Thankyou so much kalinga for giving me deities of jagannath ji ,balramji and Subhadra Maiya🙏
All Besha Of Shri Jagannath Mahaprabhu
Significance of Neem in Jagannath Idols
05
Jan
Jan
Ancient scriptures like Varahamihira’s ‘Vrihat Samhita’ and Kashyapa’s ‘Shilpashastra’ detail the materials suitable for constructing divine idols, with ‘Daru’ (wood) being highly recommended. The ‘Bhavishya Purana’ advocates for wood in crafting idols of Pravu Suryanarayana (Sun God), listing various auspicious trees like peepul, mahua, deodar, sandal, bel, khadir, anchan, neem, sriparna, jackfruit, arjun, and raktachandan (red sandalwood).
However, the choice of Neem wood for the deities of Mahaprabhu Shree Jagannath temple holds a special significance. The ‘Bhavishya Purana’ states, ‘Nimbadyah Sarvavarnanam Vrikshyah Sadharanah Smrutah,’ meaning that idols made from Neem Daru are suitable for worshippers from all sections of society. This is further supported by the manuscript ‘Pratima Lakshana Soudhagama,’ which declares, ‘Nimba pradhanmetasham pratima chabinirmitou,’ emphasizing Neem as the prime choice among all Daru.
In the Jagannath Temple, individuals from diverse social backgrounds – Brahmin Vidyapati, Kshatriya King Gajapati Maharaja, and tribal Biswabashu descendants – play crucial roles in the deity rituals. Therefore, the use of Neem Daru in crafting the idols ensures their universal appeal and suitability for servitors and worshippers of every caste and class, reflecting the inclusive nature of the Jagannath tradition. The choice of Neem is not just about material suitability but also embodies a profound social and spiritual message of equality and universal acceptance.
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