Significance of Prasad
Synonyms: Offering, Blessing, Gift, Sacrament, Grace
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Prasad'
In Hinduism, Prasad denotes sanctified food offered to deities, symbolizing divine blessing. It represents both the offering made prior to consumption and the specific food served to Shri Gaura and Nityananda by mother Shaci.
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) The sanctified food served to Shri Gaura and Nityananda by mother Shaci.[1] (2) Food that is sanctified by being offered to the deity before consumption.[2]
From: Srila Gurudeva (The Supreme Treasure)
(1) The remnants of food offered to the deity that were partaken with satisfaction by the couple.[3]
The concept of Prasad in local and regional sources
Prasad, as described, encompasses sacred offerings linked to various rituals, including sweet Boondi and Sev during Cheti Chand, daily religious offerings to God, and a rice and sugar delicacy for the Baharana celebration.
From: Lord Jhulelal: An Analytical Study
(1) A sacred offering distributed to devotees, forming an important aspect of the celebrations during events like 'Cheti Chand.'[4] (2) A sacred offering distributed after Aarti during Cheti Chand and Chaitri Beej, typically consisting of small packets of sweet Boondi and Sev.[5] (3) A religious offering that is presented to God and later distributed among devotees, mentioned in relation to daily rituals.[6] (4) A sweet offering prepared from rice and sugar, associated with the Baharana celebration.[7]
From: Diaspora of Bhuta (Daiva) worshipping cult—India and Indonesia
(1) Food offered to the deity and distributed to devotees, which may include the rooster after it has been sacrificed.[8]
From: Triveni Journal
(1) Sacred food offered to the deities during worship, which is later distributed among devotees, embodying sharing and community.[9]