Significance of Mess of cooked food
The Mess of cooked food, as outlined in Dharmashastra, pertains to various preparations of food that play a significant role in ritual sacrifices and offerings. It may include a portion of food during the Ashtaka celebration, dishes made from grains offered to deities, or food consumed by spouses symbolizing unity. This prepared food follows specific guidelines and can serve as an alternative to animal sacrifice, highlighting its importance in sacrificial rites and rituals within the tradition.
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Mess of cooked food'
In Hinduism, "Mess of cooked food" signifies various offerings in rituals, including sacrifices and penance, symbolizing unity, nourishment, and reverence, particularly in connection to goddess Nirriti and during significant celebrations.
From: Paraskara-grihya-sutra
(1) A portion of food prepared and offered as part of the penance to the goddess Nirriti.[1] (2) A portion of cooked food that is prepared and included in the sacrifices along with the Avadana portions.[2] (3) A preparation of food that is part of the offerings made during the sacrifice.[3] (4) A preparation of food made from grains like rice or barley that is offered during sacrificial rites.[4] (5) The portion of food that the husband makes his wife consume, symbolizing union and strength.[5]
From: Gobhila-grihya-sutra
(1) A preparation of cooked food that is involved in the sacrificial ritual, particularly referenced when placed to the west of Ajya.[6] (2) The prepared dish served during sacrificial rites, following particular preparation guidelines.[7]
From: Asvalayana-grihya-sutra
(1) A dish prepared with cooked food and a cake, which is then sacrificed in the ritual using specific verses.[8] (2) A portion of food prepared and offered during the Ashtaka celebration as part of the rituals.[9]
From: Sankhayana-grihya-sutra
(1) An optional offering to be provided during the ritual, which substitutes the animal sacrifice.[10]
From: Hiranyakesi-grihya-sutra
(1) Refers to a prepared dish that is significant for sacrifices or offerings in rituals.[11]
From: Khadira-grihya-sutra
(1) A full vessel at that of a mess of cooked food.[12]