Significance of Offering of water
Synonyms: Libation, Water offering, Water sacrifice, Liquid offering, Water ritual, Ceremonial water
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Offering of water'
The Offering of water in Hinduism symbolizes hospitality, purification, and devotion. It includes rituals honoring ancestors and deities, often accompanied by lotus flowers, and signifies respect, spiritual cleansing, and connection with one's lineage.
From: Agni Purana
(1) Refers to the ritual of pouring water as libation during worship.[1] (2) A specific sacrificial ritual often accompanied by lotus flowers meant for the worship of the deity Parjanya.[2] (3) A ritual act of offering water during the installation ceremony, symbolizing purification.[3] (4) A respectful act performed by the worshipper as part of the ritual, symbolizing purity and devotion.[4]
From: Skanda Purana
(1) A ritual act performed by devotees, symbolizing devotion and the desire for spiritual purification.[5] (2) A ritual performed to honor one's ancestors and forefathers, particularly on the full moon day.[6] (3) A ritual performed by Parashurama intended to honor his forefathers while seeking to cleanse the Earth of Kshatriyas.[7]
From: Vishnu Purana (Taylor)
(1) A ritual act of providing water as an offering during funerary rites to purify and honor the deceased.[8]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) A gesture of hospitality to ensure the comfort of the guest, especially for those not learned in the Veda.[9] (2) Refers to specific rituals that both sets of sons are obliged to perform.[10] (3) Religious rituals that involve giving water as a rite for the Pitris, which must be performed using appropriate receptacles.[11] (4) A ritual component that involves providing water, which is traditionally part of the offerings in sacrificial rites.[12] (5) A specific contribution made in the form of water during a ritual, which holds significant religious value.[13]
From: Hiranyakesi-grihya-sutra
(1) A specific type of offering made, often symbolizing purification and respect.[14]
From: Amarakoshodghatana of Kshirasvamin (study)
(1) Called pitriyajna, it involves offerings made to the ancestors or manes.[15]
From: Satapatha-brahmana
(1) The act of pouring or sprinkling water as part of a ritual to confer blessings and power.[16]