Bharatiya Jyotihshastra (History of Indian Astronomy), translated by R. V. Vaidya v2.c13.s1.4

v2.c13.s1.4

(coronation ceremony performed with the moon in puṣya nakṣatra), Paṭṭa-lakṣana, (the characteristics of the crown), the Khaḍga laksana (the characteristics of the sword). The next chapter relates to Vāstu (building). This contains a very extensive description. It provides useful information regarding the choice of site and wood for the house and the method of building houses for different purposes. Utpala has given five charts in the commentary on the work. The next chapter, entitled Udakārgala, mainly describes the art of water-finding and sets forth incidentally some ideas on geology. It is said that even now there are people who can direct one to a place, where water would be obtained after digging. Next comes the chapter on Vṛkṣāyurveda (the therapy of trees), which contains some sound hints on Botany. Next comes the chapter on Prāsādalakṣaṇa (characteristics of palaces), the next chapter headed Vajralepa, treats of the method of manufacturing some kind of lime. It is said to have been revealed by Maya. Further on comes the question of the idols of deities (that is, the method of moulding etc). Then comes the question of Vāstu pratiṣṭhā (the consecration of buildings). Further on are discussed the characteristics of cows, dogs, cocks, tortoises, goats, men and women. These are followed by the question of testing the chowrie and the sceptre, some ideas on erotics, testing of jewels like diamonds, pearls, ruby etc. Then are discussed the questions regarding lights, cleaning of teeth, omens. These are followed by the results, auspicious or otherwise, of the cries of dogs and jackals. Next are considered the questions regarding dear, elephants etc. After this comes the description of the effects of tithi, nakṣatra and Karaṇa and those of the transiting planets.