In Dreams

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The appearance of a pair of figures with gentle faces is auspicious; seeing them on a wall in a dream brings grace from the gods. Verse 32 In the southeast, the serpent-king Naga brings happiness. In the southwest, a single figure is not advised. In the south, one should avoid madness or intoxication original: "unmatta", while in the north, water elements are favored. Verse 33 Without the eyes and the horse, the directions are weakened. Saturn and Mars influence the chambers; where they reside, one should not place fruiting trees. Verse 34

If only the head of a figure is seen, it signifies a loss of wealth. An injury to the head brings disease; an injury to the tail brings general loss. If the belly is sunken, it affects the sons and the grain stores. Verse 35 Therefore, one should ensure the foundation is well-toned and auspicious. In the west, fire and wind must be balanced in the three-fold unity. Verse 36

In the southern corner of the eastern side, a cow-faced figure likely a gargoyle or decorative spout should be placed. To the east, a foundation stone Shila is to be established. Do not place the upper stone to the south. At the base of the wall, the support should be made of gold or jewels. If the head or tail are smeared improperly, or if the proportions are deficient, it leads to the destruction of the lineage. Verse 37

The gods of the household are said to reside in the east. For the purification of the site, a second ritual is required. Following that, a pleasant sound should be offered. At the time of sinking the foundation, an offering of five types of grain Panchadhanya is necessary. Verse 38 Trees that are thorny or milky should be kept far from the house. In the field, the trumpet-flower, the banana, and the jasmine are permitted, as is—

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—the screw-pine Ketaki. Trees dedicated to the fierce gods Rudra bring disease if planted too close. One should know the master of the house is protected when the trees are placed according to the rules of the Lord Hara/Shiva. Verse 39 The destruction of trees leads to the destruction of progeny. Near the wall, one should not use wash-water or impure substances. Verse 40 Even on a new wall, if it is ugly or cracked, the power of the household deities Vastu-purusha is diminished. Verse 41

In the middle of the serpent-path, five marks or "tilakas" should be made. Pomegranate, citron, and wood-apple trees are auspicious in the north. The Banyan and the Peepal sacred fig should be avoided near the immediate dwelling. Verse 42

Shri Rama

The flow of the Ganges and the breath of the Lord are the lineage of this knowledge. If the garden is touched by the wind of the forest, it is said to be a cause of ruin unless it follows the sacred law Dharma. Verse 43 A building that turns to the left counter-clockwise is called the "Way of Yama" the God of Death; it leads to the loss of limbs and wealth. A house that rises correctly brings carriages, men, and riches. Verse 44

The hands, the joints, and the face are described by the great sages. For the best of men, the measurements are precise. With flowers and offerings, the fingers and feet of the carved figures are consecrated. If the wood is split or the grain is knotted, it brings obstacles. Verse 45 The belly should be well-formed and beautiful...