Devala-smriti (critical study)
by Mukund Lalji Wadekar | 1982 | 67,394 words
This essay represents an English study of the Devala-smriti—an ancient text attributed to sage Devala classified as belonging to the Dharma-Shastra branch of Indian literature which encompasses jurisprudence and religious law. This study deals with the reconstructed text of the Devalasmriti based on surviving references, emphasizing Devala’s unique...
4.1. Mention of Akshamala
[Full title: (B) The distinctive social features; (I) Ashramadharma, Brahmacari (1): Mention of Akshamala].
The author mentions various articles that are necessary for the vedic study of the brahmacari. The mention of aksamala, among them is significant. The words of the text suggest that it is quite essential for the brahmacari. The word 'aksamala' is to be construed with the term 'dharnam occurring at the end of the a compound. Thus it would mean actually 'holding or wearing the 18 aksamala'. But wearing of garlands is always prohibited by smrtis including the present text. However, according to Devala, aksamala was at least indispensible for the vedic study of the brahmacari. But such a rule is not generally found elsewhere. Aksamala means 'a rosary, string of beads' (Akaradiksakarantah aksah tatkrta tatpratinidhibhuta va mala). It is made of rudraks a seeds, corals, crystals, rubies, gems etc. Devala has not specifically mentioned the material utilized for the aksamala, in the present context. But it must be of rudraksa seeds in kalpane'
692 the present case. Moreover, the word aksamala is generally used for the rosary of rudraksa seeds & not for garlands of other materials. Under the influence of tantras, the deities are described to have aksamala on their hands. In short, Devala's reference to aksamala indicates the saivite & tantric influence on the present text. indicates the saivite & tantric influence