Essay name: Devi Tantra, Mantra, Yantra (study)
Author:
Srider Basudevan Iyer
Affiliation: University of Mumbai / Sanskrit, University Department
This essay studies the history of Devi (the Goddess) in relation with worship using Tantra, Yantra and Mantra. The study explores the concept of the 'Female Principle' or Goddess, examining her role and significance in ancient Indian society.
Chapter 1 - Introduction
30 (of 55)
External source: Shodhganga (Repository of Indian theses)
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chapter 1. Introduction Vedic mantras. 30 30 Vedic mantras stand as the means to the ends of a sacrificial
act. The purpose of a mantra is to remind of a ritual act ie.
Prayoga-samavet盲rtha-sm膩rakah mantrah'
66 67
11 And thus every single act is accompanied by a mantra thus,
establishing a one to one correspondence between a mantra and an act
but, there are some exceptions. A single mantra may be connected
with many acts too. Mantras are said to be instrumental in the
accomplishment of a sacrificial act69. Emphasis is laid to the correct an
and complete pronunciation of the mantras in addition to the correct
degree of loudness, pitch, proper place 70. Apart from these, certain
specially prescribed portions are prescribed to be uttered at a stretch
and in a single breath. Such application of mantras will bring about
effects that are stated to be 'ineffable' and 'beyond the power of
language'.
Categories of the Vedic Mantras
In the Nirukta" Y膩ska, enumerates nine categories of a mantra.
They are -
66 Laugaksi Bhaskara. Arthasamgraha, Para. 92.
67 Apasstambha srauta sutra, 24.1.38.
68 Ibid. 24.1.44.
69 Asvalayana srauta sutra 1.1.21; Mi. 3,8.21.
70 Ibid. 24.1.8-15.
71 Yaska, Nirukta (7.1.),
