Murti

Men carving stone idols or murti. Mahabalipuram. 2010

Creation of Durga Idol at kumartuli

6th century Mother Goddess Matrika murti, India

জী. ডি. ব্লক সল্টলেক দূর্গা পুজো ২০১৮

Ganesha BhaktiFestWest 20170910

Murti refers to an image, statue, or idol of a deity or person in Indian culture. In Hinduism, Jainism, and Buddhism, murtis are an integral part of religious practices. These images are not merely representations but are believed to embody the divine spirit of the deity they represent. Worship of murtis, also known as Pratima Puja, is a way for devotees to offer their reverence, prayers, and rituals directly to the divine.

Origins and Significance

The tradition of murti worship can be traced back to ancient times, with archaeological evidence suggesting its presence in the Indus Valley Civilization. The Vedas, ancient sacred texts of Hinduism, do not explicitly mention idol worship, but the practice became prominent in later texts like the Puranas and Agamas. These texts provide detailed instructions on the creation, consecration, and worship of murtis.

In Hinduism, murtis are not just artistic representations but are considered manifestations of the divine. They serve as a focal point for devotees to concentrate their devotion, prayers, and meditation. The philosophy behind murti worship is that it helps in spiritual progress by aiding the devotee in visualizing the abstract form of the divine.

Jainism and Buddhism also have rich traditions of murti worship, with statues of Tirthankaras and the Buddha playing a central role in religious practices. These traditions emphasize the inspirational and devotional aspects of murti worship, viewing it as a means to progress on the spiritual path.

Types of Murtis

Murtis can be made from a variety of materials, including stone, wood, metal, and clay. The choice of material, size, and form of the murti is often dictated by religious texts and local traditions. Murtis can range from small, portable images for personal worship to large, elaborate statues installed in temples.

There are specific iconographic guidelines for the creation of murtis, detailing everything from the posture and facial expressions to the number of arms and the attributes they hold. These guidelines ensure that the murti accurately reflects the characteristics and qualities of the deity it represents.

Worship and Rituals

The worship of murtis involves several rituals, known as Puja, which can vary widely among different communities and regions. Common elements of puja include offering flowers, fruits, incense, and lamps to the murti, as well as the chanting of mantras and hymns. The rituals are meant to honor the deity, express devotion, and receive blessings.

Special ceremonies are also conducted to consecrate new murtis, a process known as Prana Pratishtha, which is believed to invoke the divine presence into the image. Once consecrated, the murti becomes a living embodiment of the deity, capable of receiving worship and offering blessings to devotees.

Cultural and Social Impact

Murti worship plays a significant role in the cultural and social life of communities. Festivals and processions featuring elaborately decorated murtis are common in many regions, drawing together people from diverse backgrounds in celebration and worship. These events not only have religious significance but also serve to strengthen community bonds and cultural identity.

Controversies and Criticisms

The practice of murti worship has been subject to criticism and controversy, both historically and in contemporary times. Some schools of thought within Hinduism, such as certain branches of Vedanta, have emphasized the formless aspect of the divine and criticized idol worship as inferior or misguided. Additionally, iconoclastic movements in history, including certain Islamic and Christian campaigns, have targeted murti worship, leading to the destruction of many religious images and temples.

Despite these challenges, murti worship remains a deeply ingrained and vibrant part of many religious traditions, reflecting the diverse ways in which the divine is understood and revered.