Through religious ritual and practice, people "make sense of the world, reach decisions and organize their lives," which was evident during my visit to the Hindu Temple in Flushing, Queens. ... For example, Lakshmi, Goddess of light, beauty, good fortune and wealth, was assigned these traits after her long history of the endeavors she faced to become this Goddess. ... As described by Durkheim, these elements are sacred objects that make up the most important prayer for Hindus. ... Offering symbolizes giving up ignorance to the deity for spiritual enlightenment; it is blessed with kno...

• Word Count: 1573
• Approx Pages: 6
• Grade Level: Graduate