The Hindu Temple v1.c5.s5.4

v1.c5.s5.4

There is a difference in meaning and purpose, on one basis in common between the two main types of the Vāstupuruṣa-maṇḍala. The prototype is the one of 64 squares. The maṇḍala of 81 squares is drawn in closer conformity with the 'body' of the Vāstupuruṣa, and appears to have been used by Kṣatriyas in contradistinction to the cosmic plan of 64 squares. At the time of the construction of the temples which yet stand and of the treatises about them, this distinction, though still known, was not necessarily also made. Varāhamihira, in the sixth century, speaks of either type, specifies the use of the maṇḍala of 64 squares and gives major importance by describing it in detail, to the maṇḍala of 81 squares. At the climax of the temple building activity (about 900-1100 A.D.), the ‘Īśānaśivagurudeva-paddhati’, after having clearly distinguished between the two plans decides: If of 81 squares, it is fit for Prāsādas, and kings too (III. ch. XXVII. 3), and concludes by prescribing that 81 squares are drawn on the square floor of the Prāsāda to be built (ib. 58-60). The ‘Kāmikāgama’ (XVII. 107), after discerning the types sums up its position. "In this text-book (śāstra) it is said that everything is fit for all". While this was held at the time when the temples were actually built, the implied difference of meaning on its common basis requires to be investigated in the two main types of maṇḍalas which are relevant to the temple.