Every tradition has a scientific background. It can be affirmatively said that there is no tradition without a scientific basis. Gemmology, considered a recent branch of knowledge, was well known to the ancient sages of Inia. The practice of using gems for therapeutic values was in vogue in ancient Egypt too.

The special method of routine worship called ‘Pancāyatana puja;’ is in fact a procedure in which one can obtain astounding therapeutic results. In this puja, the following deities are worshipped:

a) Bāna shIla, a special stone found in River Narmada is worshipped as Shiva b) Śona shīla, a special stone found in River Shona is worshipped as Ganapati c) Krishna shila is worshipped as Mother Goddess d) Sālagrama shila, found in River Gandaki, is worshipped as Vishnu e) Quartz crystal is worshipped as Sun (Surya).

This signifies the relation and control that a particular deity has over these stones. Ratna shastra, an ancient branch of knowledge of gems, describes the different benefits one gets by preparing the deities with different materials. Even Shilpa shastra (science of sculpture) gives these details. Worshipping idols made of gold and silver bestow prosperity, while those made of copper bestow good health. Quartz idols fulfill desires. Idols made of coral, especially idols of Mother Goddess, bestow power of attraction. By worshipping idols made of sapphire, enemies are eradicated. Ideally idols of Shiva and Sun-god are prepared using quartz crystal. Idols of Mother Goddess are made from coral are more auspicious. To make the idol of Vishnu, Salagrama stone or gold is preferable.

**It must however be remembered that all these virtues occupy only the second place. The first and foremost virtue is in worshipping with devotion! **

If devotion is pure, even idols made of clay can bestow the same results. On the contrary, if one goes on collecting costly idols made from rare stones just to satisfy one’s ego, the worship will yield very little result.

Ordinary householders should worship idols which are the size of one’s fist. However larger idols can be worshipped if they have been handed down through generations are blessed by accomplished saints.

(Bhaktimala May 1998)