Theertham

Theertha (Theertha) literally refers to water. In Hindu sacred literature, it is referred to as the physical holy water body associated with a temple or deity.

Sacred Geography

There exist privileged regions and places where energy in the form of terrestrial magnetism rises heavenward. As per Hindu spiritual literature, apAna (downward flowing energy) pulls life downwards, while udAna (levity) pulls life upwards. Such places are called Tirtha (ways), Kshetra (ways) or pitha (base). Sacred geography can identify sacred places and sometimes explain the importance of already known.[1]

The temple should be close to a water course or near a lake located to the east or north. Islands are also favourable places. For the building of a temple, it should have a lake on the left (north) or in front (east), and not otherwise. If the temple is built on an island, the presence of water all around is of good omen.[2] Most of the Hindu temples are associated with a water body, typically a river or one or more Temple tanks.

See also

• Hindu calendar
• Kshetram
• List of Hindu temples
• Tirtha and Kshetra

References

1. The Hindu Temple. Alain Danielou
2. Vishnu Dharmottar Purana, 3.93.30-31