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3
Vastu in Ancient Temple Design |
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Requirements of an Architect
[A] man of quality, he must know how to establish buildings and must be well versed in all the sciences; he must be physically perfect, just, compassionate, disinterested, free from envy, without weakness, handsome, and learned in mathematics; he must know the ancient authors and must be straightforward and master of his senses: he must be able to draw and must know the whole country; he must be generous and not greedy; his health must be good, he must be attentive and free from the seven vices (vices springing from anger and lust), possessor of a well chosen name and persevering; he must have crossed the ocean of the science of architecture.
MAYAMATA, CHAPTER FIVE, VOLUME ONE |
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Vastu considers every temple to be the earth-bound dwelling of God; therefore, the architect's design must reflect the perfect proportions and rhythm that exist in the Creator's own creationthe universe. Every aspect of the temple must speak of harmony and balance. The architect must also design a divine structure so that it accommodates the intense level of spiritual energy that radiates out from the center of the inner sanctum. From the placement of every temple sculpture to the narrow finial on the top, every detail is meant to remind the worshipper of the Truth expressed in the UpanisadsTat Tvam Asi (Thou Art That), we are all a part of the Supreme Creative Force. By meeting these objectives, the temple |
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