Brahmabhāga
From Hindupedia, the Hindu Encyclopedia
By Swami Harshananda
Brahmabhāga literally means ‘part representing Brahmā’.
In the literature connected with temples, this word is used in two senses.
- Firstly, it represents the central part of the plot or the site of the sanctum sanctorum, the outer ones being respectively called daiva, mānuṣa and paiśāca bhāgas (parts pertaining to the gods, human beings and goblins).
- Secondly, it refers to the lowest part of the Śivaliṅga made of stone, which is square in shape and is embedded in the earth. The middle part which is octagonal and is embedded in the pedestal is called Viṣṇubhāga. The cylindrical part projecting outside the pedestal is called Rudrabhāga. It is also called as Pujābhāga since pujā or worship is offered only to this part.
References[edit]
- The Concise Encyclopedia of Hinduism, Swami Harshananda, Ram Krishna Math, Bangalore