Significance of Consecration
Consecration in Hinduism encompasses various meanings related to the act of making something sacred. It involves dedicating oneself and offerings to the gods, performing rituals to invoke divine blessings, and purifying objects for ritual use. In Vaishnavism, consecration specifically sanctifies images, while Purana describes it as a process involving rituals for divine acceptance. Dharmashastra highlights the formal dedication of individuals and purification for sacrificial practices. Each tradition emphasizes consecration as a crucial element in achieving spiritual purity and empowerment.
Synonyms: Sanctification, Dedication, Blessing, Anointing, Ordination, Devotion, Sanctity
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Consecration'
In Buddhism, Consecration signifies a formal ceremony that establishes authority, exemplified by Panduvasudeva's delayed coronation due to lacking a consort, highlighting the importance of ritual and preparation in leadership transitions.
Hindu concept of 'Consecration'
Consecration in Hinduism involves dedicating oneself and offerings to the divine, signifying a commitment to sacred rituals aimed at purification, empowerment, and invoking blessings through various ritual actions and mantras.
From: Agni Purana
(1) The spiritual process of making objects or beings sacred and fit for divine service, often performed by an astrologer.[2] (2) The process of making something sacred or holy through rituals and offerings, particularly in relation to the deities.[3] (3) The act of sanctifying objects or hymns for use in rituals.[4] (4) The act of making something sacred through rituals and mantra recitation to invoke divine blessings.[5] (5) The ritual of making something sacred, in this case, involving a tree during an evening worship ceremony dedicated to Lord Shiva.[6]
From: Shiva Purana
(1) The process of making something sacred, typically preceding the performance of rituals.[7]
From: Padma Purana
(1) The sacred act of making something holy, particularly in preparation for rituals or offerings.[8]
From: Skanda Purana
(1) The act of sanctifying offerings and rituals with mantras aimed at ensuring divine acceptance and blessings.[9]
From: Satapatha-brahmana
(1) The act of making something sacred through ritualistic practices.[10] (2) A sacred act performed by the priests, particularly in relation to offerings.[11] (3) The process of dedicating oneself and the sacrificial offerings to the gods, reflecting a spiritual commitment.[12] (4) The act of making something holy or sacred; in this ritual context, it represents the practitioner's desire to be spiritually purified and empowered.[13]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) The act of making something sacred or purifying it, particularly in relation to religious acts.[14] (2) A form of purification designated for animals prior to being used in sacrificial practices.[15]
From: Bharadvaja-srauta-sutra
(1) A sacred process signifying the formal dedication of an individual, typically involving various ritualistic actions.[16]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) Consecration refers to the holy act that sanctifies an image, which may be misunderstood by some as making it different from the Lord.[17]
From: Kashyapa Shilpa-shastra (study)
(1) The act of making something sacred, especially in relation to temples and rituals within the Kriya pada.[18]