Mayamata and Building Construction (study)
by Ripan Ghosh | 2024 | 61,593 words
This page relates ‘Caution for tree-cutting� of the study dealing with Mayamata—an ancient Indian architectural treatise dealing with building construction (bhavana-nirmana). It forms part of “Vastuvidya�: a stream of Sanskrit technical literature encompassing village and town planning, temple architecture and other aspects like site selection, orientation, and structural arrangements aimed at promoting harmony and prosperity.
Part 7.5.4 - Caution for tree-cutting
[Note: This article is part of the series: ±èÄå»å²¹±è°ù²¹³¾Äåṇa-»å°ù²¹±¹²â²¹-parigraha-±¹¾±»å³óÄå²Ô²¹ (Measurement of the pillars and regulation of the acquisition of materials)]
Maya advises to take the bellow mentioned precautions while cutting trees.
� If the tree falls facing east or north after it is cut down, the tree is considered auspicious for the owner. However, if it falls in other directions, it results in adverse outcomes.
� If a tree falls among other trees and gets stuck on the tops of other trees, it signifies the destruction of the house owner. If it gets stuck at the roots, it causes ill health to the house owner.
� If the middle part of a tree breaks during cutting, the person who cuts it will face misfortune. If the top part of the tree breaks, it indicates the destruction of their progeny. It is considered auspicious for the tree that falls onto another tree. Both parts of the tree should be cut evenly.
� After cutting the tree, both ends should be trimmed equally to make the wood square and straight. Afterwards the wood should be covered with white cloth and placed in a vehicle (cart or chariot) for transportation.
� The trees should be brought into the workshop and laid down on sand, with their tops facing east or north. They should be protected until they become dry.
� The trees should not be moved from their place for at least six months.
All ¾±²Ô»å°ù²¹°ìÄ«±ô²õ (nails) should be obtained with care in the same manner.