Significance of Sacred sacrifice
Sacred sacrifice in Buddhism and other traditions encompasses various forms of ritual offerings aimed at appeasing deities and expressing devotion. It involves both material donations and the sacrifice of living creatures, with a focus on ceremonies performed in temples or as part of religious duties. The underlying theme connects humanity to the divine, highlighting selflessness and the pursuit of spiritual goals. Different interpretations emphasize the importance of these offerings in gaining divine favor and maintaining religious traditions.
Synonyms: Holy offering, Spiritual gift, Divine sacrifice, Spiritual offering, Ritual sacrifice, Consecrated offering, Religious sacrifice, Spiritual sacrifice
In Dutch: Heilig offer; In Finnish: Pyhä uhri
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Sacred sacrifice'
In Buddhism, Sacred sacrifice symbolizes selflessness, involving ritual offerings and the relinquishment of personal desires to attain a higher spiritual purpose, while also reflecting complex interpersonal dynamics within the prince's religious journey.
From: Apadana commentary (Atthakatha)
(1) Ritual offerings made with respect and devotion, considered holy.[1] (2) An offering made by the king in an attempt to cure his ailment, involving the sacrifice of living creatures and the donation of material goods.[2]
From: The Fo-Sho-Hing-Tsan-King (A Life of Buddha)
(1) The act of offering, complicating the roles of those connected in the prince's new religious life.[3]
From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) Symbolic of the selfless act of giving up personal desires and attachments for a greater spiritual goal.[4]
Hindu concept of 'Sacred sacrifice'
Sacred sacrifice in Hinduism encompasses ritual offerings expressing devotion and surrender to the divine, aiming for spiritual perfection, appeasing gods or ancestors, and ensuring divine favor through established traditions and rites.
From: Padma Purana
(1) Ritual offerings tied to various gods and deities, designed to gain spiritual progress or material benefits.[5] (2) The ritualistic aspect of the Horse Sacrifice that culminates in the return of Sita and the restoration of Rama's family.[6] (3) A religious ritual performed to please the gods, which has been highlighted as a means to obtain divine favors.[7]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) Religious acts of offering and devotion that are performed to appease deities and ancestors.[8] (2) Ritual offerings made by ascetics which honor the divine and include gifts to Brahmanas.[9]
From: Bhagavata Purana
(1) Rituals performed to worship the Lord, viewed as a favored approach to attain divine blessings.[10] (2) Ritual offerings made in reverence to the divine, which the Lord transcends in his satisfaction.[11]
From: Markandeya Purana
(1) Ritualistic offerings that are performed for divine beings, including the Pitris, meant to create goodwill.[12] (2) Ritualistic offerings that the future son must perform to establish his rule and uphold righteousness.[13]
From: Harivamsha Purana
(1) An emanation of Brahma's understanding, symbolizing the act of offering that connects humans to the divine.[14] (2) Holy rites performed along the banks of the river Vasudhara.[15]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki
(1) Rituals performed to enhance one's spiritual perfection, which are disrupted by the rakshasas.[16]
From: Skanda Purana
(1) Rituals and offerings that King Vasu was admonished for transgressing in his previous life, reflecting Vedic traditions.[17]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) A ritual performed by Cyavana which led to significant events, including the summoning of the Demon and the eventual appeasement of Indra.[18]
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) A religious offering or duty that Rama is expected to fulfill in accordance with Viswamitra's request.[19]
From: Brahma Purana
(1) Ritual offerings made to deities, emphasizing the importance of devotion in gaining divine favor.[20]
From: Vishnu Purana
(1) Ritual offerings made to deities or spirits in the belief that they lead to divine favor or understanding.[21]
From: Brahmanda Purana
(1) A ritual performed to appease deities or gain their favor, often a central theme in the struggles between Devas and Asuras.[22]
From: Gautami Mahatmya
(1) Ceremonial offerings conducted under the guidance of Vishvamitra, which Rama and Lakshmana protected.[23]
From: Vishnu Purana (Taylor)
(1) The primal act associated with the creation and maintenance of the universe, emphasizing the importance of the deity's presence.[24]
From: Mundaka Upanishad (Madhva commentary)
(1) Ritualistic offerings made in devotion that symbolize surrender and dedication to the divine.[25]
From: Manasara (English translation)
(1) Ritual acts, often involving offerings, performed at the temple as a form of devotion or religious service.[26]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) Religious rituals involving offerings made with the intention of appeasing gods or ancestors.[27]
From: Jarasandhavadha Mahakavyam
(1) Acts of devotion recognized as essential for divine favor and connection to the gods, particularly observed in Dvarika.[28]