Early History of the Vaishnava Faith and Movement in Bengal, from Sanskrit and Bengali Sources c10.s1.67

c10.s1.67

This Vilāsa continues the topic of morning worship (Pātar-Arcā). It begins with a description of the burning of fragrant incense (Dhūpana), accompanied by the ringing of a small bell carried in the left hand, and by proper Mudrā and Mantra. The usual ingredients of the incense are Ruhikā, Kaṇa (Guggula), Dāru, Sihlaka, Aguru, Sitā, Sarkarā and Jāti-phala but some add ghee, honey and sandal. No animal product, except musk, is to be used. The Yakṣa-dhūpa, prepared from the exudation of Śāla trees, or incense made from the Uśīra grass and Śalka-rasa, is forbidden. After offering Dhūpa to the deity, one should fumigate oneself with the remainder fume. The burning of incense before the deity is highly praised in the Purāṇas, and it is said that it qualifies one for the Sārūpya form of emancipation.