What does Darshan refer to in a religious context?

Darshan, in a religious context, specifically refers to the experience of seeing and being seen by the divine. It is an important concept in Hinduism and involves the auspicious visual contact between worshippers and deities, often facilitated by imagery or icons. This interaction is considered a blessing, as it allows individuals to receive the divine's grace and presence. The powerful act of darshan creates a sense of connection and spiritual fulfillment for believers, emphasizing the significance of visual engagement in their devotional practices.

The other options, while relevant to religious practices, do not encapsulate the essence of darshan. Meditation is more about contemplation and introspection, festivals generally celebrate a theme or event within a religious context, and sacred texts are written works that convey religious teachings but do not embody the experiential dimension that darshan represents.