"Meditation Verse" A stanza or verses describing a deity's bodily qualities in order to provide a mental picture for the worshiper to focus on.
Dhyanashlokas are very important in tantra, an esoteric ritual tradition whose goal is to replace all outward acts of devotion with mental activity.
The dhyanashlokas give both a shape and a focus for one's inward devotion in this highly ritualized atmosphere.
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