The Hindu Temple v1.c4.s2.1

v1.c4.s2.1

Man here is the patron or Yajamāna (lit. the sacrificer) on whose behalf the temple is built by the architect who is guided by the priest in the principles of his work. In the diagram of the Vāstupuruṣa a communication is established between man (puruṣa) as the patron of the work and the Puruṣa, the Essence, of all things. At the definite time and place where the temple is to be set up, all times and all places congregate in the symbolic diagram of the Vāstupuruṣa. On this ritual drawing rests the super-structure of the temple, which is the manifestation (mūrti) of God.¹³ The ritual diagram of the Vāstupuruṣa is drawn wherever the site is prepared for this purpose. The preparation is in the readiness and discipline of the mind and heart of the patron and of those who are entrusted with the work because they have the competent skill. The priest has the guidance; the architect, who builds the temple, works in conformity with the knowledge of the priest.