The Hindu : Power of the Lord's images in temples

Online edition of India's National Newspaper
Saturday, Apr 26, 2003

Miscellaneous

Miscellaneous - Religion

Power of the Lord's images in temples

CHENNAI APRIL 26. For devotees who throng the temples to be in communion with God, the idols enshrined therein are not only alive but are even ready to listen to their pleas. These worthy images have gained the power as they have been made strictly according to scriptural specifications and have started "breathing" after due consecration following elaborate rites. In their presence, some saints have gone into such a height of ecstasy, they had declared that they would not be so moved even if they were taken to God's abode. Certain extraordinary factors make the idols in some places look more dazzling.

Firstly the priests, who are privileged to conduct the rites daily, should have done so with deep interest, commitment and reverence. Secondly, the festivals listed, according to tradition, should have been conducted with all grandeur. The third refers to the nature of jewels and flowers and the dress used to adorn the deities. The next is about the offerings (Prasadams) made on various occasions, as per the customs and the methods of distributing them (to the needy). Then the hymns and "mantras" should have been clearly spelt out. Above all the temple precincts should have been kept clean and properly maintained. For collecting funds from the public towards renovation or putting up fresh constructions, care should be taken for accurate accounting, avoiding expenses on "extraneous considerations" and giving no room for misappropriation.

The idol of Varadaraja in Kanchi has come to be praised for its charm, its readiness to grant boons and wipe out the tears of those who come to it. Noted among the hymns on the Lord are those by Veeraraghava Mudaliar, Krishna Leela Sukar, Koorathazhwan and Vedanta Desika. Their plaint includes an appeal to forgive their "sinful" deeds, fully conscious that even should God show His displeasure at their weaknesses, the Divine Mother would ask Him to ignore them, said Sri V. Srivatsankachariar in a discourse. Scriptures tell us how God's intention is never to give punishment but only to reform an erring soul. Many people advised Ravana to desist from his mad venture but since he refused to heed them, he had to be dealt with severely. "My devotees will never commit mistakes" is the firm conviction of the Divine Mother.

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