Penn in Hand: Selected Manuscripts

Bilvopaniṣad, circa 1700-1850.

1 item (2 leaves) : paper ; 12 x 26 cm.

Manuscript is used for contemplation, study, and recitation and is a Hindu philosophical treatise that expounds upon the nature of the Hindu god Śiva, especially through his manifestation as the bilva tree. Work includes many mantras (words of phrases of power) dedicated to Śiva. Though named a upaniṣad it forms part of a group of medieval works and was often embedded into much larger, purāṇic texts.

Title from colophon (f. 2r).

Written in 13 lines per leaf.

2 leaves foliated 1-2, lower right verso.

Mistakes covered over in yellow or blacked out; some corrections and additions in margins.

Colophon: iti bilvopaniṣat // śrīśivārpaṇam astu // (f. 2r).

UPenn Ms. Coll. 390, Item 879

Collection of Indic Manuscripts. Item 879

Kislak Center for Special Collections, Rare Books and Manuscripts University of Pennsylvania Ms. Coll. 390

बिल्वोपनिषद्, १७००-१८५०.