The University of Nalanda c12.5

c12.5

This bath was followed by the Ablution of the Holy Image (Buddha). "The priest in charge (Karmadāna)", says I-Tsing, "strikes a *Ghantā* (a gong) for an announcement. After stretching a jewelled canopy over the court of the monastery, and ranging perfumed water-jars in rows at the side of the temple, an image of either gold, silver, copper or stone is put in a basin of the same material, while a band of girls plays music there. The image having been anointed with scent, water with perfume is poured over it....,.....After having been washed, it is wiped with a clean white cloth; then it is set up in the temple where all sorts of beautiful flowers are furnished."¹ These rites, however, were to be performed "by the resident members under the management of the priest in charge."² Hence we may call this rite a public-rite.