The Science of Yantra

Each shloka of Soundarya Lahari is a mantra on its own and is associated with a unique Yantra. So, to understand the Mantra, we need to understand what is a Yantra or science behind Yantras.

Yantra has a science associated with its working and benefits.

Yantras are mainly 3 types:

1. Mandala - Flat with geometrical figures
2. Meru - Pyramid shaped and 3-Dimensional 
3. Sankhya - Flat with numbers written

Four basic aspects of Yantras determine how they are used.

1. Symbols used
2. Surface of Drawing
3. Materials used to Draw
4. Benefits of Yantra

SYMBOLS USED IN YANTRAS:

The symbols are made of various geometrical figures combined in varying complexities. Squares, circles, triangles, curves like lotus petals etc are used to depict geometrical figures which have a physiological impact on the geometrical shapes within the human body - namely Chakras. 

Precise geometric arrangements using the simple shapes is a science and is mentioned in detail in Agama and Tantra shastras like Brhad samhita, Mrgendra agama, Yantra chintamani etc.

The word "Agama" means "Arrival". Here it is the arrival of the Divinity. Each geometrical figure represents different aspects of the universe.

• Dot: Usually situated at the center of the Yantra and represents the ruling deity of that Yantra. 
• Circle: The infinite space and expansiveness, Akasha or space element.
• Square: Limited space and rigidity. Earth element.
• Triangle: Upward and downward pointing 
• Upward pointing - Masculine energy. Fire element, upward movement.
• Downward pointing - Feminine energy. Water element, downward movement.
• Lotus petals: Represent energy in the Yantra or a combination of energies that manifest at the center.
• Numbers: Numbers represent different concepts or forms of worship depending on the type and Yantra used.
• Other shapes include Humanoid forms, vehicles, names etc.

Combinations of shapes:

• A combination of upward and downward-pointing triangles represents balance and equilibrium.
• A figure in a clockwise direction represents creation and birth
• A figure in an anti-clockwise direction represents dissolution and death.
• Two squares superimposed to form an octagon represents preservation.

SURFACE OF DRAWING:

• Surface of the Yantra should be flat and should endure any outside disturbance at least until the usage of the Yantra.
• Surface can be made of gold, silver, copper or alloys, usually those that are good conductors of energy.

DRAWING MATERIALS:

Depending on the colours required, various materials are used for drawing the symbols, shapes and figurines to create a Yantra.

• White - rice flour
• Yellow - turmeric powder
• Red - crushed brick
• Green - powdered green gram
• Flowers
• Gem stones
• Engraving the shapes on the surface of the Yantra

MODE OF WORSHIP:

• Worshipping a Yantra is to energize the form and internalize it.
• Flowers, milk, honey, turmeric and Viboothi (sacred ash) are conducive to energizing the Yantra.
• The energy invoked can be Saatvik, Raajasic or Taamasic and the food substances offered accordingly.

यन्त्रम् मन्त्रमयं प्रोक्तं देवता मंत्ररूपिणी

शरीरमिव जीवस्य दीपस्य स्नेहवत् प्रिये

सर्वेषामपि देवानां तथा यन्त्रं प्रतिष्ठितम् ॥

A Yantra, the form, is a representation of Mantra, the sound. A Deity is a manifestation of the Mantra. 

A Yantra is to the deity as the body is to a Being, as oil is to a lamp.

All deities have their corresponding Yantras associated with them.