Do Hindus worship idols?
Idol worship is not actually mentioned in the Vedas themselves. The practice of idol worship is recommended in the mythological texts (the Puranas) and may also be linked to Buddhist and Jain influences. It has long been widespread amongst most Hindu traditions and is recognised by them as being a valid and proper method of worship. This is often the aspect of Hinduism viewed with most suspicion by followers of Christianity, Judaism and Islam because of the strong directives in those religions against idol worship. However one needs to bear in mind the fact that Hinduism evolved in a completely different setting to these religions; and even when the prevalent Hindu philosophies became more monotheistic in nature, idol worship was in general integrated into their theologies rather than rejected. For most religious Hindus, idols provide a focus for worship and are a reminder of those facets of the Supreme Being represented by the particular deity. Moreover, if an idol is properly install
