Idol worship: 3 definitions

Introduction
In Hinduism
1. Pancaratra
2. General definition
India history
See also

Introduction:

Idol worship means something in Hinduism, Sanskrit, the history of ancient India. 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

Pancaratra (worship of Nārāyaṇa)

Source: Shodhganga: Kasyapa Samhita—Text on Visha Chikitsa (p)

Idol worship and Temple worship are given utmost importance in the Pāñcarātrāgamas. Numerous seers and saints like the Āḻvārs have rejoiced and revelled in glorifying the worship of the idols or arcā form installed and consecrated images in temples across the country. The idol of God may be of wood, metal, or mortar. Āgamas declare that this figure obtains the character of śuddhasattva after due consecration (pratiṣṭhā) ceremony, where everyone can pray and seek succour from the Lord.

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.

General definition (in Hinduism)

Source: Shodhganga: Elements of Art and Architecture in the Trtiyakhanda of the Visnudharmottarapurana (h)

Idol worship (in Hinduism) originated after the concept of Vedī (the sacrificial ground for offering materials), according to the Śatapathabrāhmaṇa and Taittirīyabrāhmaṇa.—In the Śatapathabrāhmaṇa it is stated that by worshiping fire in the Vedic age, the devotees or the sages obtained saṃvīd i.e., the entire earth and as because they were able to obtain this entire earth by it, therefore the, sacrificial ground is called vedī. According to the Taittirīyabrāhmaṇa, also the earth itself is regarded as altar. Thus the concept of the vedī or a ground for offering materials specifically to God of worship emerged in the Vedic era. Again after making the vedī, the concept of idol worship came into existence.

India history and geography

Source: Shodhganga: Elements of Art and Architecture in the Trtiyakhanda of the Visnudharmottarapurana (history)

Idol worship was common during during the Vedic time.—The texts of the Rāmāyaṇa and the Mahābhārata also include the discussion of image worship which can be the evidence of idol worship of that time.

context information

The history of India traces the identification of countries, villages, towns and other regions of India, as well as mythology, zoology, royal dynasties, rulers, tribes, local festivities and traditions and regional languages. Ancient India enjoyed religious freedom and encourages the path of Dharma, a concept common to Buddhism, Hinduism, and Jainism.

Relevant text

Search found 26 books and stories containing Idol worship; (plurals include: Idol worships). You can also click to the full overview containing English textual excerpts. Below are direct links for the most relevant articles:

Verse 1.2.65 < [Chapter 2 - The Lord’s Appearance]

Verse 1.4.20 < [Chapter 4 - Name-giving Ceremony, Childhood Pastimes, and Thieves Kidnap the Lord]

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8(a): Image Making: The Concept < [Chapter 5 - Painting and Image Making]

1. Origin and Development of Temple building < [Chapter 4 - Temple Building]

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11 (a). Recent Trends of Expiatory Rites < [Chapter 4 - Socio-Cultural aspects of Expiatory Rites]

7. Impacts of Purāṇas in Temple Expiatory Rites < [Chapter 4 - Socio-Cultural aspects of Expiatory Rites]

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Idol Worship in Hindu Religion < [April – June, 2006]

The Course of Indian History If Gandhji Had Not Born < [October 1969]

Raja Ram Mohan Roy < [April – June, 1989]