It is a practice based on our mindset image of His embodiment up there and everywhere. When we form an image of Him, then God gets personified.

In this dominant perspective, most people believe in His existence.

This devotion does not lead to His actual study. The buzzword does not establish a logical understanding of Him or Her. Instead, the image and ritual-based god are acknowledged without keen awareness.

When this stereotyped expression of His existence gets invoked, the devotee does not go beyond that commitment; they mistakenly believe and assert to be a “religious person.”

The formal acceptance of God only signifies His residential existence.

But God does not exist only.

Instead, He is a functional institution through which His actuality can be better assessed. In His practical perception, God’s presence is more meaningful, offering rational and pragmatic awareness of Him.

The personified God is worshipped as the centralized controlling authority influencing every moment of our lives.

Moreover, God’s symbolic undertaking creates the fear that He is a punishing Being if one does not believe in His existence. This fear is one reason for His adoration and ceremonial development.

The idolization and ceremonial culture motivate the buildup of rituals and customs which restrict God’s correct image and discernment. His personification causes the existential ritual.

But God is not a ritual.

-by Promod Puri,