The animal in religion.

[Edward Crangle]

Dear Listmembers:

If possible, could you please direct me to relevant literature regarding 
the history, religious context, mode of worship etc. of the following:

My students have referred to a recent magazine-style television 
programme which discussed the depiction and role of animals in religion. 
Amongst other things, the documentary showed a particular Hindu temple 
interesting in the least for its veneration of the humble rat: it seems 
that the rodents occupied the temple precinct in their thousands while 
visitors performed their religious duties etc.

I'm told the temple is named Karnidevi (or Karnimata). (I'm guessing with 
the spelling.) It is located at Deshnok, outside Bikaner in Rajasthan. Any 
assistance in this regard would be greatly appreciated. Many thanks.

Eddie Crangle

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 Dr Edward F. Crangle			E-mail: e.crangle at mailbox.uq.oz.au
 Department of Studies in Religion	Phone:  (7) 3652154
 University of Queensland		Home:   (7) 3719687
 St Lucia				Fax:    (7) 3653071
 Queensland 4072
 Australia
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