The Sundhya, or, the Daily Prayers of the Brahmins/Plates 13 & 14

←

Plate 12

The Sundhya, or, the Daily Prayers of the Brahmins
by Sophie Charlotte Belnos

Plates 13 & 14

Plate 15

→

2284069The Sundhya, or, the Daily Prayers of the Brahmins — Plates 13 & 14Sophie Charlotte Belnos

PLATES 13 & 14.

These vessels are indispensable in all their religious ceremonies, and are 16 in number, viz.

Shunkh.—The conch-shell.

Artee is borne by the figure of Balgovind, an attendant on the Gods: he holds five brass lamps, which are lighted in particular ceremonies. The Devotee gives it a circular movement as he holds it up before the image of the Deity worshipped, so as to throw the rays of the light equally on every part.

Ghunta.—(Bell). The figure on the top represents one of their angels. The bell is rung when the conch is blown: this is done to call the attention of the Gods.

Urgha.—A copper vessel used in the ablutions of the images.

Dhoopdan.—For burning incense before the image.

Abkhora.—A ewer for presenting drink-offerings to the Gods.

Nundee.—The humped bull on which Mahadeo rides.

Sumputnee.—A copper vessel used also in presenting offerings.

Kuttoree.—Also of copper, to give offerings of flowers.

Thalee.—A large brass round dish for offering fruits and sweetmeats.

Dhoopdanee.—A smaller brass vessel for offering incense.

Laghupatra.—A small brass cup to mix up sandal in.

Singhasan.—The chair or seat for the images or idols.

Brihut Achamani.—A large spoon, to offer water to the Deity.

Laghu Achamani.—To offer water to the Deity, to cleanse his mouth.