Significance of Images of deities
Images of deities are physical representations of gods and goddesses used in various religious contexts, particularly within temples. According to Shilpashastra and other texts, these images serve as focal points for worship, created from precious materials and carved according to specific guidelines. They can be statues or sculptures positioned strategically within temples to enhance spiritual significance. The concept also covers representations that guide worship practices, contributing to the rich tradition of Hindu religious art and devotion.
Synonyms: Figures of gods, Religious icons, Iconography, Figures
In Dutch: Afbeeldingen van godheden; In Finnish: Kuvia jumaluuksista; In Spanish: Imágenes de deidades; In German: Bilder von Gottheiten
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Images of deities'
Images of deities in Hinduism encompass diverse representations, including sculptures in temples, meditative figures, and specific directional placements, serving as focal points for worship and enhancing spiritual significance in religious practices.
From: Harivamsha Purana
(1) Statues or representations of gods in temples that were also delighted by the arrival of the brothers.[1]
From: Manasara (English translation)
(1) Representations of gods or goddesses carved or installed within or on buildings, particularly in temples.[2] (2) Sculptures or representations of various deities that are installed within the temples for worship.[3] (3) Sculptures or carvings representing divine entities placed within specific areas like the antechamber to enhance the spiritual significance of the edifice.[4] (4) Figurative representations made of precious materials that are installed as part of the construction of temples.[5]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) Figurative representations of divine beings in religious practice, which some traditions interpret as less tangible than the concept of 'Deity' itself.[6]
From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)
(1) Objects representing gods that are critical in the context of various ordeals.[7]
The concept of Images of deities in local and regional sources
Images of deities are physical representations of gods often subjected to disrespect, leading to their eventual destruction, as noted in regional sources. This highlights the cultural and spiritual significance attributed to such representations.
From: Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints
(1) Physical representations of gods that were treated with disrespect and eventually destroyed.[8]
The concept of Images of deities in scientific sources
Images of deities, such as Ahura Mazda, were central to Zoroastrian beliefs. Their presence on Sogdian burial items in China demonstrates the importance of divine representation in their religious practices.
From: Religions Journal (MDPI)
(1) The text mentions the images of deities, including Ahura Mazda, Tištrya, and others, as part of the Zoroastrian imagery found on Sogdian burial utensils in China, indicating the importance of divine figures in their religious beliefs.[9]