Agni Purana — Vastu-Pratishtha & Isana-kalpa, Shloka 53
Adhivāsana-vidhi
Procedure for Preliminary Consecration in Vāstu–Pratiṣṭhā / Īśāna-kalpa
लिङ्गदीर्घविकारांशे त्रिभक्तं भागवर्णनात् विस्तारो लक्ष्म देहस्य भवेल्लिङ्गस्य सर्वतः
liṅgadīrghavikārāṃśe tribhaktaṃ bhāgavarṇanāt vistāro lakṣma dehasya bhavelliṅgasya sarvataḥ
D’après la division proportionnelle en trois parties de la section longitudinale mesurée du liṅga, on détermine la largeur—c’est-à-dire la dimension définissante—du corps du liṅga, uniformément de tous côtés.
Lord Agni (in instruction to sage Vasiṣṭha, in the usual Agni Purāṇa dialogue frame)
Vidya Category: {"primary_vidya":"Shilpa","secondary_vidya":"Vastu","practical_application":"Iconometric determination of a liṅga’s breadth from its length by tri-part proportional division, ensuring uniformity on all sides for correct fabrication/installation.","sutra_style":true}
Encyclopedic Reference: {"reference_type":"Definition","entry_title":"Liṅga-lakṣaṇa: breadth derived from tri-part division of length","lookup_keywords":["liṅga-lakṣaṇa","tāla-māna","tribhakta","vistāra","iconometry"],"quick_summary":"Divide the liṅga’s longitudinal measure into three; from this proportional scheme determine the uniform breadth of the liṅga-body on all sides."}
Concept: Sacred form is governed by measure (māna) and symmetry as carriers of order (ṛta-like regularity)
Application: Use proportional canons to avoid arbitrary sizing; ensure uniform breadth for structural stability and ritual correctness.
Khanda Section: Vāstu-śāstra / Śilpa-śāstra (Liṅga-lakṣaṇa and iconometric measurement)
Primary Rasa: adbhuta
Secondary Rasa: shanta
Visual Art Cues: {"scene_description":"An artisan measures a Śiva-liṅga: marking the length, dividing it into three equal parts, and deriving the uniform breadth; tools like measuring cord, scale, and chalk lines are visible.","kerala_mural_prompt":"Kerala mural: śilpī with measuring cord dividing a liṅga outline into three, assistants holding tools, temple interior suggestion, earthy palette, stylized geometry emphasized.","tanjore_prompt":"Tanjore: central polished liṅga with gold accents on pedestal, artisan measuring with cord and stylus, ornate frame, subtle divine aura indicating sacred craft.","mysore_prompt":"Mysore: technical diagram-like scene—liṅga with tri-part markings, clear measurement lines, artisan demonstrating breadth derivation, fine linework and legible instruments.","mughal_miniature_prompt":"Mughal miniature: workshop with detailed instruments, artisan drawing proportional divisions on stone, patrons/priest observing, architectural depth and meticulous rendering."}
Audio Atmosphere: {"recitation_mood":"instructional","suggested_raga":"Hamsadhwani","pace":"medium","voice_tone":"instructional"}
Sandhi Resolution Notes: भवेल्लिङ्गस्य = भवेत् लिङ्गस्य (त्+ल् → ल्ल्).
Related Themes: Agni Purana 96 (Liṅga and Lakṣmī-related māna rules)
FAQs
It teaches iconometric proportioning: by dividing the liṅga’s lengthwise measure into three parts, one derives the correct uniform width/diameter of the liṅga’s body.
Beyond theology, it preserves practical Śilpa/Vāstu standards—precise construction rules for sacred forms—showing the Purāṇa’s coverage of temple design, measurements, and ritual-ready iconography.
Correct proportioning supports proper installation and worship; a well-formed liṅga is understood to make ritual offerings (pūjā, abhiṣeka) more efficacious and aligned with dharma.