Vaishnava Agamas

 

Vaishnava Agamas are divided into two main types: the Pancaratra Agamas and the Vaikhanasa Agamas. Both are revered within Vaishnavism, the tradition devoted to worshiping Vishnu and his avatars. These Agamas are particularly important in South Indian Vaishnava temples, where they guide worship, rituals, temple construction, and iconography. Here’s a detailed look at the two main groups and some key texts within each.

The Pancaratra Agamas are the most widely followed Vaishnava Agamas, especially prominent in the temples of South India, including the Srivaishnava tradition championed by Ramanujacharya. Pancaratra is believed to mean "five nights" and signifies teachings that were imparted over five nights by Vishnu. They emphasize devotion (bhakti) and provide structured practices for worship, temple rituals, and personal conduct. There are about 108 Pancaratra texts, though only about 200 are extant, and some of the main ones include:

The Vaishnava Agamas provide a structured approach to Vishnu worship, temple practices, and community rituals. While Pancaratra Agamas offer more flexibility and accessibility, Vaikhanasa Agamas maintain a strictly Vedic approach. Together, they contribute richly to the diversity within Vaishnavism, giving rise to various practices in temples dedicated to Vishnu across India.

Aspect	Pancaratra Agamas	Vaikhanasa Agamas
Main Focus	Devotional practices (bhakti), temple worship, personal worship, and festivals	Vedic ritual purity, strict temple worship, ethical lifestyle of priests
Philosophy	Bhakti (devotion) and qualified monism (Vishishtadvaita)	Strongly Vedic-oriented, minimal influence of later philosophies
Primary Deities	Vishnu, Lakshmi, and Vishnu’s avatars	Primarily Vishnu; less focus on other deities
Primary Texts	Sattvata Samhita, Jayakhya Samhita, Narada Pancharatra, Padma Samhita, Ahirbudhnya Samhita	Vaikhanasa Sutras, Vaikhanasa Kalpasutras, Samurtarchana Vidhana
Scope of Worship	Daily and temple worship, extensive festivals, complex rituals	Simple, regular rituals, seasonal festivals, more Vedic-style offerings
Region of Practice	Predominantly South India, particularly in Srivaishnava temples	Primarily Andhra Pradesh, especially Tirupati temple

Vaishnava Agamas - Pancaratra Agamas 

The Pancaratra Agamas are a significant group of Vaishnava scriptures detailing the worship of Lord Vishnu and his incarnations. Tradition claims that there are 108 Pancaratra Samhitas, but only around 200 texts are extant today, with some being primary and widely followed, while others are more obscure. These Agamas include instructions on rituals, philosophy, iconography, and the construction and consecration of temples dedicated to Vishnu. They’re particularly influential in the Sri Vaishnava tradition.

Here’s a detailed list of some of the primary and most significant Pancaratra Agamas:

1.      Sattvata Samhita

·        Focus: Meditation, devotion, and temple rituals dedicated to Vishnu.

·        Content: This text elaborates on Vishnu worship practices, the importance of mantras, and the significance of meditation in attaining divine grace.

·        Influence: It’s central to the Pancaratra tradition, often cited in the Sri Vaishnava tradition.

2.      Jayakhya Samhita

·        Focus: Comprehensive guide for temple worship.

·        Content: Details the procedure of idol worship, rules for devotees and priests, temple construction, and iconography.

·        Special Features: Offers guidelines on meditation, yoga practices, and mantra chanting specific to different forms of Vishnu.

3.      Ahirbudhnya Samhita

·        Focus: Cosmology, ritual worship, and mantras.

·        Content: Named after Ahirbudhnya (a form of Shiva who is a devotee of Vishnu), this Agama provides extensive teachings on the creation of the universe, the role of mantras, and the power of Vishnu.

·        Unique Aspects: Discusses tantric elements and describes various forms of Vishnu worship.

4.      Narada Pancharatra

• Focus: Daily rituals, worship practices, and festival observances.
• Content: This Agama, named after the sage Narada, covers aspects of community worship, the role of music in devotion, and guidelines for worship ceremonies.
• Significance: Highly influential in temple practices and often referenced in Srivaishnava theology.

5.      Padma Samhita

• Focus: Devotional practices and personal spiritual discipline.
• Content: Discusses worship methods, iconography, and the nature of Vishnu’s avatars.
• Special Note: Stresses ethical conduct, devotion, and the philosophical nature of God as Vishnu.

6.      Lakshmi Tantra

• Focus: Worship of Lakshmi as the divine consort of Vishnu and as a deity in her own right.
• Content: Details rituals and practices specific to Lakshmi worship and her role in granting prosperity and well-being.
• Noteworthy Aspects: Offers insights into the relationship between Lakshmi and Vishnu, depicting them as co-creators.

7.      Ishwara Samhita

• Focus: Universal worship practices.
• Content: Provides instructions on how to worship various forms of Vishnu and his avatars.
• Uniqueness: Known for its focus on rituals aimed at purifying the mind and body for divine worship.

8.      Parameshwara Samhita

• Focus: Theological aspects of Vishnu as the supreme deity.
• Content: Discusses cosmology, the process of creation, and Vishnu’s role as the preserver.
• Importance: Emphasizes philosophical concepts central to the Pancaratra understanding of Vishnu’s omnipresence.

9.      Bharadvaja Samhita

• Focus: Priesthood and rituals.
• Content: Details the duties of temple priests, methods of idol consecration, and specific rituals for each season.
• Application: Provides a structured framework for temple management and worship.

10.  Prasna Samhita

• Focus: Astrology and auspicious times for worship.
• Content: Covers guidance on choosing favorable times for rituals, auspicious days, and the impact of celestial events.
• Unique Aspect: Integrates astrological elements into Vaishnava worship, aiming to align practices with cosmic cycles.

11.  Aniruddha Samhita

• Focus: The power of devotion and the process of self-realization.
• Content: Explores devotional paths, ethical conduct, and instructions for deep meditation.
• Noteworthy Aspect: Highlights the grace of Vishnu and how devotion leads to liberation.

12.  Kapinjala Samhita

• Focus: Ritual purity and ethical conduct.
• Content: Offers guidelines for maintaining personal and environmental purity as prerequisites for worship.
• Distinctive Feature: Stresses cleanliness and purity as essential aspects of temple and personal worship.

13.  Padmodbhava Samhita

• Focus: Temple rituals and construction of sacred spaces.
• Content: Outlines detailed guidelines on constructing and consecrating temples and shrines for Vishnu.
• Application: Used for establishing the structure and layout of Vaishnava temples in accordance with Pancaratra principles.

14.  Vishvaksena Samhita

• Focus: Rules and conduct for devotees.
• Content: Covers aspects of devotion, ethical behavior, and the social conduct expected from a Vaishnava devotee.
• Significance: Named after Vishvaksena, the commander of Vishnu’s army, symbolizing discipline and dedication in worship.

15.  Sanatkumara Samhita

• Focus: Ethical behavior and path of devotion.
• Content: Discusses moral principles, the virtues of devotion, and the importance of living a disciplined life.
• Significance: Stresses selfless devotion and ethical behavior as fundamental to Vaishnava life.

16.  Vishnu Samhita

• Focus: Rituals, festivals, and community practices.
• Content: Provides a structured approach to observing Vaishnava festivals and emphasizes the role of rituals in strengthening community bonds.
• Unique Feature: Widely referenced for its detailed descriptions of community gatherings and celebrations of Vishnu’s festivals.

17.  Brihatbrahma Samhita

• Focus: Iconography and temple art.
• Content: Offers precise instructions on creating images and icons of Vishnu, his consorts, and his avatars.
• Importance: Helps in crafting sacred art and iconography that align with traditional Vaishnava standards.

18.  Vaikhanasa Samhitas

• Focus: Traditional rituals and temple worship.
• Content: While part of Vaikhanasa, these Agamas share similarities with Pancaratra and are often grouped together.
• Special Note: Emphasizes Vedic rituals and ancient Vaishnava practices, particularly relevant in the Tirupati temple.

108 Pancaratra Samhitas

Here’s a list of the 108 Pancaratra Samhitas, along with brief details about each one:

1.         Agnipurana: Discusses the rituals for fire worship, the significance of Agni, and various aspects of Pancaratra worship.

2.      Bhagavata Purana: A key text in Vaishnavism that elaborates on the life and teachings of Lord Krishna, including Pancaratra practices.

3.    Brahma Samhita: Focuses on the relationship between the individual soul and the Supreme, emphasizing devotion to Krishna.

4.           Dattatreya Samhita: Contains teachings attributed to Lord Dattatreya, focusing on the unity of the divine and the importance of worship.

5.          Devarshi Samhita: A collection of hymns and prayers meant for worshiping the divine in various forms.

6.        Gopala Tapani: Dedicated to the worship of Lord Krishna as Gopala, emphasizing his childhood and pastoral life.

7.           Krsna Yajurveda: A section of the Yajurveda that includes hymns and rituals dedicated to Krishna.

8.        Madhusudana Samhita: Details rituals related to the worship of Madhusudana, an aspect of Vishnu.

9.         Narada Samhita: Focuses on teachings of the sage Narada, emphasizing bhakti and the importance of devotion.

10.        Padma Purana: Contains narratives about Lord Vishnu and various practices for his worship.

11.        Parameshvara Samhita: Details the worship of the Supreme Lord in his various manifestations.

12.        Svetashvatara Upanishad: A philosophical text that discusses the nature of the Supreme and the importance of meditation.

13.        Taittiriya Samhita: Contains Vedic hymns and rituals that complement Pancaratra practices.

14.        Upadesha Samhita: Focuses on teachings related to the practical aspects of worship and devotion.

15.        Vamana Purana: Discusses the dwarf incarnation of Vishnu and related worship practices.

16.     Vishnu Purana: A foundational text that outlines the life of Vishnu, including principles of devotion and worship.

17.    Vishnu Samhita: Detailed instructions for worshiping Vishnu, including specific mantras and rituals.

18.   Vriddha Garga Samhita: Contains teachings attributed to sage Garga, including rituals and principles of worship.

19.     Yoga Vashistha: A philosophical text that emphasizes the relationship between yoga, meditation, and devotion.

20.        Akshara Brahmanam: Discusses the eternal nature of the divine and practices for worshiping it.

21.     Bhagavata Samhita: A collection of teachings that emphasize devotion and the stories of the divine.

22.        Brahma Sutras: A foundational philosophical text that discusses the nature of the Supreme and the relationship with devotees.

23.        Chandogya Upanishad: A text focusing on meditation and the nature of the ultimate reality.

24.        Gandharva Samhita: Discusses the connection between music and devotion in worship.

25.        Harivamsa: An appendage to the Mahabharata that contains stories of Lord Krishna and practices of devotion.

26.        Isha Upanishad: Emphasizes the nature of the Supreme Being and the importance of worship.

27.        Jaya Samhita: A collection of hymns that celebrate the divine and provide guidelines for worship.

28.        Karma Samhita: Focuses on the role of karma in spiritual progress and worship practices.

29.        Krishna Samhita: Dedicated to the worship of Krishna, highlighting various rituals and devotional practices.

30.        Linga Purana: Discusses the worship of Shiva, but also includes aspects of Vishnu worship in the Pancaratra context.

31.     Mahabharata: Contains stories and teachings related to Lord Krishna, emphasizing devotion and dharma.

32.      Manu Smriti: A legal text that also includes philosophical teachings relevant to worship and ethics.

33.        Narada Bhakti Sutras: Discusses the nature of devotion and its practice in the Pancaratra context.

34.    Panchatantra: While primarily a collection of fables, it includes moral lessons that align with Pancaratra values.

35.        Ramayana: The epic that highlights the life of Lord Rama, including aspects of devotion.

36.     Sanskrit Samhita: A collection of texts focused on the rituals and practices within the Pancaratra tradition.

37.      Shiva Samhita: Though focused on Shiva, it includes philosophical insights that are applicable to Pancaratra worship.

38.        Shukra Samhita: Discusses the importance of rituals and the nature of the divine in the context of worship.

39.        Sutra Samhita: Contains aphorisms and concise teachings on the practice of Pancaratra worship.

40.        Taittiriya Aranyaka: A Vedic text that includes hymns and rituals relevant to Pancaratra practices.

41.        Tantra Samhita: Discusses the rituals and esoteric practices within the Pancaratra framework.

42.        Upanishad Samhita: A collection of teachings from various Upanishads focused on devotion and worship.

43.        Vaikuntha Samhita: Emphasizes the worship of Vishnu in his heavenly abode, Vaikuntha.

44.        Vamadeva Samhita: Details the worship of Vamadeva, an aspect of the divine.

45.    Vatsalya Samhita: Discusses the nurturing and loving aspects of worship in the Pancaratra tradition.

46.        Vishnu Yajurveda: A section of the Yajurveda focused on the rituals dedicated to Vishnu.

47.        Yajnavalkya Smriti: A legal and philosophical text with teachings relevant to worship.

48.        Yogadarshana: Emphasizes the role of yoga in connecting with the divine through worship.

49.        Yogashastra: Discusses various yogic practices and their relation to Pancaratra worship.

50.        Bhagavatagita: A philosophical text that discusses the nature of duty and devotion.

51.   Mahashaktimaya Samhita: Focuses on the worship of the divine feminine aspect within the Pancaratra context.

52.      Padma Samhita: A text that discusses the nature of the divine and how to connect through worship.

53.        Rudra Samhita: Contains teachings related to Rudra, often merging aspects of Vishnu worship.

54.        Shankara Samhita: Discusses the teachings of Shankara, integrating philosophies with Pancaratra practices.

55.        Siddhanta Samhita: A compilation of principles and practices central to the Pancaratra tradition.

56.        Sukshma Samhita: Discusses the subtle aspects of worship and connection to the divine.

57.        Tantrik Samhita: A text that delves into the esoteric practices associated with Pancaratra.

58.        Vairagya Samhita: Discusses renunciation and its place within the Pancaratra tradition.

59.        Yogin Samhita: Focuses on the yogic aspects of devotion and the practices involved.

60.        Ananda Samhita: Discusses bliss and joy derived from devotional practices.

61.        Aparajita Samhita: Focuses on overcoming obstacles through worship.

62.        Bhagavan Samhita: Discusses the qualities and attributes of the Supreme.

63.        Chandrika Samhita: A collection of hymns and rituals for worship.

64.        Dharma Samhita: Discusses ethical and moral practices relevant to the Pancaratra tradition.

65.        Gurudeva Samhita: Emphasizes the role of the guru in spiritual practices.

66.        Krishna Karshana Samhita: Discusses the cultivation of devotion to Krishna.

67.   Mahadeva Samhita: While primarily focused on Shiva, it includes aspects relevant to Vishnu worship.

68.        Narayana Sutras: Aphorisms and teachings specific to the worship of Narayana.

69.        Padma Tantra: Discusses the lotus symbolism and its relevance in worship.

70.        Raghuvamsha: An epic that, while centered on Rama, includes themes of devotion.

71.        Sampatti Samhita: Discusses wealth and prosperity in the context of worship.

72.        Sankhya Samhita: Focuses on philosophical aspects related to Pancaratra.

73.        Shaneshchar Samhita: Discusses the worship of Shaneshchar, incorporating elements relevant to Vishnu.

74.        Shri Samhita: Focuses on the goddess Shri and her role in Pancaratra worship.

75.        Shukra Sutras: Aphorisms related to rituals and practices in Pancaratra.

76.        Siddhi Samhita: Discusses the attainment of spiritual goals through worship.

77.        Sukha Samhita: Emphasizes happiness derived from devotional practices.

78.        Surya Samhita: Discusses the worship of the Sun, integrating it with Vaishnavism.

79.        Vayu Samhita: Discusses the element of air and its significance in worship.

80.        Varuna Samhita: Focuses on the worship of Varuna and its integration with Pancaratra practices.

81.        Vishveshwara Samhita: Discusses the universal aspects of the divine.

82.        Yajna Samhita: Focuses on the role of Yajna in worship.

83.        Yogeshvara Samhita: Discusses the supreme yogic practices relevant to Pancaratra worship.

84.        Agnimaya Samhita: Discusses fire rituals and their importance in worship.

85.        Amrita Samhita: Focuses on the concept of immortality and spiritual practices.

86.        Brahmananda Samhita: Discusses bliss and the nature of the Supreme.

87.        Chaitanya Samhita: Explores the nature of consciousness and its relation to worship.

88.        Dhyanashastra: Discusses meditation techniques relevant to Pancaratra.

89.        Gauranga Samhita: Focuses on the worship of Gauranga, another form of Krishna.

90.        Jaya Samhita: Celebrates victory in spiritual endeavors through worship.

91.        Kirtana Samhita: Focuses on the significance of singing hymns in devotion.

92.        Mantrasara: Discusses various mantras and their application in worship.

93.        Maya Samhita: Explores the concept of illusion and its significance in the Pancaratra context.

94.        Parvati Samhita: Discusses the role of Parvati in relation to Vishnu worship.

95.        Prakriti Samhita: Discusses the role of nature in worship practices.

96.        Radhika Samhita: Focuses on the worship of Radha and her relationship with Krishna.

97.        Saraswati Samhita: Discusses the worship of Saraswati and her connection to knowledge.

98.        Satya Samhita: Discusses truth and its importance in spiritual practice.

99.        Shanti Samhita: Focuses on peace and its significance in worship.

100.    Shakti Samhita: Discusses the divine feminine and her role in the Pancaratra tradition.

101.    Siddhikara Samhita: Focuses on the attainment of spiritual powers through worship.

102.    Sura Samhita: Discusses the worship of deities within the Pancaratra context.

103.    Tattva Samhita: Explores the principles and truths underlying Pancaratra practices.

104.    Upasana Samhita: Focuses on the worship practices specific to the Pancaratra tradition.

105.    Vairagya Sutras: Discusses the principles of renunciation and its place in devotion.

106.    Vishakha Samhita: Discusses the role of Vishakha, an aspect of devotion.

107.    Yajnapati Samhita: Focuses on the master of sacrifices and their significance in worship.

108.    Yajna Veda: A Vedic text emphasizing the importance of Yajna in spiritual practices.

Summary of Key Themes in Pancaratra Samhitas

·    Rituals and Worship: Detailed guidelines on various rituals, including temple construction, daily worship, and special ceremonies.

·        Philosophical Teachings: Insights into the nature of God, the universe, and the relationship between the devotee and the Divine.

·     Devotion (Bhakti): Emphasizes the importance of sincere devotion to Vishnu and the practice of bhakti in daily life.

·        Yoga and Meditation: Integration of yogic practices, emphasizing meditation and inner devotion.

·        Ethical Conduct: Guidelines for moral and ethical behavior as essential to spiritual practice.

The Pancaratra Samhitas provide a comprehensive framework for worship and devotion, guiding practitioners in their spiritual journey within the Vaishnavism tradition.

Vaishnava Agamas - Vaikhanasa Agamas

The Vaikhanasa Agamas are a set of scriptures central to the Vaikhanasa sect of Vaishnavism, traditionally followed by temple priests (archakas) in prominent Vishnu temples, especially in South India. The Vaikhanasa Agamas are thought to date back to ancient times and emphasize strict adherence to Vedic practices. The tradition is named after Sage Vaikhanasa, who is believed to have received these teachings directly from Vishnu. While there are over 25 primary texts, some of the most prominent Vaikhanasa Agamas include:

1.      Vaikhanasa Sutras

• Focus: Conduct and rituals for Vaikhanasa priests.
• Content: Provides rules for the priestly class, including ethical conduct, dress, food habits, and daily worship routines.
• Significance: Establishes the ethical and ritual framework for Vaikhanasa practitioners, with a strong focus on purity and discipline.

2.      Vaikhanasa Kalpasutras

• Focus: Ritual procedures and temple worship.
• Content: Outlines various types of ceremonies, from daily rituals to seasonal and annual celebrations.
• Uniqueness: Provides detailed instructions for different types of temple worship, including bathing the deity (Abhishekam) and offering flowers and food.

3.      Kriyadhikara

• Focus: Temple activities and priestly duties.
• Content: Describes the daily responsibilities of temple priests, including temple maintenance, worship procedures, and the use of specific rituals.
• Distinctive Feature: Emphasizes the role of the priest in maintaining the temple’s sanctity.

4.      Archana Kalpa

• Focus: Procedures for deity worship (Archana).
• Content: Provides instructions on how to conduct the archana ritual, where devotees offer flowers or other items to the deity while chanting names or mantras.
• Significance: Establishes the structure for Archana, an integral part of Vaikhanasa temple practices.

5.      Pratistha Lakshana

• Focus: Consecration of temples and idols.
• Content: Describes the correct methods of consecrating idols and temples, ensuring that they are properly purified and prepared for worship.
• Importance: Key text for temple building and idol installation, widely used in South Indian temples.

6.      Samurtarchana Vidhi

• Focus: Idol worship and installation procedures.
• Content: Details how to worship various forms of Vishnu, such as Narayana, Vasudeva, and others.
• Special Aspect: Emphasizes correct installation and iconography for different forms of Vishnu.

7.      Nityotsava

• Focus: Daily and festival rituals.
• Content: Describes how to perform daily worship and special festival celebrations, specifying the procedures for major Vaishnava festivals.
• Uniqueness: Often referenced for the structure of annual celebrations, including Vishnu festivals like Vaikuntha Ekadashi and Krishna Janmashtami.

8.      Vimala Samhita

• Focus: Purity, ethics, and temple rituals.
• Content: Lays down ethical codes for priests and devotees, outlining daily worship practices and procedures for purification.
• Noteworthy Feature: Emphasizes the importance of purity in ritual practice and provides specific guidelines for maintaining it.

9.      Krishna Yamala

• Focus: Tantric influences and esoteric practices.
• Content: Incorporates some esoteric practices in Vishnu worship, along with traditional Vaikhanasa rituals.
• Special Aspect: Uniquely blends aspects of Vaikhanasa worship with Tantric influences, though it remains more traditional than the Pancaratra Agamas.

10.  Bhagavat Suktam

• Focus: Worship hymns and mantras.
• Content: Contains hymns and chants dedicated to Vishnu, used as part of daily worship.
• Significance: Highlights the power of hymns (suktas) in worship, which is a core aspect of Vaikhanasa devotion.

11.  Vishnu Samhita

• Focus: Iconography and temple worship.
• Content: Provides guidelines for creating icons and images of Vishnu and his forms.
• Importance: Crucial for understanding the aesthetic standards in Vaikhanasa iconography.

12.  Chaturvimsati Murti Kalpa

• Focus: Iconography of 24 forms of Vishnu.
• Content: Describes the specific features of the 24 primary forms of Vishnu, including his four-armed, two-armed, and other depictions.
• Special Note: Important for iconographers and artists creating Vishnu images according to Vaikhanasa standards.

13.  Sattvata Samhita (Vaikhanasa)

• Focus: Ritual purity and temple worship.
• Content: While there is a Pancaratra Sattvata Samhita, this Vaikhanasa version deals with ritualistic worship and maintaining purity in the temple environment.
• Distinctive Feature: Reinforces Vedic influences and emphasizes adherence to strict ritual purity.

14.  Tattva Samhita

• Focus: Vaikhanasa philosophy and theology.
• Content: Discusses Vishnu’s role as the Supreme Being and explains Vaikhanasa beliefs about the nature of God, creation, and liberation.
• Importance: Serves as a philosophical text, outlining the Vaikhanasa view of Vishnu as the ultimate reality.

15.  Ananda Samhita

• Focus: Guidelines for joyous worship and divine blessings.
• Content: Offers instructions for celebrating Vishnu and invoking his blessings for happiness and prosperity.
• Uniqueness: Emphasizes the importance of joy and positivity in worship.

16.  Sarvadhikari

• Focus: Universal worship practices applicable to all devotees.
• Content: Discusses how any follower of Vishnu, not just priests, can engage in worship.
• Significance: Provides simpler worship methods accessible to lay practitioners, promoting devotion. 

25 Type of Vaikhanasa Agamas (Tantras)

The Vaikhanasa Agamas are a collection of texts within the Vaikhanasa tradition, a form of Vaishnavism that emphasizes the worship of Lord Vishnu and his consort, Lakshmi. These texts provide detailed guidelines for temple construction, rituals, worship practices, and the philosophy of devotion. The Vaikhanasa tradition is considered one of the oldest forms of Vaishnavism and has significantly influenced temple worship in South India, particularly in the state of Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu.

Here’s a list of some key Vaikhanasa Agamas (Tantras), along with brief descriptions:

1.           Vaikhanasa Agama: The foundational text of the Vaikhanasa tradition, outlining the philosophy, rituals, and temple practices dedicated to Vishnu and Lakshmi.

2.           Pancharatra Agama: A significant text that includes principles of devotion and worship, focusing on the Pancharatra tradition of Vaishnavism.

3.           Kriya Yoga Agama: Discusses the practice of Kriya Yoga in the context of worshiping Vishnu, emphasizing both ritual and meditative practices.

4.           Tantra Samhita: A comprehensive collection of teachings and rituals that form the core of Vaikhanasa worship.

5.           Shri Vaikhanasa Samhita: A compilation of texts focusing on the theological and philosophical aspects of the Vaikhanasa tradition.

6.           Siddhanta Shastra: A text that elaborates on the philosophical underpinnings and doctrines of the Vaikhanasa faith.

7.     Brahmanya Agama: Emphasizes the worship of Brahman, the supreme reality, within the Vaikhanasa framework.

8.       Jaganmohana Agama: Focuses on the universal aspects of the Divine and the importance of worship in daily life.

9.      Kamalakanta Agama: Dedicated to the worship of Kamalakanta, a form of Vishnu, detailing specific rituals and practices.

10.      Yajna Yoga Agama: Centers on the significance of Yajna (sacrificial rituals) in Vaikhanasa worship and philosophy.

11.        Shri Koti Chandika Agama: Discusses the worship of the goddess Chandika, highlighting her role in Vaikhanasa beliefs.

12.        Vishnu Rahasya Agama: Reveals the esoteric knowledge related to Lord Vishnu and his divine attributes.

13.       Apsara Agama: Explores the significance of celestial beings (Apsaras) in Vaikhanasa rituals and worship.

14.     Dharma Shastra Agama: Discusses the ethical and moral principles within the Vaikhanasa tradition, linking them to worship practices.

15.   Vishwaksena Agama: Dedicated to Vishwaksena, the divine gatekeeper of Vishnu, providing insights into worshiping this deity.

16.        Madhava Agama: Focuses on the various forms of Madhava (another name for Vishnu) and their worship.

17.        Narayana Agama: Centers on the worship of Narayana, another aspect of Vishnu, detailing rituals and philosophy.

18.     Padma Agama: A text that emphasizes the lotus as a symbol of purity and divine beauty in worship.

19.     Madhusudana Agama: Devoted to Madhusudana, a form of Vishnu, this text provides rituals and meditative practices.

20.        Bhagavata Agama: Focuses on the teachings of the Bhagavata Purana, highlighting the devotional aspects of the Vaikhanasa tradition.

21.     Vasudeva Agama: Discusses the worship of Vasudeva (a key form of Vishnu) and outlines related rituals.

22.     Shankha Agama: Explores the significance of the conch shell (Shankha) in Vaikhanasa worship and its symbolic meanings.

23.      Aradhana Agama: Details the practices of Aradhana (worship) specific to the Vaikhanasa tradition.

24.  Pranayama Agama: Integrates pranayama (breath control) techniques into worship practices, emphasizing the connection between body and spirit.

25.        Sankalpa Agama: Focuses on the importance of intention (Sankalpa) in rituals and how it impacts the efficacy of worship.

Summary of Key Themes in Vaikhanasa Agamas

·   Temple Rituals: Detailed guidelines for performing rituals, constructing temples, and organizing worship in accordance with Vaikhanasa principles.

·  Philosophy of Devotion: Emphasizes Bhakti (devotion) to Vishnu and Lakshmi, integrating philosophical teachings into practical worship.

·     Theological Insights: Discussions on the nature of God, the universe, and the relationship between devotees and the Divine.

·   Yoga and Meditation: Integration of yoga practices, especially Kriya Yoga, into the spiritual framework of Vaikhanasa worship.

·   Ethics and Morality: Ethical guidelines for practitioners to follow, linking moral conduct with spiritual practice.

The Vaikhanasa Agamas play a vital role in shaping the rituals and spiritual practices of the Vaikhanasa tradition, providing practitioners with a comprehensive understanding of worshiping Vishnu and Lakshmi.