The Parasara Agama is one of the main and oldest Agamas in the Shaiva tradition of Hinduism. It is considered to be a fundamental text that provides guidance on temple construction, rituals, and worship practices. It is attributed to the sage Parasara, who is also known for his authorship of various other Hindu texts.
The Parasara Agama is divided into several sections or chapters, each covering various aspects of temple rituals and practices. The following is a summary of its contents, highlighting the main topics covered in each section:
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Sthala Puranas: This section focuses on the legends and mythology associated with specific sacred places and temples. It narrates the divine stories behind the creation and significance of these locations.
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Agama Pramana: This chapter provides the principles, sources, and authority of the Agama texts, establishing their importance and authenticity. It explains the divinity behind the Agamas and their relevance in temple rituals.
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Kriya Padhati: This section deals with the practical aspects of temple construction, including architectural guidelines, measurements, and specifications. It covers various elements such as the foundation, walls, doors, pillars, and the layout of the temple complex.
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Devalaya Vastu: This chapter focuses on the science of temple construction and the principles behind Vastu Shastra. It provides detailed instructions on the dimensions, proportions, and placement of different parts of the temple, including the sanctum sanctorum, mandapas (halls), and subsidiary shrines.
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Puja Vidhi: This section elaborates on the rituals and worship practices to be followed in the temple. It includes information on the daily, weekly, and annual rituals, as well as details about the offerings, mantras, and prayers to be performed during worship.
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Diksha Vidhi: This chapter explains the procedures and rituals associated with initiation (diksha) into the Shaiva tradition. It covers the various stages of initiation, the role of the guru, and the significance of receiving spiritual knowledge and empowerment.
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Nitya Karma: This section describes the daily practices and duties to be carried out in the temple. It includes details about ritualistic bathing, dressing, and adorning the deity, as well as the performance of arti (light offering) and other daily observances.
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Utsava Vidhi: This chapter focuses on the procedures and rituals for festival celebrations in the temple. It provides guidelines on organizing and conducting various celebrations, including processions, deity adornment, special offerings, and cultural performances.
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Samskara Vidhi: This section deals with the sacraments and rites of passage performed in the temple. It covers ceremonies like the naming of a child, sacred thread ceremony, marriage rituals, funeral rites, and other important life events.
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Prayaschitta Vidhi: This chapter explains the procedures for atonement and expiation of sins. It provides guidelines for purification rituals and methods to rectify any mistakes or violations committed during temple rituals or everyday life.
Overall, the Parasara Agama serves as a comprehensive guidebook for temple construction, ritual practices, and spiritual worship in the Shaiva tradition of Hinduism. It encompasses a wide range of topics, providing detailed instructions and insights into the ancient traditions and customs associated with temple worship.