The Hindu Temple v2.c11.s8.21

v2.c11.s8.21

The central pillar 'pillars apart' heaven and earth (AV. X. 8. 2). It is a pillar of light, extending downwards from the sun in the zenith and rests on the earth ('Aitareya Brāhmaṇa', V. 28. 1). Its sheath (veṇu-kośa), the superstructure of the temple, shines with innumerable Gavākṣas (ray-wheels) in all the directions, a light-house on which 'revolves' the Āmalaka with its cogged rim. Its indentations sum up the buttresses and projecting angles of the total building; together with it they seem to revolve around its vertical axis, which divides while it unites, heaven and earth (cf. RV. X. 89. 4).