these temple dogs aren’t just looking for food or shelter—they could have a much deeper, spiritual connection to these places.
DOGS OUTSIDE HEAVEN?
Now, let’s take a point from the Bible. In the Book of Revelation, it says, “Outside are the dogs.” Some understand this to mean that dogs are kept outside the gates of heaven. But what if that’s not a bad thing? What if dogs, who are known for their loyalty and protective nature, are guarding the gates of heaven or, in this case, Earth’s holy places? Maybe they’re not meant to enter heaven, but to stay here on Earth and watch over the spaces where humans seek the divine. Sounds like a pretty noble job for our four-legged friends, doesn’t it?
THE TEMPLE DOGS SQUAD
So, next time you’re visiting a temple, take a moment to notice the dogs around you. They’re not just random strays—they might be there for a reason. Whether they’re hanging out for the peaceful vibe, enjoying the kindness of devotees, or serving a spiritual purpose, these temple dogs seem to have found their own version of heaven on Earth. And honestly, who can blame them?
If you think about it, dogs are known to be man’s best friend, but perhaps they’re also a temple’s best friend, silently keeping watch over sacred spaces, providing company to pilgrims, and offering their loyalty in ways we may not fully understand.
So, next time you find yourself on a temple yatra, don’t just pass by these furry visitors. Give them a little pat on the head or maybe even offer them a piece of prasad—they might just be more divine than we think!
