Significance of Curdled milk
Curdled milk has various meanings and significance in South Asian culture and Dharmashastra. It relates to a dairy processing task assigned to the Gamarala for marriage preparations. In a religious context, it denotes a thickened form of milk considered unfit for consumption, soured milk used in sacrificial rites, and a product that must be churned in the Agnidhra fire-chamber. Additionally, it is associated with the food item ashir, which features in offerings and rituals.
Synonyms: Coagulated milk, Fermented milk
In Dutch: Gestremde melk; In Finnish: Juuretettu maito
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Curdled milk'
In Hinduism, curdled milk symbolizes various aspects of rituals, including its use in sacrificial rites, churning in Agnidhra fire for offerings, and its status as a food item, although fire-contact milk is considered unfit for consumption.
From: Bharadvaja-srauta-sutra
(1) A food item, referred to as ashir, which is mentioned as part of the offerings and rituals.[1] (2) A dairy product that the sacrificer and his wife are instructed to churn in the Agnidhra fire-chamber.[2] (3) Milk that has been soured or thickened, utilized in the sacrificial rites.[3]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) The thickened form of milk that results from contact with fire, which is deemed unfit to be eaten.[4]
From: Satapatha-brahmana
(1) Milk that has been thickened or coagulated, indicating versatility in dairy processing.[5] (2) Processed milk used in the preparation of offerings, expressed in the context of making fresh butter.[6]
The concept of Curdled milk in local and regional sources
Curdled milk is linked to the task assigned to the Gamarala in marriage preparations, emphasizing its role in processing milk as part of traditional ceremonial practices within the community.
From: Village Folk-tales of Ceylon (Sri Lanka), vol. 1-3
(1) A task related to processing milk, which the Gamarala was instructed to undertake for the marriage preparation.[7]
From: Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints
(1) Represents something that has gone bad, contrasting with the sweetness of nectar.[8]
The concept of Curdled milk in scientific sources
Curdled milk refers to milk that has thickened, often used in skincare for its exfoliating and moisturizing properties. It effectively transforms milk into a beneficial substance for enhancing skin health.
From: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
(1) The transformation of milk into a thicker substance, which can be utilized for skin care through its exfoliating and moisturizing effects.[9]