Introduction
Religion has always been an integral aspect of human society. It appeared at the dawn of civilization and helped people to accept some phenomena which could not be explained. The further evolution of society also promoted the development of this phenomenon which acquired new features and peculiarities. Furthermore, the creation of special places of great religious value became the main trend of human civilization as these sites helped people to relax, reconsider their life, and find peace and harmony.
In these regards, one realizes the fact that the location and surroundings of a certain religious object play a crucial life in the creation of the needed atmosphere. This statement could be evidenced by the real-life example.
Setting and surrounding
Hsi Lai Temple is considered a very important religious building that is visited by thousands of people every year. At first gaze, it impresses a common person by its beauty and greatness. It is a mountain monastery in Puente Hills, California. This great Buddhist temple lies on the picturesque hills, and it is taken as part of the surrounding scenery. Moreover, one could admit the perfect balance between the peculiarities of the local landscape and the architectural style of the building.
This fact conditions the great beauty of the given ensemble and improves the image of the temple. Inside it also looks perfect. Being decorated in traditional Buddhist style, it impresses any visitor and makes him/her enjoy its beauty.
Ritual acts
Hsi Lai Temple could also be considered as the important religious center which is visited by numerous adheres of Buddhism, who come from the region and even from other countries. That is why one could easily admit several people who seek solitude and pray their God. They might enjoy the beauty of the building, stand calm trying to find some answers, or participate in various activities. Numerous prayer services are held on Saturdays. They attract Buddhists and tourists who want to discover the peculiarities of the given religion. However, both common people and followers of the given religion are calm and relaxed as the atmosphere of the given place impacts them.
Feelings
Nevertheless, speaking about the atmosphere, it is vital to admit the feeling of peace and serenity which seizes a person. Several important aspects condition the appearance of the given feelings. First, it is the smell of incenses. One could feel it and experience its influence. It helps a person to relax and forget the nagging problems and troubles. Additionally, the sound also has a soothing effect. There are no loud noises or any other unpleasant stressors. A person might enjoy calmness and silence. Finally, numerous Buddhist statues and motifs complete the temples image and contribute to the creation of a special mystical atmosphere that influences a person and makes him/her believe in the great religious value of the given site.
Demography
Furthermore, the given atmosphere and the image of the given temple attracts many people. They could be considered representatives of various social groups as their clothes could evidence their status and the level of income. However, they similarly conduct themselves. It is possible to suppose that social differences do not play a significant role here. Besides, analyzing the demographics, it is crucial to admit that the majority of visitors were males while females could hardly be seen. The same goes for children as all visitors were older than 30 years. Several religious specialists knew all peculiarities of religious services and tried to adhere to them strictly. Yet, they did not try to show other people what to do and how to pray.
Impressions
In general, the given place met my expectations. Having some information about Buddhism and its certain peculiarities, I could imagine the atmosphere and some other aspects of this temple. That is why the majority of the discovered facts did not surprise me. On the contrary, I was glad to admit that the site harmonized with the surrounding scenery perfectly. I think that this aspect is crucial as it impacts visitors and conditions the formation of a certain image.
Additionally, the relaxed and peaceful atmosphere is another concern that contributes to the creation of a certain image and influences all people who come here trying to reconsider their lives or just hoping to find peace. Finally, peoples behavior was another thing that surprised me. They were not aggressive or excited; on the contrary, their manners and conduct were appropriate and helped to enjoy the place.
Conclusion
Altogether, the Hsi Lai Temple could be characterized as a unique religious site. Its beauty and favorable location contribute to the creation of a positive image. Moreover, the temples atmosphere and beauty could not but impact any visitor. Representatives of all social groups and religions could come here to obtain solitude and reconsider their lives as there are numerous opportunities for everyone to join some practice or remain alone for a while. Hsi Lai Temple is a good example of an important religious site that helps people to feel their belonging to a certain religion.