Early History of the Vaishnava Faith and Movement in Bengal, from Sanskrit and Bengali Sources c10.s1.150.2

c10.s1.150.2

A Tāntric circle, in the form of a tortoise (Kūrma-cakra), which is described in detail, is to be drawn; and the worshipper, sitting on the figure which represents the head of the tortoise, should practise repetition of his Mantra (Japa). During Puraścaraṇa, light food should be taken, and forbidden food (especially such as cause excitement of the senses) avoided; all luxury, such as music, unguent or garland of flowers, as well as association with women, should be strictly discarded. Certain rules of conduct should be observed, such as daily bathing and worship, sleeping on a mat of Kuśa grass, restraint of body, mind, speech and act, putting on clean clothes and associating with pious people. In accordance with the result desired (such as success, knowledge, removal of misery or disease), the seat or Āsana should consist of the skin of a tiger or deer, cotton, cane, silk or wool. The rosary for counting muttered prayers or spells requires elaborate directions with regard to its material, construction, length, number of constituent beads, and suitability for different kinds of worshippers, as well as its consecration (Saṃskāra), method and number of counting for different purposes, rules to be observed and things to be avoided at the time of counting, atonement for deficiencies, and the merit and efficacy of the act. These details need not be summarised here, but certain broad features may be indicated.