Shloka 23

Shivamurti–Pratishtha Phala: Shivalaya-Nirmana, Kshetra-Mahatmya, Tirtha-Snana, and Mandala-Vidhi

Devanagari script

द्राविडं नागरं वापि केसरं वा विधानतः कूटं वा मण्डपं वापि समं वा दीर्घम् एव च

Transliteration

drāviḍaṃ nāgaraṃ vāpi kesaraṃ vā vidhānataḥ kūṭaṃ vā maṇḍapaṃ vāpi samaṃ vā dīrgham eva ca

Translation

According to the prescribed rules, one may fashion it in the Drāviḍa style or the Nāgara style, or with the Kesara type of superstructure; and one may also construct either a kūṭa (shrine-tower) or a maṇḍapa (pavilion), proportionate—either of equal measure or extended in length.

Word by Word

• द्राविडम्: Drāviḍa (southern temple style)

• नागरम्: Nāgara (northern temple style)

• वा अपि: or else/also

• केसरम्: Kesara-type (a specified architectural form/cresting)

• वा: or

• विधानतः: according to rule/ordinance

• कूटम्: kūṭa (shrine-tower/peak)

• वा: or

• मण्डपम्: maṇḍapa (pillared hall/pavilion)

• वा अपि: or also

• समम्: equal/proportionate

• वा: or

• दीर्घम्: long/extended

• एव: indeed

• च: and

Speaker

Suta Goswami (narrating Shiva-puja and temple/linga installation norms to the sages of Naimisharanya)

Characters & Entities

• Shiva

FAQs

What is the importance of this verse in the context of Linga worship?

It legitimizes multiple orthodox architectural options (Drāviḍa, Nāgara, etc.) for building the sacred setting of the Linga, emphasizing that correct vidhi (rule) and proportion sanctify the worship-space for approaching Pati (Shiva).

How does this verse describe the nature of Shiva (Shiva-tattva)?

By allowing diverse forms of shrine-design while keeping to prescribed order, the verse implies Shiva-tattva as one and universal, approachable through many sanctioned forms—yet realized through disciplined observance that purifies the pashu from pāśa.

What ritualistic or Yogic practice is highlighted here?

Pūjā-vidhi in the form of prāsāda/maṇḍapa construction and proportionate layout—supporting steady worship, mantra, and inner Pāśupata discipline within a properly consecrated space.