Eikon, Eikōn: 1 definition

Introduction:

Eikon means something in Hinduism, Sanskrit. If you want to know the exact meaning, history, etymology or English translation of this term then check out the descriptions on this page. Add your comment or reference to a book if you want to contribute to this summary article.

In Hinduism

Shilpashastra (iconography)

Source: Shodhganga: The significance of the mūla-beras (śilpa)

Eikon in Greek translates to “icon” in English and refers to a figure, or a representation of a divine person in painting, mosaic, sculpture, etc., which is specially meant for worship or which is in some way or other associated with the rituals connected with the worship of different divinities”

The Greek meaning of this expression, eikōn, has close parallel with the Indian terms bera, vigraha, and arcā, which denote sensible representations of particular deities or saints receiving the devout homage of their bhaktas or exclusive worshippers. An icon is what is constructed and also what is utilized. It not only delights, but serves a purpose. According to Michael Kelly, “The icon is a story in images, though it is not a story about the events of daily life, but of events that are unique, miraculous, and significant for the whole of humankind. It contains nothing contingent, transient, or insignificant: it is a generalized, laconic image””

Shilpashastra book cover
context information

Shilpashastra (शिल्पशास्त्र, śilpaśāstra) represents the ancient Indian science (shastra) of creative arts (shilpa) such as sculpture, iconography and painting. Closely related to Vastushastra (architecture), they often share the same literature.

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