The Sundhya, or, the Daily Prayers of the Brahmins/Plate 15

by Sophie Charlotte Belnos

PLATE 15.

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POOJA OF VISHNOO—POURING WATER UPON THE SALIGRAM.

The Saligram is a small red stone, a kind of Ammonite, found in the River Gunduck; and is held sacred by the Hindoos, and worshipped as an Idol. According to the Poorans, it is dedicated to Vishnoo: it is kept in a small box of any white metal the worshipper may have the means of procuring: iron alone is excluded. The Artee, Dhoopdanee, Thalee, Ghunta, Abkhora, Sumputtee, Kuttoree, red and yellow sandal-flowers, toolsee, betel-leaves, sooparee, areka-nut, jeneo, a piece of cloth to cover the Saligram, sweetmeats, and the shunk, or conch shell, are all necessary in this worship. From this deity the votary supplicates never to be born again in this world. This sign is worn, on the forehead between the eyebrow, and is put on in the Pooja of Vishnoo: it is done with the mud of the sacred stream: many draw it on the breast and arms also. The necklace is of toolsee-seeds.

Translation from the Sanskrit Verses in the Pooja of Vishnoo.

saligram, the type of vishnoo.

Invocation to the Deity.

1st verse. O Deo! O Bhagwan! O Purmeswur! transfer thy omnipotent presence from the realms of ether, and descend to the region of mortals. Approach, O sovereign Deity! Behold, I lay before thee my thank-offerings, that thou mayest at all times be pleased with my works.

2d verse. (Placing the Idol upon the Singhasun, he proceeds)—O Prubhoo! behold, thy chair is made of the purest gold, and it is studded with the most precious gems, and the shape thereof is like unto a lion. Sit thou upon thy throne, even as the earth, which the great serpent Shes-nág bears, is thy footstool.

3d verse. O Deva! behold, for thy ablution I have prepared the water warmed and perfumed with a thousand odoriferous flowers. Accept it, and bathe; and be merciful to thy servant.

7th verse. O Vishnoo! behold, here is raiment for thee, for winter and for summer, of the finest texture, and of costly materials; so that thou being well clothed, thy countenance will shine in beatitude.

8th verse. O Deva! this Jeneo is the one which Brahma hath woven with thread, and the knot of Vishnoo is upon it. O Junardun, accept my offering.

PLATE 15

POOJAH OF VISHNOO
pouring water on the saligram

Day & Son, lith^rs. to the Queen.