Significance of Sacrifice and oblation
Sacrifice and oblation in Hinduism pertain to the ritual offerings made to deities as essential components of religious ceremonies. These practices highlight the connection between humans and the divine, emphasizing the importance of food and gifts in worship. In Vaishnavism and Purana texts, offerings made to deities like Narayana and the Devi are central, reflecting cultural and spiritual significance. These rituals are crucial for invoking divine blessings and maintaining cosmic order, particularly noted in the Agnihotra practice according to Dharmashastra.
Synonyms: Offering, Gift, Donation, Tribute, Atonement, Consecration, Worship, Ritual, Immolation, Libation, Surrender, Forfeiture, Dedication, Martyrdom
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Sacrifice and oblation'
Sacrifice and oblation in Hinduism encompass ritual offerings made to deities, emphasizing spiritual connection and cosmic order, particularly through practices like Agnihotra, where Narayana and Devi play crucial roles in invoking divine blessings.
From: Vishnu Purana
(1) Concepts integral to worship and offerings made to deities, emphasizing Narayana as the embodiment of these practices.[1] (2) Ritual acts of worship characterized by offerings made to deities, pivotal in maintaining cosmic order and divine favor.[2]
From: Padma Purana
(1) Acts of offering that hold significant ritual importance in spiritual practices, celebrating the connection to the divine.[3]
From: Brahma Purana
(1) Key components of Vedic rituals, where offerings are made to deities to seek blessings and favor.[4]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) Ritual offerings made to the Devas, wherein the Devi's role is essential as the Svaha or instrumental cause in the sacrifices.[5]
From: Satapatha-brahmana
(1) These terms denote the ritual act of offering food and gifts to the divine, signifying the relationship between humans and deities.[6] (2) Offerings made to deities or divine powers, typically as part of a religious ceremony.[7] (3) Act of offering something to the gods, typically in a religious ceremonial context.[8]
From: Bharadvaja-srauta-sutra
(1) Sacrifice and oblation involve offerings made to deities in the context of Hindu rituals, especially during the Agnihotra practice, to invoke divine presence and blessings.[9]
From: Haribhakti-sudhodaya
(1) Ritual offerings made to deities, highlighting the cultural practices surrounding divine worship.[10]