Tamil Arts Volume33
Āgamas: The Pillars of Hindu Temple Worship
and
Human Knowledge
Dr. Ramadevi Sekhar
Introduction
Hinduism, one of the oldest living religions in the world, is profoundly intricate in its practices and philosophies. Among its defining characteristics is the worship of God in images, a practice rooted in the understanding that the divine is simultaneously immanent and transcendental. This distinctive approach to spirituality is meticulously governed by the Āgamas, ancient scriptures that prescribe the rules and methodologies for temple worship. The Āgamas are not merely ritual manuals; they encompass a wide range of knowledge spanning religion, art, architecture, iconography, and societal organization. This article delves into the multifaceted nature of the Āgamas, exploring their structure, significance, and the breadth of disciplines they influence.
The Philosophical Foundation of Āgamas
In Hinduism, God is perceived as omnipresent, omniscient, and omnipotent, existing both within and beyond the universe. He is formless yet manifests in finite forms, enabling devotees to experience and realize the infinite through the finite. This theological framework forms the basis for the worship of images, a practice that distinguishes Hinduism from many other religions. The Āgamas codify this practice, emphasizing the need for devotees to align their minds with the divine through preliminary disciplines before engaging in worship.
The Āgamas assert that God’s manifestation in the form of temple images is not merely symbolic but serves as a conduit for divine grace. Worshipping these images allows devotees to transcend the sensory world and attain spiritual enlightenment. This philosophy underscores the intrinsic connection between the metaphysical and the physical realms, a hallmark of Hindu spirituality.
मूर्तिं संस्थाप्य विधिवत् पूजां कुर्यान्नरः सदा। यथाशास्त्रं यथान्यायं तदैश्वर्यं प्रजायते॥" (Kāmika Āgama, 7.1)
Translation: "By installing the deity’s image in accordance with the scriptures and performing worship duly, one attains divine blessings and prosperity."
The Structure of Āgamas
The Āgamas are traditionally divided into four sections:
Jnana Pada (Knowledge Section): This section deals with metaphysical principles, explaining the nature of the soul, the universe, and the supreme being. It provides the philosophical underpinnings for the practices prescribed in other sections.
Yoga Pada (Discipline Section): Focused on yogic practices, this section outlines methods for attaining mental and spiritual discipline, serving as a preparatory stage for worship.
Kriya Pada (Ritual Section): This section details the procedures for temple rituals, including daily, monthly, and annual worship practices, as well as the construction and consecration of temples and images.
Carya Pada (Conduct Section): This section provides guidelines for personal conduct and societal norms, integrating spiritual principles into daily life.
While some Āgama texts emphasize one of these sections, others provide a comprehensive treatment of all four. This structural diversity reflects the adaptability and depth of the Āgamas, making them relevant to a wide range of spiritual and practical needs.
Another insightful verse from the Kāranāgama highlights the interplay of spirituality and ritual:
"ज्ञानं ध्यानं ततः पूजा क्रिया योगः सदा स्मृतः। संयोगात् परमं ज्ञानं मोक्षो भवति निश्चितम्॥" (Kāranāgama, 2.3)
Translation: "Knowledge, meditation, worship, rituals, and yoga—when practiced together—lead to supreme wisdom and assured liberation."
Temple Worship and Rituals
The Āgamas provide exhaustive guidelines for temple worship, encompassing both routine and special rituals. These include daily worship, seasonal festivals, and expiatory rites for correcting lapses in ritual conduct. The meticulous attention to detail ensures that every aspect of worship aligns with divine principles, fostering a sacred atmosphere that facilitates spiritual experiences.
Before engaging in worship, devotees are required to undergo preliminary disciplines, such as purification rituals and meditation, to attune their minds to the divine. This preparatory stage underscores the Āgamas’ emphasis on inner transformation as a prerequisite for meaningful worship.
Art and Architecture in Āgamas
Beyond their religious significance, the Āgamas are a treasure trove of knowledge on art, architecture, and iconography. They provide detailed instructions for the design and construction of temples, which are considered earthly abodes of the divine. These instructions cover:
Site Selection and Temple Architecture
The Āgamas prescribe detailed guidelines for selecting auspicious locations for temple construction. The chosen site is believed to influence the spiritual energy of the temple and its surroundings. Key considerations include:
- Proximity to natural water sources, such as rivers or ponds.
- The fertility and elevation of the land.
- The absence of inauspicious features, such as burial grounds.
A verse from the Mayamata Āgama elaborates on this:
"नद्याः समीपे शुद्धे च भूमावोत्तमलक्षणे।
देवालयस्य स्थानं हि पुण्यं प्राप्नोति निर्मलम्॥"
Translation: "Near a pure river, on auspicious and elevated land, a temple site brings divine blessings and purity."
The architectural principles outlined in the Āgamas ensure that temple structures embody cosmic harmony. Proportions, layouts, and orientation are meticulously designed to reflect divine principles. For example, the Shilpa Shastra section of the Āgamas specifies measurements for sanctums, corridors, and towers, ensuring that every element aligns with spiritual symbolism.
Iconography and Consecration
The Āgamas provide exhaustive guidelines for the creation and consecration of deity images, emphasizing the embodiment of divine attributes. Iconographers are instructed to adhere to specific proportions and symbolic elements to ensure that the images serve as true manifestations of the divine.
A verse from the Kāmika Āgama states:
"मूर्तौ यथाशास्त्रं कर्म ततः स्वर्गं हि लभ्यते।
प्रतिष्ठां च समायुक्तं जीवनं धनधान्यवत्॥"
Translation: "When deity images are crafted as per scriptures, they bestow heavenly bliss, prosperity, and fulfillment upon the devotees."
The consecration ritual, or Prāṇa Pratiṣṭha, is a critical component of temple worship. Through this ritual, the divine presence is invoked in the image, transforming it from a mere sculpture into a sacred embodiment of the deity.
Metal Casting in Āgamas
The Āgamas also provide detailed instructions for crafting metal images, which are often used in processional rituals. The process involves preparing a mold, heating the metal, and casting the image with precision and devotion.
A verse from the Kāmika Āgama describes the process:
"आदौ वृन्ते समारभ्य संविधानं सुविस्तरम्।
लोहमाधाय तापेन जातरूपं विचिन्तयेत्॥"
Translation: "First, prepare the mould with great care and precision. Then, heat the metal thoroughly and pour it into the mould, contemplating the form as it should emerge."
This process exemplifies the integration of art, craftsmanship, and spirituality, reflecting the holistic approach of the Āgamas.
The Āgamas also delve into painting and town planning, demonstrating their holistic approach to integrating spirituality with daily life. The artistic and architectural guidelines prescribed in the Āgamas have profoundly influenced India’s cultural heritage, leaving an indelible mark on its temple traditions.
A verse from the Suprabheda Āgama elaborates on the sanctity of temple construction:
"वास्तुप्रमाणं शास्त्रं हि देवालयस्य निर्मितिः। नित्यं पवित्रं पुण्यं च सर्वसंपत्प्रदायकम्॥" (Suprabheda Āgama, 4.12)
Translation: "The construction of temples as per the principles of Vastu is eternally sacred and grants virtue and prosperity to all."
Āgamas and Societal Organization
The Āgamas extend their influence beyond religious practices, offering insights into societal organization and governance. The Carya Pada, in particular, emphasizes ethical conduct and social harmony, promoting values that strengthen community bonds. By integrating spiritual principles into societal norms, the Āgamas contribute to the holistic development of individuals and communities.
The Interdisciplinary Nature of Āgamas
The Āgamas’ scope is not limited to religion and spirituality; they intersect with various disciplines, including:
Philosophy: Providing profound insights into the nature of existence and the ultimate reality.
Science: Incorporating principles of astronomy and geometry in temple construction.
Medicine: Offering guidelines for maintaining physical and mental well-being as part of spiritual practice.
Performing Arts: Influencing classical dance and music traditions, which often draw upon temple rituals and iconography.
This interdisciplinary approach underscores the Āgamas’ relevance to diverse fields of human knowledge, making them a valuable resource for scholars and practitioners alike.
The Relevance of Āgamas in Contemporary Times
In today’s fast-paced world, the Āgamas offer timeless wisdom that bridges the gap between the spiritual and the material. Their emphasis on aligning human activities with divine principles provides a roadmap for harmonious living. Moreover, the Āgamas’ holistic approach to temple worship and societal organization continues to inspire efforts to preserve India’s cultural heritage.
The architectural and artistic guidelines outlined in the Āgamas remain relevant for contemporary practitioners of temple art and architecture. By adhering to these principles, modern architects and artists can ensure that their creations resonate with the spiritual essence of Hindu traditions.
Conclusion
The Āgamas are a cornerstone of Hindu religious and cultural traditions, offering comprehensive guidelines for temple worship, art, architecture, and societal organization. Their holistic approach integrates spirituality with various aspects of human life, fostering inner transformation and societal harmony. By preserving and studying the Āgamas, we not only honor India’s rich heritage but also gain insights into timeless principles that can guide us in navigating the complexities of the modern world.
Bibliography
Acharya, P. K. Hindu Architecture in India and Abroad. New Delhi: Orient Blackswan, 1996.
Gopinatha Rao, T. A. Elements of Hindu Iconography. Delhi: Motilal Banarsidass, 1997.
Sivaramamurti, C. South Indian Bronzes. New Delhi: National Museum, 1963.
Srinivasan, K. R. Temples of South India. New Delhi: National Book Trust, 1972.
Vatsyayan, Kapila. The Square and the Circle of the Indian Arts. New Delhi: Abhinav Publications, 1997.
Zimmer, Heinrich. Myths and Symbols in Indian Art and Civilization. Princeton: Princeton University Press, 1946.
The Author is official Sishya under National Gurukul Fellowship-Indian Council of Historical Research (HRDE, Govt. of India) and Honorary Research Director- Tamil Arts Academy.
[ Article by Dr.Ramadevi Sekhar, (Disciple of ‘Padmabhushan Awardee’- Dr.R.Nagaswamy), Director - Center for Art and Culture, Shri Shankarlal Sundarbai Shasun Jain College for Women, Chennai. ]