Elements of Hindu Iconography v2.c16.s5.10

v2.c16.s5.10

Another description, according to which the Aghōramūrti is generally sculptured and set up in temples, is found in the Kāraṇāgama. In this work he is known as the Aghōrāstramūrti and it is stated therein that the image of this aspect of Śiva is set up for gaining victory, for destroying such great sins as *brahmahatyā* or brahmanicide and for granting riches. Aghōrāstramūrti should have three eyes, eight arms and be of terrific look, with side tusks. The colour of this aspect of Śiva is dark. He is to be draped in red clothes, adorned with garlands of red flowers, ornaments set with rubies, a garland of skulls, and another composed of short daggers (*khaḍgamālā*) and a third of scorpions. His hair should be flaming and his forehead marked with ashes in the shape of the crescent moon. In his two hands he should carry a *triśūla* horizontally as though about to charge with it, and the other hands should hold a *vētāla*, *khaḍga*, *ḍamaru*, *kapāla* and *khaḍga* (*ghaṇṭā*?).