Significance of Proclaiming his deed
Proclaiming his deed, according to Dharmashastra, involves openly admitting to various wrongdoings as a means of seeking forgiveness and atonement. This includes announcing actions such as murder, theft, or the killing of a Brahmana, which are crucial for those involved to find absolution before the king. Additionally, it encompasses the process of publicly declaring the breaking of a vow of chastity as part of a penance ritual over the course of a year.
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Proclaiming his deed'
In Hinduism, "Proclaiming his deed" involves openly declaring significant wrongdoings, such as killing a Brahmana or breaking vows, as part of penance and seeking forgiveness, inherently aimed at atonement and reconciliation with the community and divine.
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) The act of openly declaring the act of killing a Brahmana as part of the penance ritual.[1] (2) Proclaiming his deed means openly admitting to the act of theft, an important step for the thief in seeking absolution and facing the king.[2]
From: Baudhayana Dharmasutra
(1) Announcing one's actions, particularly in the context of seeking forgiveness or atonement for wrongdoings, such as murder.[3]
From: Paraskara-grihya-sutra
(1) The act of going about for one year, publicly announcing the act of breaking the vow of chastity to seek penance.[4]