In Hinduism

Pancaratra (worship of Nārāyaṇa)

Source: archive.org: Catalogue of Pancaratra Agama Texts

Bāhyayāgavidhi (बाह्ययागविधि) (lit. “rules for liturgical offerings—iconic worship”) is the name of chapter 6 (Kriyākāṇḍa) of the Pārameśvarasaṃhitā: an important Pāñcarātra text of 8700 verses followed closely by the Ranganathaswamy temple at Srirangam—dealing with priestly concerns such as their daily routines, occasional liturgies and expiatory services.—Description of the chapter [bāhyayāgavidhi]: This chapter turns to overt, liturgical worship. First, the necessary paraphernalia must be collected, purified, and then placed where they will be needed (1-54). The incense-holder is described and its cosmic symbolism indicated (55-61)—the appreciation of this symbolism being a prerequisite of worship- and a similar treatment is to be afforded the ghaṇṭā-bell (62-99). When and where these are used in the liturgy is given (100-109). The pūjā-liturgy ideally begins as one offers in the proper way, just as one would to any honored guest in one’s house, arghya, pādya, puṣpa, etc., to the icon (110-142). But before the worshipper can make these offerings he must first undertake some purificatory rites and also request the presence of various other divine powers (143-180); and as part of this invocation he must mentally conjure up the proper (mental) image of each before addressing the appropriate mantra to it. How to imagine these beings is given at some length (185-277). Having secured their presence, he then commences to offer to them and to the icon the amenities of pūjā-worship—various liquids, food-offerings, fruits, betel and how to do this with all propriety and piety is explained step-by-step. This much over, then one offers to the icon of the Lord His śayanāsana (seat for rest) (278-420a).

context information

Pancaratra (पाञ्चरात्र, pāñcarātra) represents a tradition of Hinduism where Narayana is revered and worshipped. Closeley related to Vaishnavism, the Pancaratra literature includes various Agamas and tantras incorporating many Vaishnava philosophies.

See also (Relevant definitions)

Partial matches: Bahyayaga, Vidhi, Viti.

Full-text: Yagavidhi, Bahyayaga.

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