Significance of Images of deities
Images of deities are essential physical representations of Hindu gods and goddesses recognized in various scriptures, including Shilpashastra, Puranas, Kavya, and Dharmashastra. They serve as focal points for worship, are often intricately carved into temple structures, and can be crafted from precious materials. These representations enhance the spiritual significance of temples and are positioned according to specific guidelines. Additionally, they symbolize the divine in various forms, are integral to festivals, and play a critical role in religious practices.
In Dutch: Afbeeldingen van godheden; In Finnish: Kuvia jumaluuksista; In Spanish: Imágenes de deidades
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 serve as meditative and physical representations, guiding worship practices and spiritual connections. They are crafted according to specific guidelines, positioned strategically within temples, and vary in materials to embody divine significance.
From: Agni Purana
(1) Representations of gods and goddesses that are installed and worshiped during the bathing festival.[1] (2) Figurines or likenesses of various gods positioned around the temple, each dedicated to a cardinal direction.[2] (3) Sculpted representations of divine beings that should be made according to specific guidelines.[3] (4) Statues or representations of gods placed in temples for worship, with various materials indicating different levels of merit.[4] (5) Sculptures or representations of divine figures placed according to specific directional guidelines within the temple.[5]
From: Padma Purana
(1) Meditative representations that accompany the application of marks on the devotee's body.[6]
From: Matsya Purana (critical study)
(1) The representations of gods and goddesses, with specific descriptions of their forms and features as prescribed in the Matsyapurana.[7]
From: Harivamsha Purana
(1) Statues or representations of gods in temples that were also delighted by the arrival of the brothers.[8]
From: Manasara (English translation)
(1) Representations of gods or goddesses carved or installed within or on buildings, particularly in temples.[9] (2) Sculptures or representations of various deities that are installed within the temples for worship.[10] (3) Sculptures or carvings representing divine entities placed within specific areas like the antechamber to enhance the spiritual significance of the edifice.[11] (4) Figurative representations made of precious materials that are installed as part of the construction of temples.[12]
From: Vishnudharmottara Purana (Art and Architecture)
(1) Physical representations of Hindu gods and goddesses that serve as focal points for worship and spiritual connection.[13]
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.[14]
From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)
(1) Objects representing gods that are critical in the context of various ordeals.[15]
The concept of Images of deities in local and regional sources
Images of deities are physical representations of gods that, according to regional sources, were often disrespected and ultimately destroyed, reflecting societal attitudes toward divine icons and their significance in cultural and religious contexts.
From: Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints
(1) Physical representations of gods that were treated with disrespect and eventually destroyed.[16]