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RELIGIOUS FESTIVALS
Śaktis, or energies of Siva, who, by virtue of these incantations, are supposed to take up their abode for the time in the different members of the worshipper. Other objects are supposed to be effected by similar means; impediments are obviated by stamping thrice, and repeating as often the Mantra “Haun, to the weapon, plat;” next, with the same inantra, and by thrice snapping the finger, the ten quarters of the sphere, or universal space, are aggregated in the Linga; and the purification of all beings is to be effected by thrice clapping the hands together, and uttering the same Mantra each time. The repetition of nyása, or touching parts of the body whilst repeating mystical ejaculations, accompanies every offering made to the Linga, as fruits, flowers, incense, lights, and the like, during the whole ceremony.
When the rite is performed, as it most usually is, in the perforier's own residence, a Linga, if not already set up, is consecrated for the purpose; and this is to be propitiated with different articles in each watch of the night on which the vigil is held. In the first watch, it is to be bathed witlı milk, the worshipper, or the Brahman employed by him, uttering the Mantra “Haun-reverence to Isána." An offering is then made with the prayer: “Devoutly engaging in thy worship, oh Iswara, and in repeating thy names, I celebrate the Sivaratri rite according to rule, do thou accept this offering *!” Incense, fruits, flowers, * [fTatizada 577997eu: 1
करोमि विधिवद्दत्तं गृहाणाऱ्या महेश्वर ॥]
