Significance of Liquid offering

The concept of liquid offering has different interpretations in Purana and Mahayana traditions. In Purana, it indicates the bloodshed in battle, viewed as essential for sacrificial rites associated with warfare. Conversely, Mahayana defines liquid offering as a devotion symbol, where practitioners present offerings to the Buddha or deities, reflecting their reverence and commitment. Thus, liquid offering serves both as a ritualistic element in one tradition and a symbol of devotion in another.

Synonyms: Libation, Drink

In Dutch: Vloeibaar aanbod; In Finnish: Nestemäinen tarjonta; In Spanish: Ofrenda liquida

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Buddhist concept of 'Liquid offering'

Buddhism Books

Liquid offering in Buddhism symbolizes devotion and respect, serving as a ritual act of reverence to the Buddha or deities. It represents the practitioner's commitment to spiritual practice and connection to the divine.

Significance in Mahayana (major branch of Buddhism):
Mahayana Books

From: Mahayana Mahaparinirvana Sutra

(1) An offering made to the Buddha or deities, symbolizing the devotion and respect of practitioners.[1]

Mahayana is a major branch of Buddhism focusing on the path of a Bodhisattva (spiritual aspirants/ enlightened beings). Extant literature is vast and primarely composed in the Sanskrit language. There are many sutras of which some of the earliest are the various Prajnaparamita sutras.

Hindu concept of 'Liquid offering'

Hinduism Books

Liquid offering in Hinduism signifies the bloodshed from warfare, viewed as an essential part of sacrificial rituals, emphasizing the connection between sacrifice and valor in battle within religious practices.

Significance in Purana and Itihasa (epic history):
Purana Books

From: Mahabharata (English)

(1) The substances or liquids offered during a sacrifice, often symbolizing life or vitality.[2]

The Purana refers to Sanskrit literature preserving ancient India’s vast cultural history, including historical legends, religious ceremonies, various arts and sciences. The eighteen mahapuranas total over 400,000 shlokas (metrical couplets) and date to at least several centuries BCE.

Significance in Vaishnavism (Vaishava dharma):
Vaishnavism Books

From: Garga Samhita (English)

(1) Refers to the fluid substances used in the bathing rituals, enhancing the sensory experience of worship.[3]

Vaishnava or vaishnavism (vaishnavism) represents a tradition of Hinduism worshipping Vishnu as the supreme Lord. Similar to the Shaktism and Shaivism traditions, Vaishnavism also developed as an individual movement, famous for its exposition of the dashavatara (‘ten avatars of Vishnu’).

Plural form: Liquid offerings.