Iconology Pancaratra Agama

Iconology of the the Pañcarātra Āgama — Iconology is defined as the study of the symbolism behind sacred images. One of the most prominent tools of devotion in Hinduism is the use of images. These images or icons are made of wood, stone, metal or painted on cloth.

The term generally used by non-Hindus and unfortunately by Hindus themselves when referring to these sacred images is IDOL. This term is actually pejorative — a demeaning, insulting word first used by Christian missionaries who perceived Hinduism in an extremely negative way — describing us as pagans, heathens and idolaters. The use of images is also predominant among Catholics and Eastern Orthodox Christians who refer to sacred images as ICONS to differentiate them from the idols of the heathens.

An icon can be defined as a sacred symbol which embodies a spiritual truth and is worthy of veneration and contemplation. All Hindu icons are visual representatives of God and the Spiritual Forces which support, sustain and direct the Cosmos. The art and symbology of Icons has been developed to an extremely sophisticated degree by the Hindu mind. Each and every feature of an icon has a profound truth behind it, and all the mystical teachings of the sages means of these icons and symbols.

In every issue of this magazine we shall take one particular icon and discuss all its features and symbolic meanings. Icons are the most predominant aspect of our faith and yet the study of their meaning is also one of the most neglected aspects of our religious life.

How can frail mortal human beings, praise, worship and develop a loving relationship with a Being that we cannot understand, know or feel? So God out of His boundless compassion, condescends to take a material form and to manifest Himself to us so that He may receive our offerings, worship, praise and devotion, and in turn can bestow upon us His Grace and blessings. Thus, mankind meets the descending Godhead.