Religion and architecture India Religion and architecture

hinduism known as Hindū Dharma in modern Indian languages world's third largest religion following Christianity and Islam No real founder Large number of denominations.

Shiva as Mahadeva in rock-cut temple (Elephanta, India), sixth century - three colossal faces with three different expressions

Focus on equilibrium: Left side represented femininity, creativity, peace Center was balance—equilibrium between two opposing forces Right side represented masculinity, aggression, war A normal Hindu worshiper would never see the statue in this kind of light A worshiper progressed from light into darkness

Light in entrance This representation signified the pilgrim’s journey toward oneness with the universe where there is no longer any semblance of bodily form. Almost complete darkness toward figure of Shiva

Vishnu Temple (Deogarh, India), early sixth century > use of Hindu temple as a residence for a god > more sculptural than architectural

Visvanatha Temple (Khajuraho, India), c. 1000

Temple as Didactic for Religion This temple illustrates how a work of architecture can teach the followers the stories of the religion

Multiple levels leading from earthly, bodily form to higher level of enlightenment and equilibrium

Relief sculptures all around the outside teach stories of the faith