Ritual

Symbolism and Imagery
Tantric forms are represented in a purely allegorical manner where
representation of one order of ideas is achieved by an image used as
a symbol. The forms have acquired meanings through usage and
cultural conditioning. Many tantric symbols appear to be absorbed
subliminally and produced spontaneously and unconsciously in
contemplative vision or creative psychic manifestations; conversely,
they have a communicative aspect and elicit ideas with
strong metaphysical undertones. Their real significance lies in their
function as psychic associations in the conscious mind.
Symbols seldom appear directly, and their inner meaning ever
eludes the eye; however enigmatic they may appear, they are
only the means of knowing reality in images. Hence the wideranging
symbology of tantric art necessitates some acquaintance
with the tantric texts. Most of the symbols are very old and can be
traced back to the Vedic period (c. 2000 BC). In the Rig Veda, the
creative principle of life is conceived of as a 'golden embryo' or
Hiranya-garbha, the womb of energy from which the universe
develops. The same symbol is crystallized in the conception of the
Siva-linga, or Cosmic Egg, in the tantras. Ageless symbols live
incarnate from one period to the other and continue to survive
Salagrama, symbol of Lord
Narayana or Vishnu, in his aspect
as Sridhara. Banaras, contemporary
expression of traditional form.
Stone.
Brahmanda, the 'Cosmic -Egg', used
in ritual as manifesting a
realization of wholeness. The
entire universe is symbolized in this
egg-shaped form. From the
Narmada river-bed, Western India.
Stone.
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