Go not to the temple to put flowers upon the feet of God,
First fill your own house with the Fragrance of love...
Go not to the temple to light candles before the altar of God,
First remove the darkness of sin from your heart...
Go not to the temple to bow down your head in prayer,
First learn to bow in humility before your fellowmen...
Go not to the temple to pray on bended knees,
First bend down to lift someone who is down-trodden...
Go not to the temple to ask for forgiveness for your sins,
First forgive from your heart those who have sinned against you.
Rabindranath Tagore
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Look to this day - A poem by Sage
Meaning Of The Poem
This poem, attributed to Indian poet Rabindranath Tagore,
emphasizes the importance of inner transformation and compassionate action over
mere rituals or outward displays of piety.
The poem highlights the importance of personal growth and
inner transformation as essential prerequisites to engaging in religious or
spiritual practices. Here's an expansion on the themes mentioned:
Cultivating Love: Love is often regarded as a fundamental
aspect of many religious and spiritual traditions. The poem emphasizes the
significance of nurturing love within oneself and extending it to others. This
involves not only feeling affection and compassion but also actively expressing
kindness and empathy towards others. By prioritizing love, individuals can
create harmonious relationships and contribute to a more compassionate and
caring world.
Embracing Humility: Humility is a virtue that involves
recognizing one's limitations, acknowledging the contributions of others, and
maintaining an open-minded attitude. In the context of spiritual growth,
humility allows individuals to approach their beliefs and practices with a
sense of openness and receptivity. It encourages them to remain humble before
the mysteries of existence and to learn from diverse perspectives and
experiences. Embracing humility fosters a sense of interconnectedness and
fosters a deeper understanding of one's place in the world.
Practicing Forgiveness: Forgiveness is a transformative act
that liberates individuals from the burden of resentment and grudges. By
letting go of past grievances and embracing forgiveness, individuals can
experience emotional healing and reconciliation. The poem suggests that
forgiveness is not only beneficial for personal well-being but also essential
for nurturing healthy relationships and fostering a sense of peace and harmony
within oneself and the community. Through the practice of forgiveness, individuals
can break free from the cycle of negativity and create space for love and
compassion to flourish.
Each stanza contrasts a traditional religious act with a
corresponding moral or ethical imperative, highlighting the idea that true
spiritual fulfillment comes from embodying principles of kindness, compassion,
and understanding in one's everyday interactions and relationships.