The Hindu Temple v2.c11.s1.1

v2.c11.s1.1

The Hindu temple is a monument, whose outer surface consists of sculptures. The Maṇḍapas, the various halls, preceding the Prāsāda itself in which is contained the innermost sanctuary, the Garbhagṛha, are architecture in the accepted meaning. The Prāsāda itself however is almost completely a solid mass but for the Garbhagṛha, which is a small, dark, cubical chamber even in the largest temples. But for the main image or imageless symbol enshrined within, the walls of the Garbhagṛha, as a rule, are plain. The carvings cease at its door; there they confront the devotee for the last time as he approaches the innermost sanctuary; he may not himself, as in the temples of South India proceed further, the officiating priest performing the rites for him.