Chapter 47 - Propitiatory measures (Śāntika-vidhi)

[Note: This chapter corresponds to Chapter 42 of the original Samarāṅgaṇa-Sūtradhāra]

Though apparently this chapter gives a ritualistic impression, the fact is otherwise. It is simply a masterpiece on house architecture. It contains innumerable varieties of the architectural terms forming the component parts and elements of a house. An effort has been made to tabulate these in the appendix (Glossary). The Śāntika is enjoined if any of these parts is disturbed, spoiled, contaminated or it gives way. The procedure of Śāntika consists of the laying of a Karṇikā and its worship is attended by all the upacāras The Karṇikā is a fruit stock and it is brought for its plantation on the plot where the house is to be built. After it is laid down in the ground, the omens are observed (good or otherwise) and the results ascertained accordingly more particularly if any of the birds enumerated come and sit on it, it is deemed inauspicious. After this Śāntika is enjoined in connection with the Bhaṅga of any of the wooden joinery. Special mention may be made of the new houses (i.e. those which are not older than a year) and if anything there gives way, it must be observed and reported and Śāntika is to be performed.