The Antiquities of Orissa v1.c8.39

v1.c8.39

The Orissan name for this temple is *devul*, Sanskrit *vimāna*. It occupies the place of the European *naos*, *cella*, *adytum*, *advnov*, or sanctuary, being the abode of the visible representative of the Godhead. It has an *edos* on the side opposite the entrance, on which the image or images are seated. In all well-ordered fanes this raised platform, or throne, is made of stone, and finished with great care; but in poor and more recent temples it is replaced by a wooden chair. In Śaivite temples, it is entirely wanting, and the image is placed in the centre of the floor.