While the external symbols of a national faith may be destroyed, nothing can destroy the fountains of that faith.

According to our shastras, Somnath is one of the twelve Jyotir lingas. Naturally, therefore, this temple of Lord Somnath had become the symbol of the wealth, the faith and the culture of India. Its feet were washed by the ocean whilst its dome kissed the Heavens.
In its vast quadrangle, innumerable devotees gathered from all the regions and provinces of India to place at the feet of Lord Shankara their boundless devotion and love and their great wealth.
In those days, it was the centre of the faith and the wealth of this country. The fame of its unparalleled glory and wealth had spread to distant regions and countries. Unfortunately, during several centuries it had to suffer calamity after calamity. Again and again it was desecrated and demolished.
But, while the external symbols of a national faith may be destroyed, nothing can destroy the fountains of that faith. It was for this reason that in spite of having numerous calamities there always remained in the hearts of the Indian people, an undying faith and respect for this Temple.
It ever was their determination to build this temple again every time it was destroyed and they went on doing so time after time.
It is desirable for all of us to realise the great secret of spiritual faith -- that to have a glimpse of God or Truth, it is not necessary for all men to follow one and only one path.
On the contrary, if man devotes himself with all love and faith to the service of his fellow human beings and if he dedicates himself to the establishment of the kingdom of love and beauty on this earth, he would surely be able to realise God whatever may be the manner of his worship.

(Contd...)