Shloka 122

Matsya Purana — Navagraha Sacrifice for Planetary Pacification and Prosperity

Devanagari script

द्व्यङ्गुलाभ्युच्छ्रिता कार्या प्रथमा मेखला बुधैः त्र्यङ्गुलाभ्युच्छ्रिता तद्वद् द्वितीया परिकीर्तिता //

Transliteration

dvyaṅgulābhyucchritā kāryā prathamā mekhalā budhaiḥ tryaṅgulābhyucchritā tadvad dvitīyā parikīrtitā //

Translation

The learned prescribe that the first mekhalā (encircling band or moulding) should be made raised by two aṅgulas (finger-breadths); likewise, the second is declared to be raised by three aṅgulas.

Word by Word

• dvi-aṅgula: two aṅgulas (two finger-breadths)

• abhyucchritā: raised/elevated in height

• kāryā: should be made

• prathamā: the first

• mekhalā: girdle-like band/encircling moulding

• budhaiḥ: by the wise/learned authorities

• tri-aṅgula: three aṅgulas

• tadvat: in the same manner/likewise

• dvitīyā: the second

• parikīrtitā: is declared/described.

Speaker

• Lord Matsya (in instruction to Vaivasvata Manu)

Entities Mentioned

• Lord Matsya
• Vaivasvata Manu

Tags

• Vastu Shastra
• Temple architecture
• Measurements
• Pratima-lakshana
• Ritual construction

FAQs

What does this verse reveal about the creation or dissolution (Pralaya)?

This verse does not address pralaya; it focuses on precise architectural proportioning, reflecting how cosmic order (ṛta) is mirrored through exact measurements in sacred construction.

How does this verse relate to the duties of a King or Householder?

It supports dharmic duties by prescribing standardized measurements for building and maintaining sacred or public religious structures—an expected responsibility of rulers and household patrons who sponsor temples and ritual edifices.

What is the architectural or ritual significance mentioned here?

It gives exact heights for two successive mekhalās (encircling bands/mouldings): the first should project/stand 2 aṅgulas high and the second 3 aṅgulas, ensuring correct proportion and visual/ritual correctness in the structure.