Tilaka
In Hinduism, the tilaka, also spelled tilak, is a mark worn on the forehead and other parts of the body, as the sign of God. As used by Vaishnavites (Vaishnavas) it is called the urdhva-pundra.
It has two vertical lines (sometimes with another intermediate line)
variously connected at the bottom, from simple U shape to a form of Tulasi leaf. Other types of tilaka are three horizontal lines (tripundra) used by Saivites and one vertical line or dot used by Shaktas. It has a distinguishing, protective and decorative function. Vasudeva Upanishad gives a detailed information.
The tilaka is may be made with sandal paste, ashes or another cool substance. Typically Saivites use ashes, Vaishnavites
apply sandal paste, and Shaktas use kumkuma, or powdered red turmeric.
The tilaka is most prominently applied to the ajna chakra,
which is part of the forehead between the eyebrows. This represents the
location at which the spiritual eye opens. Saivas apply the three
horizontal lines with the ashes sacred to Siva in his capacity as destroyer of corruption.
The ritual use of painted marks is also to be found in other religious traditions, ancient and modern. In and Africa similar marks were used by Mediterranean worshippers of Helios in Heliopolis, South Egypt (Thebes), etc.
References
Keel, Othmar; Uehlinger, Christoph. Gods, Goddesses, and Images of God in Ancient Israel. Continuum International Publishing Group London, UK. 1998. ISBN 0567085910
Entwistle, A.W. Vaishnava tilakas: Sectarian marks worn by worshippers of Vishnu (IAVRI bulletin). International Association of the Vrindaban Research Institute, 1981. ISBN B0007BNJJ6
External links
Near East, Europe:
India:
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