Until they are consecrated, they are
not thought to be of any value. They are looked upon as senseless. A
wealthy family can always receive the services of one or more Brahmins,
and a few of the poor may unite and secure the services of one of them.
At length the solemn hour arrives. The Brahmin, with the leaves of a
sacred tree, comes near the image. With the two forefingers of his
right hand he touches the breast, the two cheeks, the eyes, and the
forehead of the image, at each touch saying the prayer, "Let the spirit
of Durga descend and take possession of this image." By such ceremonies,
and by repeating various _muntrums_, it is supposed that the Brahmins
have the power to bring down the goddess to take possession of the
image. Having been thus consecrated, it is believed to be a proper
object of worship. Having eyes, it can now behold every act of worship
which is made; having ears, it can be delighted with music and with
songs; having a nose, it can smell the sweet perfumes which are offered;
having a mouth, it can be delighted with the rich food which is prepared
for it.
After the image is consecrated, the worship begins. The devotee comes
near the image, and falls down before it.
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