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Significance of Vimana

Vimana, according to various traditions, refers to both celestial vehicles and significant architectural elements within Hindu temples. In Jainism, it denotes mythical flying machines and the heavenly palaces of deities, while in Vastushastra, it describes the architectural elements defining the vertical axis of temples and the main temple towers. Vimana is integral to temple design, representing sacred buildings and styles throughout Indian architecture, showcasing its pivotal role in both spiritual and structural contexts within Hindu culture.1
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Synonyms: Flying machine, Aerial vehicle, Flying chariot, Celestial vehicle

In Dutch: Vimana; In German: Vimana; In Finnish: Vimana; In Spanish: Vimana; In Swedish: Vimana; In Malay: Vimana; In French: Vimana

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Hindu concept of 'Vimana'

Hinduism Books

Vimana in Hinduism signifies celestial chariots for divine beings, architectural features of temples, and advanced transportation methods, embodying both spiritual and structural significance in temple design and mythology.

Significance in Vastushastra (architecture):
Vastushastra Books

From: Vastu-shastra (Introduction to Indian architecture)

(1) A type of architectural structure specified as part of royal constructions in Jataka descriptions.[1] (2) The architectural structure above the sanctum of a Hindu temple, also known as the inner shrine.[2] (3) Architectural elements associated with Hindu temples that define the vertical axis of the temple, similar in function to components of the stupa.[3] (4) Types of celestial vehicles used by the Gods, which inspired the architectural design of temples.[4] (5) A structure attributed to South Indian temples, specifically the tower or vaulted roof that is part of the temple's architecture.[5]

From: Samarangana-sutradhara (Summary)

(1) A prominent type of Hindu temple architecture that is referenced multiple times in the series of temple types derived from the Vairaja.[6]

Vastushastra refers to the ancient Indian science (shastra) of architecture (vastu), dealing with topics such architecture, sculpture, town-building, fort building and various other constructions. Vastu also deals with the philosophy of the architectural relation with the cosmic universe.

Significance in Purana and Itihasa (epic history):
Purana Books

From: Devi Bhagavata Purana

(1) Means of conveyance used by various Devas, indicating their divine status and modes of travel.[7] (2) The aerial vehicles or chariots used by the Devas to travel.[8] (3) Vimanas are described as celestial chariots used by divine beings for transportation.[9] (4) The celestial vehicle that King Harishcandra uses to ascend to the Heavens; it signifies the rewards of his good deeds.[10]

From: Mahabharata (English)

(1) A celestial vehicle, mentioned as another realm compared to Rasatala.[11]

The Purana refers to Sanskrit literature preserving ancient India鈥檚 vast cultural history, including historical legends, religious ceremonies, various arts and sciences. The eighteen mahapuranas total over 400,000 shlokas (metrical couplets) and date to at least several centuries BCE.

Significance in Dharmashastra (religious law):
Dharmashastra Books

From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi

(1) Flying chariots or celestial vehicles belonging to divine beings, often described in ancient texts.[12]

Dharmashastra contains the instructions (shastra) regarding religious conduct of livelihood (dharma), ceremonies, jurisprudence (study of law) and more. It is categorized as smriti, an important and authoritative selection of books dealing with the Hindu lifestyle.

Significance in Vaishnavism (Vaishava dharma):
Vaishnavism Books

From: Garga Samhita (English)

(1) A term used to describe the sad or gloomy disposition of Gopadevata.[13]

Vaishnava or vaishnavism (vaishnavism) represents a tradition of Hinduism worshipping Vishnu as the supreme Lord. Similar to the Shaktism and Shaivism traditions, Vaishnavism also developed as an individual movement, famous for its exposition of the dashavatara (鈥榯en avatars of Vishnu鈥�).

Jain concept of 'Vimana'

Jainism Books

In Jainism, Vimana signifies both the divine vehicles or palaces of deities, highlighting their heavenly lifestyles, and mythical flying machines linked to literature, showcasing a blend of spiritual and cultural significance.

Significance in Jainism (general):

From: Bhagavati-sutra (Viyaha-pannatti)

(1) Flying machines or vehicles often associated with mythology and literature that are discussed in the chapters.[14] (2) The heavenly vehicles or palaces of deities, with specific descriptions given in the context of their divine seating and lifestyle.[15]

Jainism is an Indian religion of Dharma whose doctrine revolves around harmlessness (ahimsa) towards every living being. The two major branches (Digambara and Svetambara) of Jainism stimulate self-control (or, shramana, 鈥榮elf-reliance鈥�) and spiritual development through a path of peace for the soul to progess to the ultimate goal.

The concept of Vimana in local and regional sources

History Books

Vimana is a prominent element of Indian temple architecture, specifically the towering structure above the sanctum, characterized by intricate carvings and serving as a key architectural feature of temples.

Significance in India history and geography:

From: Triveni Journal

(1) The main structure of the temple, often pyramidal, and its height emphasizes the temple's grandeur and aesthetic value, visible from a considerable distance.[16] (2) The towering structure above the sanctum of a temple, illustrating a significant feature of Indian temple architecture.[17] (3) The towering structure above the sanctum of a temple, often adorned with intricate carvings, integral to temple architecture.[18]