Shloka 51

Matsya Purana — Solar Dynasty Prelude: Vivasvān–Saṃjñā–Chāyā

Devanagari script

श्यामगौरेण वर्णेन हंसवारणगामिनी कार्मुकभ्रूयुगोपेता तनुताम्रनखाङ्कुरा //

Transliteration

śyāmagaureṇa varṇena haṃsavāraṇagāminī kārmukabhrūyugopetā tanutāmranakhāṅkurā //

Translation

She is of a complexion that blends dusky and fair hues; her gait is graceful like that of a swan or a noble elephant. She is adorned with a pair of eyebrows curved like a bow, and her slender nails have a delicate coppery-reddish tint.

Word by Word

• śyāma-gaureṇa: with a dusky-and-fair (mixed) complexion

• varṇena: by color/complexion

• haṃsa-vāraṇa-gāminī: having a gait like a swan and an elephant (graceful yet dignified)

• kārmuka-bhrū-yuga-upetā: endowed with a pair of eyebrows like a bow

• tanu: slender/delicate

• tāmra: coppery/reddish

• nakha-aṅkurā: whose nails are like tender sprouts (i.e., small, refined, well-formed nails)

Speaker

• Lord Matsya (instructing Vaivasvata Manu on iconographic characteristics)

Entities Mentioned

• Goddess (Devī)

Tags

• Iconography
• Pratima Lakshana
• Divine Beauty
• Temple Art
• Vastu Shastra

FAQs

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

This verse does not address pralaya; it focuses on pratīmā-lakṣaṇa—ideal physical markers used to portray a देवी-form in sacred art.

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

Indirectly, it supports dharma through correct patronage: a king or householder who commissions temples and images should follow śāstric iconography so worship remains scripturally aligned and ritually effective.

What is the architectural or ritual significance mentioned here?

It provides sculptural/visual specifications (complexion, gait, eyebrows, nails) used by temple architects and artisans to craft a ritually valid देवी-pratimā suitable for installation and worship.