Introduction to Tantra Sastra - Aghori

106
INTRODUCTION TO TANTRA ŚĀSTRA
PURAŚCARAṆ A
This form of sādhana consists in the repetition (after
certain preparations and under certain conditions) of a
mantra a large number of times. The ritual 1 deals with
the time and place of performance, the measurements
and decorations of the maṇ ḍ apa, or pandal, and of the
altar and similar matters. There are certain rules as to
food both prior to, and during, its performance. The
sādhaka should eat haviṣyānna, 2 or alternatively boiled
milk (kṣīra), fruits, or Indian vegetables, or anything
obtained by begging, and avoid all food calculated to
influence the passions. Certain conditions and practices
are enjoined for the destruction of sin, such as continence,
bathing, japa (q.v.) of the Savitri-mantra 5008, 3008,
or 1008 times, the entertainment of Brāhmaṇ as, and so
forth. Three days before pūjā there is worship of Gaṇ ‐
eśa and Kṣetra-pāla, Lord of the Place. Pañca-gavya, 3
or the five products of the cow, are eaten. The Sun,
Moon, and Devas, are invoked. Then follows the saṃkalpa.
4 The ghata or kalaśa (jar), is then placed into which
the Devī is to be invoked. A maṇ ḍ ala or figure of a particular
design is marked on the ground, and on it the
ghata is placed. Then the five or nine gems are placed
on the kalaśa, which is painted with red and covered
with leaves. The ritual then prescribes for the tying of the
crown lock (śikha), the posture (āsana) of the sādhaka,
japa (q.v.), nyāsa, (q.v.), and the mantra ritual or process.
1 For a short account, see Puraścaraṇa-bodhinī, by Hara-kumāra-Tagore
(1895) and see Tantrasāra, p. 71.
2 See ante.
3 Milk, curd, ghee, urine. and dung, the two last (except in the case of the
pious) in smaller quantity.
4 See ante.