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Yantra
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For other uses, see Yantra (disambiguation).

Sri Yantra by Harish Johari using traditional colors

Yantra (यययययय) (Sanskrit) (literally "machine, contraption"[1]) is a mystical

diagram, mainly from the Tantric traditions of the Indian religions. They are used for
 the worship of deities in temples or at home; as an aid in meditation; used for the
benefits given by their supposed occult powers based on Hindu astrology and tantric
texts. They are also used for adornment of temple floors, due mainly to their aesthetic
and symmetric qualities. Specific yantras are traditionally associated with specific
deities.
Representations of the yantra in India have been considered to date back to 11,000-
10,000 years BP.[1] The Baghor stone, found in an upper-paleolithic context in the Son
Rivervalley, is considered the earliest example[2] by G.R. Sharma, who was involved in
the excavation of the stone (it was dated to 25,000 - 20,000 B.P.). The triangular-
shaped stone, which includes triangular engravings on one side, was found daubed in
ochre, in what was considered a site related to worship. Worship of goddesses in that
region was found to be practiced in a similar manner to the present day.[3] Kenoyer,
who was also involved in the excavation, considered it to be associated with Shakti.[4]
In Rigvedic Sanskrit, it meant an instrument for restraining or fastening, a prop,
support or barrier, etymologically from the root yam "to sustain, support" and the -
tra suffix expressing instruments. The literal meaning is still evident in the medical
terminology of Sushruta, where the term refers to blunt surgical instruments such as
tweezers or a vice. The meaning of "mystical or occult diagram" arises in the medieval
period (Kathasaritsagara, Pancharatra).[5]
Madhu Khanna in linking mantra, yantra, deva, and thought forms states:

Mantras, the Sanskrit syllables inscribed on yantras, are essentially "thought

forms" representing divinities or cosmic powers, which exert their influence by
means of sound-vibrations.[6]

Usage and meaning

Structural elements and symbolism
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Last edited 1 month ago by Bender the Bot

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