[Pramāṇa](https://indike.org/pramana/) › [Studies](https://indike.org/pramana/ins) › [Science, technology and education](https://indike.org/pramana/ins.science) › [Yantras or Mechanical Contrivances in Ancient India](https://indike.org/pramana/ins.science.raghavan-1952) › c2.23 # Yantras or Mechanical Contrivances in Ancient India c2.23 Yantras or Mechanical Contrivances in Ancient India c2.23 - **Language:** English ### [c2.23](https://indike.org/pramana/ins.science.raghavan-1952.c2.23) That from ancient times the idea of a \*yantra\* was very common is proved by two facts, the application of the concept to the esoteric sphere, and the way the \*yantra\* roused the imagination of the spiritual writers. In esoteric worship the \*yantra\* was a chart which stored up within its confines spiritual power; drawn on a flat surface or made in relief, it had components or details which had to be strictly conformed to and, as an instrument for achieving spiritual power, it eminently deserved the name "\*yantra\*." In the minds of the writers, who were essentially men of religious faith and spiritual yearning, the yantra or machine always suggested a highly apt analogy for the material universe or the mundane body activated by a God or presided over by a Soul. - [Previous: c2.22](https://indike.org/pramana/ins.science.raghavan-1952.c2.22) - [Next: c2.24](https://indike.org/pramana/ins.science.raghavan-1952.c2.24) - [Up: c2](https://indike.org/pramana/ins.science.raghavan-1952.c2) --- Source: [https://indike.org/pramana/ins.science.raghavan-1952.c2.23](https://indike.org/pramana/ins.science.raghavan-1952.c2.23) · Pramāṇa