Geometry In Religion

Gazing at the surface of multiple religions may prove difficult when identifying cohesions, however, once a profound look is taken, revelation of similarities among the disparity pervades. Islam emphasizes adherence to religious tradition and requires steadfast devotion of the believer. Hinduism evokes the air of liberality in interpretation of spiritual custom while simultaneously holding devout dedication to beliefs. Certainly, these are two vastly different religions, but deeper examination reveals parallel concepts specifically within their respective traditions of prayer and spiritual artwork. While unity can be found, it may be with different lenses that each faith views similar religious aspects. Subsequently, each religion is beautiful,

Islam employs the use of geometry as a primary form of artistic expression, linking through impression the omnipotence and omnipresence of Allah, inciting the viewer to see Allah’s permeation of all existence. Hinduism employs both geometry and imagery; with imagery commanding a prevalent role in ornamentation. Hindu connection is made in the representation of the infinite divine through Islam’s geometry, easily observed in the mosque window; similarly, Hindu’s artistic mandala, a geometric illustration, is not merely decorative as it is used to construct ritual altars as well as assisting in the composition of temples, also signifying the sacred interminable universe while correspondingly inciting the presence of divine deities (Gaeffke). Significantly, yantras, are found in Hindu art as well, geometric diagrams present in “paintings and used in meditation” (Molloy 106), these ornate, yet meaningful, renderings are exceptionally impressive. While Hindus can relate with the similarities in Islam’s artistic geometry, their use of this art form takes an understated role as vast competing forms of means and mediums are used to portray their sacred faith in more opulent and extravagant ways. Hindus may find the emphasis of geometry as a primary religious art form lackluster as it would seem to underrepresent the magnificence of the Creator of the universe, in comparison with the inspirational sculpture that

The mihrab is found in mosques worldwide and is easily identifiable as the intricate detailed archway surrounding the shallow skillfully embellished indentation is distinct (Weisbin). Islam’s decorative archways could be linked to the expansion of Islam into other demographics and cultures. Islam’s substantial presence in the ancient world, as a new and upcoming force both religiously and politically, brought about the enlargement of their territory extending into Persia, the Byzantine Empire and beyond, where new influences were found, definitively in the area of architecture, sparking Islam’s interest and imitation. Islam had no architecture of its own as a novice community; once their territory had increased, however, it became important to Muslims that they be recognized as a legitimate power and authority. Taking inspiration from the structural design left behind by the Greeks and Romans in Persia and Byzantium they began to emulate and elaborate on design and stylized construction (Drew par. 8,9). Beautiful mosques were erected displaying detailed archways which over time developed into an art form in itself as various designs from simple to elaborate were employed in constructive style (Saoud). “Building on the round archways left