Studies in Indian Art c7.s3.10

c7.s3.10

The worship of an image is itself an art, a 'technique', as clearly stated in the Vishnu Purāna. "First the worshipper should mediate on the differentiated form (mūrta rūpa) of Vishnu. He should make his mind strong, i.e., intent on concentration when looking at the image". This corresponds to the stage of dhāraṇā in Yoga. He should understand the form and meaning of each limb of which the image is a complete expression. The decorative ornaments and the various poses of the hands like *varada* and *abhaya*, should also interest him.