Elements of Hindu Iconography v1.c7.48

v1.c7.48

There is still another classification of images based upon their terrific (*raudra* or *ugra*), or pacific (*śānta* or *saumya*) nature. The first class is always characterised by sharp, long tusks and nails, and a large number of hands carrying weapons of war. The images of terrific nature have also wide, circular eyes, flames of fire round their heads, and are in some cases adorned with human skulls and bones. The *raudra* form of images are worshipped for the attainment of objects requiring the use of violence. The *śānta* or *saumya* form of images are peaceful looking in appearance, and are worshipped for the attainment of peaceful aims and objects. Among the images of Vishnu, the Viśvarūpa, the Nṛisiṃha, the Vaṭapatraśāyin and Paraśurāma are considered to be *ugra-mūrtis*; and Śiva as the destroyer of Kāma, of the elephant (Gajahā-mūrti), of the *tripuras*, and of Yama, has to be terrific in nature and appearance. The terrific images are not meant to be set up in temples in towns, but must always have their temples invariably outside.