Significance of Expiratory rite
The Expiratory rite is a significant ritual across various texts. In the Arthashastra, it serves to atone for offenses and can be used politically. The Purana highlights Sudeha's performance of the rite to atone for her sins after her son's revival. In the Dharmashastra, the Expiratory rite is characterized as a means to address wrongdoing, with its severity varying based on the number of afflicted individuals, and it is also prescribed to cleanse past sins according to religious authority.
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Expiratory rite'
The Expiratory rite in Hinduism serves to atone for sins, influenced by the afflicted's number, and can also reflect political motives. It includes rituals mandated by authorities, exemplified by Sudeha's act for her son's revival.
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) A ceremonial act performed to atone for a transgression, in this context specifically relating to unintentional acts during dreams.[1] (2) A religious or ceremonial measure taken in connection with the theft of specified high-value items.[2] (3) Ceremonies intended for atonement or purification which are significant in the context of Brahmana guidelines.[3] (4) A ritual performed to atone for wrongdoing; the severity of this rite is influenced by the number of afflicted individuals present.[4] (5) A ritual intended to cleanse or atone for past sins, prescribed by religious authorities for individuals with certain conditions.[5]
From: Shiva Purana
(1) Ceremonial acts performed to purify or atone for sins, especially after encountering negativity.[6] (2) The ritual performed by Sudeha to atone for her sins after witnessing the revival of her son.[7]
From: Skanda Purana
(1) Rituals performed to atone for transgressions, especially related to one's Ashrama.[8]
From: Kautilya Arthashastra
(1) Rituals performed to atone for offenses, which can be used as a façade for political maneuvers.[9]