Stambha
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A stambha (Template:Langx) is a pillar or a column employed in Indian architecture.[1] A stambha sometimes bears inscriptions and religious emblems.[2]
Religion
In Hindu mythology, a stambha is believed to be a cosmic column that functions as a bond, joining heaven (Svarga) and earth (Prithvi). A number of Hindu scriptures, including the Atharva Veda, feature references to stambhas.[3] In the Atharva Veda, a celestial stambha has been described as an infinite scaffold, which supports the cosmos and material creation.Script error: No such module "Unsubst".
In the legend of Narasimha, an avatara of Vishnu, the deity appears from a stambha to slay the asura Hiranyakashipu. The stambha has been interpreted to represent the axis mundi in this myth by Deborah A. Soifer.[4]
Architecture
Stambhas are popularly employed in Indian architecture. Different stambhas serve different purposes, including the following:
- A dhvaja stambha (flagstaff tower) is placed opposite the main shrine, on an axis with the main deity.
- A kirti stambha (glorious tower) and vijaya stambha (victory tower) are erected to commemorate victories.
- The most well-known stambhas of India are the Ashoka Stambha (Pillars of Ashoka) — erected during the reign of Ashoka, spread across the subcontinent, bearing different types of royal edicts.
- The Adi Purana — a huge manastambha — stands in front of the samavasarana of the tirthankaras, which is regarded to causes entrants to a samavasaranaTemplate:Clarification needed to shed their pride.[5]
Gallery
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Kirti Stambha of Hutheesing Jain Temple
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The stambha of Parshwanath Jain Mandir, Belgachhiya
See also
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- Related topics
- Other similar topics
References
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- Dictionary of Hindu Lore and Legend (Template:ISBN) by Anna Dallapiccola.