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 4 - Worship and The Worshipper
60 (of 95)
External source: Shodhganga (Repository of Indian theses)
Download the PDF file of the original publication
Worship & worshipper 361 members of the principal deity, the junction of the directions, the flag post,
the place outside the sanctum santorium where the deities v膩hana or
attendant depicted in servitude style is stationed facing the deity. In these
places the lotus petals bare their pollen with the petals all pointing
downwards. Such a condition of the lotus flower is only when it is stale. On
this 'drooping lotus pedestal' the presiding deity moves in procession and
offers 'bali' offerings to his retinue gods.
Manner of offering flowers.
The SVT108 lays down the procedure of offering flower or leaf or fruit to the
goddess. It is mentioned that the offering should not be made with a down-
cast face as it results in sorrow. The flower or leaf should be offered one at a
time and not collectively in the manner of offering puspa帽jali. Among the
water flowers, the lotus is to be offered in the morning worship and the lily
in the night. In case if flowers are unavailable then corals may be used as a
substitute 109.
笔补惫颈迟谤腻谤辫补苍补.
There are different embellishments offered to the goddess. Among them the
Pavitr膩rpa峁嘺 needs special mention. Pavitra is a sacred thread which is
offered to the goddess. The KP110 states that a Pavitra should be made of
tufts of Ku艣a grass, Lotuses, Linen, Cotton and silk cord. Among the fibers,
the Linen is the excellent, followed by Cotton whereas Silk is considered as
108 SVT ch. XIX
109 SVT ch. XIX
110 KP ch LXI.45-67.
