The Hindu Temple v2.c11.s3.1

v2.c11.s3.1

The closed body of the temple is full of openings not factually but symbolically. As a rule there is only one opening, that of the entrance; in effect and in symbol it is repeated at the cardinal points, as a ‘massive door’ (ghana-dvāra) or a rectangular niche; in addition there are many niches of varying sizes in the wall, socle and the superstructure of the temple. The major niches hold images which are directly connected with the main divinity of the temple, the smaller ones, which occupy less important positions, on the socle, in any direction, housing lesser divinities. Being thus enshrined in a rectangular frame, the image is singled out, its importance being increased in that it appears manifested straight from the centre. Across the massive door its presence shines forth. The Ghana-dvāras possess this primary symbolic function by virtue of their original position as doors in the cardinal points. While the rectangular shape of the niche is retained, its place-value remains by association only, if located anywhere on the perimeter of the temple.