History_Ancient_Medieval_Nepal

ut Mahayanists even now form the bulk of the Buddhist
population. They regard Buddha as an incarnation of God and
worship him as such. Tantricism was, however, the main cult
prevalent during the Malla period. Both Hindus and Buddhists
were engaged in TANTRICISM. Almost ail gods and goddesses
were installed and worshipped in conformity with the tenets of
Tantricism, Tulajabhavani, as for example, was worshipped
strictly in accordance with Tantricism. There were veteran
Tantrics as Jamana Gubhaju and others. With the help of
Tantricism they worked wonders. A great havoc was caused to
Buddhism in Nepal by Shankaracharya but because of the to
lerant attitude of the Buddhists they were living in peace with
the Hindus. The Buddhists did not mind going to Pashupati Nath,
Guhyeshwari and worshipping other Hindu gods and goddesses.
The Hindus, too, visited Swayambhu Nath, Matsyendra Nath
and other Buddhist temples. Though politically Nepal was divi
ded into three different kingdoms, they were bound together
socially and culturally. There was cultural unity, though politi
cal unity was lacking.
During the reign of King Ratna Malla, Muslims were
allowed to settle in Nepal and profess their own religion peace
fully. They were not, however, allowed to proselytise and spread
their religion, nor were they allowed to slaughter cows.
People were god-fearing and superstitious. They were
afraid of the wrath of God and believed in ghosts and
spirits.
Both the king and the people had religious bent of mind and
they were charitably disposed. They spent their money in build
ing temples, digging -wells and ponds and in constructing stone
water spouts, rest-houses and so on. Grants of lands were made
available for their proper maintenance and repair and -also for
the annual or daily worship of gods and goddesses. Theft, robbery,
and cheating were almost unknown. Even business trans-
77