Encyclopaedia of Indian Iconography Hindus-Buddhism-Jainism

Book Details:

• Author: S.K. Ramachandra Rao

• Publisher: Sri Satguru Publications

• Language: English

• Edition: 2003

• ISBN: 9788170307648

• Pages: 1744 (Illustrated Throughout in Full B/W)

• Cover: Hardcover

• Dimensions: 28.5 cm x 22.5 cm

• Weight: 2.50 kg

Book Description:

From the Jacket:

The Encyclopaedia of Indian Iconography delves into the intricate details of images and their worship, drawing heavily from traditional texts such as Agama and Silpa Sastras. These volumes cover not only the deities of Hinduism but also extend to those of Jainism, Buddhism (Mahayana), and those worshipped in Nepal and Tibet. The entries are enriched with line drawings of images found in temples, monasteries, basadis, and museums. Key topics like temple construction, image-making, worship rituals, and Agama divisions are also addressed.

The book is organized according to the Sanskrit alphabetical order (Akaradi) to facilitate translations into Indian languages. The entries cover well-known synonyms for the deities and include cross-references where necessary. Background stories behind specific iconographical representations are provided.

The author, S.K. Ramachandra Rao, is a renowned scholar in Sanskrit, Pali, and various Indian and European languages. His expertise spans Vedanta, Buddhism, Jainism, Indian culture, art, and literature. His academic work and practical engagement in these fields have made him a significant figure in Indian cultural scholarship. Rao has held positions such as the Head of the Department of Clinical Psychology at NIMHANS, Bangalore, and has authored numerous publications on Indian art, culture, and philosophy.

Introduction:

Polytheism is a fundamental characteristic of Hinduism. However, it is crucial to understand that Hindus believe in one ultimate God, with the many gods being merely different aspects or manifestations of the same divinity. The devotee’s relationship with the deity often involves invoking various forms of God, even though the essence of the divine transcends all imagery.

Icons serve as a physical representation of God, aiding in the devotee’s interaction with the divine through rituals. The process of consecrating an image involves devotion and ritualistic preparation, transforming it into a powerful icon worthy of worship. The creation of such icons, deeply intertwined with spiritual practices, requires knowledge of descriptive hymns (dhyana slokas) that guide the sculptor in crafting the deity's form.

The sculptor, engaged in creating icons, must not only be skilled in his craft but also steeped in the spiritual traditions associated with each deity. The process involves intense mental and physical discipline, where the artist meditates on the dhyana sloka, visualizing the deity before translating the vision into an image. This fusion of art and devotion results in icons that carry spiritual potency, as they are created with deep reverence and focused dedication.

The book also addresses the historical and commercial aspects of icon-making, noting how the practice evolved over time, especially in trade centers like Mathura, where icons were manufactured for different religious groups. Despite the commercialization of the craft, the essence of icon-making remains connected to the rituals and spiritual goals of the devotee.

In summary, the Encyclopaedia of Indian Iconography offers an exhaustive exploration of the deities, rituals, and iconography that form the core of Indian religious practice. It serves as an invaluable resource for understanding the complex and multi-dimensional nature of Indian spiritual traditions.