Ayudha

Ayudha

आयुध, āyudha

Ayudha is usually translated as “weapon,” but in the shilpa-shastras (manuals for artists and architects) this term refers to any object in the hands of a murti. Ayudhas symbolize the nature, character, and functions of the deity.

Each of the ayudhas means a specific aspect or concept. For example, a mirror signifies a clear mind and awareness; the flag signifies victory or celebration; ankusha (elephant driver's hook) means exercising control over the senses and base instincts; damaru (drum) in Shiva's hands means the creation and origin of sound; the scepter signifies the power and authority of the law.

The dhyana-shlokas associated with each deity determine the ayudhas in his right or left, upper or lower hand. The number of ayudhas related to peaceful deities is usually even.

Apart from weapons, various objects are used as ayudha. These include tools of various trades (handle, chisel, hammer, plow, sickle, etc.), musical instruments (flute, veena, drums, pipes, etc.), plants and trees (ashvatta, bilva, rice seedlings, herbs, etc.) and various objects (mirror, bell, book, flag, lamp, vase, umbrella, etc.).