Shloka 41
Devatā-Pratiṣṭhā: Maṇḍapa Construction, Dikpāla Worship, Kalaśa-Abhiṣeka, Nyāsa and Homa Procedures
अग्निर्ज्योतीति मन्त्रेण नेत्रोद्वाटं तु कारयेत् / लक्षणे क्रियमाणे तु नामैकं स्थापको व(द) देत्
agnirjyotīti mantreṇa netrodvāṭaṃ tu kārayet / lakṣaṇe kriyamāṇe tu nāmaikaṃ sthāpako va(da) det
With the mantra “Agniḥ jyoti” (“Agni is light”), one should perform the rite of opening the eyes. While the auspicious marks (lakṣaṇa) are being carried out, the sthāpaka priest should utter the Name once for consecration.
Lord Vishnu (in instruction to Garuda/Vinata-putra)
Concept: Light as divine principle; naming and mantra as acts that establish sacred presence and focused devotion.
Vedantic Theme: Jyotis as symbol of cit (consciousness); nāma as a support for dhyāna—form and name guiding the mind toward the Real.
Application: Use a clear intention (name/affirmation) and a 'light principle' (clarity, truthfulness) to inaugurate any meaningful undertaking.
Primary Rasa: adbhuta
Secondary Rasa: shanta
Type: sanctum/pīṭha-maṇḍapa focal point
Related Themes: Garuda Purana 1.48 (netrodvāṭa/netronmīlana with 'agnir jyotiḥ' and nāma-ucchāraṇa in pratiṣṭhā)
FAQs
This verse links the eye-opening rite to Agni as “light,” emphasizing purification and illumination during funeral/post-death procedures, with the mantra guiding the ritual act.
By prescribing precise rites and mantras, the text underscores that correct antyeṣṭi observances support orderly transition and sanctification of the departed’s passage, beginning with ritual actions performed with sacred intent.
If performing or sponsoring last rites, ensure mantras and procedures are done carefully by a qualified officiant, with clarity of intention and respectful naming/identification of the departed as part of the rite.