Essay name: Diksha (initiation) in Pancharatra
Author:
Shanta Srinivasan
Affiliation: University of Madras / Department of Sanskrit
This English essay studies Diksha in Pancharatra with reference to important texts. Diksha refers to initiation ceremonies into a particular esoteric tradition which is given, for example, by the teacher (Guru) to the student (Shishya). Pancharatra refers to an ancient school of Vaishnavism based on ancient Tantra-like texts called Agamas which were commonly written in Sanskrit verse.
Chapter 3 - The preliminary rites of Diksha
17 (of 18)
External source: Shodhganga (Repository of Indian theses)
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and transcendental or absolute. The mantras are related to twenty five tattvas. God also remains there in each of them. The tattvas are shown to be related to the three kinds of dīkṣā as condensed, middle and expansive. God is to be understood as present everywhere in the ritual. Knots are made from one to three in the strength which represents the physical body that is used in the ritual. He is to be imagined as present in more parts of the body, if the knots are more. Tattava homa is described in detail. This description is not generally available in the Pāñcarātra texts. This is followed by extensive description of Saṃpāta homa. Bali is then to be offered at every entrance in the hall by the Acārya accompanied by the pupil. Pegs are to be fixed all round the hall. Caru must be taken by the Acārya along with his disciples. The pupils are then to be given the tooth sticks which shall vary in length according to the nature of the pupil. While the pupil are made to sleep, the Acarya shall get up and cut the 1. Padmacarya 9 a to 14b. 115
