Significance of Brihatsamhita
Brihatsamhita is a significant ancient work that encompasses various aspects of astrology, architecture, and Vastushastra. Compiled by Varaha-Mihira, it dates back to at least the sixth century A.D. and serves as a vital source of knowledge on temple construction, architectural techniques, and the contributions of master architects. The text provides guidelines on the design of Nagara temples, discusses celestial alignments, and emphasizes the integration of astronomical principles with architecture. Overall, Brihatsamhita is essential for understanding ancient Indian architectural practices.
In Dutch: Brihatsamhita
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Brihatsamhita'
The Brihatsamhita, authored by Varahamihira, is a crucial astrological and architectural treatise in Hinduism, detailing guidelines for temple construction, architectural techniques, and cosmic principles, significantly influencing Vastushastra and ancient architectural practices in India.
From: Vastu-shastra (Introduction to Indian architecture)
(1) A literary work listed under Vastu literature that contains astronomical and astrological information.[1] (2) An ancient work that is referred to as a significant text in the study of architecture and Vastushastra.[2] (3) An important astrological and architectural treatise of ancient India that includes guidelines for temple construction.[3] (4) An astronomical work written by a leading astronomer of the Gupta period that also addresses architecture.[4] (5) A known text compiled by Varaha-mihira no later than the sixth century A.D., which references the works of ancient master-architects.[5]
From: Samarangana-sutradhara (Summary)
(1) One of the key treatises on architecture mentioned that contributes to the understanding of the twenty varieties of Nagara temples.[6] (2) Another work attributed to Varahamihira that contains differing figures and proportions than those discussed in the Samarangana-Sutradhara.[7]
From: Vishnudharmottara Purana (Art and Architecture)
(1) Another ancient text that outlines specifications for the sarvatobhadra temples, including architectural features like doors and domes.[8] (2) An ancient text that imparts critical knowledge regarding temple architecture and construction techniques in India.[9] (3) An ancient text that also recommends the inclusion of a water tank at the site of a temple.[10] (4) A classical text that discusses various architectural techniques and dimensions related to Hindu temples.[11]
From: Kashyapa Shilpa-shastra (study)
(1) A work compiled by Varahamihira that discusses the science of architecture and the thoughts of master architects.[12] (2) An early text compared to Kashyapa Shilpashastra, from which the commentator Bhattotpala quotes extensively regarding Kashyapa.[13]
From: Manasara (English translation)
(1) A work that does not list all thirty-two names but gives summarized accounts primarily of the eighth and ninth plans.[14] (2) A semi-Purana that includes several chapters addressing notable architectural and sculptural matters, incorporating definitions and classifications of buildings.[15]
From: Brihat Samhita
(1) A Sanskrit text that covers various aspects of astrology, natural phenomena, and human life.[16] (2) A significant text that discusses astrological and natural phenomena.[17] (3) An ancient Indian astronomical text attributed to Varaha-Mihira.[18] (4) A classical text from which the appendix is extracted, specifically from chapter 99.[19] (5) A text from which the appendix is extracted, specifically from chapter 29.[20]
From: Matsya Purana (critical study)
(1) A classical text that offers insights and guidelines on architectural practices and cosmology in ancient India.[21] (2) A text that mentions the positioning of Mula and other nakshatras in the body of Nakshatrapurusha.[22] (3) A text referenced in the Matsyapurana that includes discussions of several architectural authorities and their contributions to Vastushastra.[23]
The concept of Brihatsamhita in local and regional sources
Brihatsamhita, authored by Varahamihira, is an extensive encyclopedic text covering diverse topics such as astrology, meteorology, and architecture, showcasing its significance as a foundational work in ancient Indian knowledge and science.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) An encyclopedic work by Varahamihira encompassing various subjects including astrology, meteorology, and architecture.[24]