Shkinta
In Mandaeism, a shkinta or shkina is a celestial dwelling inhabited by uthras in the World of Light that is analogous to the shekhinah in Jewish mysticism. In Tibil, it refers to a reed or mud hut that is used during Mandaean priest initiation ceremonies, since Mandaean priests represent uthras on earth.
Ceremonial usage
During the priest initiation ceremony, the shkinta is constructed to the north of the andiruna. It symbolizes the World of Light and it covered by a white cloth roof. In contrast, the andiruna has a blue cloth roof to symbolize the color of Ruha. Together, the two adjacent huts symbolize complementary masculine and feminine elements.Symbolism
The škinta symbolizes the "male" side, and is associated with the World of Light, priests, the right side, gold, and the taga.In contrast, the andiruna symbolizes the "female" side, and is associated with the earth, laypeople, the left side, silver, and the klila. Similarly, in a traditional Persian house, the women's quarters are known as andirūn.