Significance of Full-moon sacrifices
Full moon sacrifice, as defined by Dharmashastra, encompasses a variety of sacrificial rites and rituals conducted during the full moon phase. These ceremonies involve specific offerings and practices aimed at honoring deities like Agni, and may occur independently or in conjunction with other sacrifices. The significance of the full moon sacrifice is marked by particular requirements for offerings, preparations of altars, and the alignment with other prominent rituals, making it a crucial element of ceremonial observance in Vedic traditions.
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Hindu concept of 'Full-moon sacrifices'
Full moon sacrifice in Hinduism involves specific rituals performed during the full moon phase, often featuring offerings to deities like Agni. These sacrificial rites adhere to particular requirements and can be significant in ceremonial practices.
From: Bharadvaja-srauta-sutra
(1) A specific type of Vedic sacrifice made during the full moon, with particular deities being honored.[1] (2) Sacrificial rites performed during the full moon phase, symbolizing fullness and completion.[2] (3) Ceremonies that involve offerings made during the full moon, symbolizing completion and offerings to celestial entities.[3] (4) A ritual in which an altar should be prepared after the oblations have been placed over the fire.[4] (5) Sacrifices conducted following similar guidelines to the New-moon sacrifice, followed in Ishtis and Animal-sacrifices.[5]
From: Gobhila-grihya-sutra
(1) A sacrificial offering made to Agni at the full-moon festivals.[6] (2) A specific ritual conducted during the full moon, most often involving offerings to deities like Agni.[7]
From: Khadira-grihya-sutra
(1) The first sacrifice that should be performed during the full moon phase.[8]
From: Apastamba Yajna-paribhasa-sutras
(1) The full-moon sacrifice (paurnamasya) corresponds to rituals that are performed during the full moon, marking another important moment for ceremonial observance.[9]
From: Sankhayana-grihya-sutra
(1) A ritual performed during the full moon, which is linked to specific rules and timings of offerings.[10]
From: Satapatha-brahmana
(1) The significant sacrificial event dedicated to the full moon, which may include various rites and offerings.[11] (2) A specific ritual which involves two oblations, highlighting the occurrence of the sacrificial act.[12] (3) A sacrifice performed at the full moon, typically including specific offerings such as rice-cakes to deities like Agni and Soma.[13] (4) A regular sacrificial offering performed on the established fire following the completion of the rituals related to Rudra.[14] (5) The Full-moon sacrifice involves the slaughter of the sacrificial horse itself and the presentation of its offering to the gods, marking a significant ritual act.[15]
From: Vakyapadiya of Bhartrihari
(1) A ritual or ceremony conducted during a full moon, linked to the interpretation of Vedic texts.[16]
From: The Padma Purana
(1) Rituals performed during the full moon, essential for spiritual upkeep by the twice-born.[17]