Significance of Sacrificer's wife
The Sacrificer's wife in Hinduism plays a crucial role in the ritual process, actively participating in various ceremonial practices alongside the sacrificer. She engages in tasks such as preparing offerings, conducting purification, and maintaining specific restrictions, symbolizing her importance within the rituals. The Sacrificer's wife also occupies a designated place in the sacrificial ceremonies, contributing to the overall effectiveness of the rites and ensuring blessings and prosperity. Her involvement is integral to the execution and success of the sacrificial offerings.
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Sacrificer's wife'
The "sacrificer's wife" in Hinduism plays a vital role in sacrificial rituals, supporting and participating alongside her husband in various ceremonial acts, symbolizing inclusion, protection, and the bestowal of blessings within the tradition.
From: Bharadvaja-srauta-sutra
(1) The spouse of the sacrificer who also participates in the rituals, particularly receiving the yoke-halter.[1] (2) The spouse of the person performing the sacrifice, participating in the rituals.[2] (3) The wife of the sacrificer, involved in the rituals and particularly in the milking of the vrata-cow.[3] (4) The wife of the sacrificer, who is responsible for giving away the remaining portion of the tail to the Adhvaryu.[4] (5) The spouse of the sacrificer who has a specific seat reserved for her during the rituals.[5]
From: Baudhayana Dharmasutra
(1) The sacrificer's wife has a designated place behind the Garhapatya fire during the sacrificial ceremony.[6]
From: Gobhila-grihya-sutra
(1) The sacrificer's wife is responsible for part of the rituals, including washing the apertures of the cow's body after it is sacrificed.[7]
From: Satapatha-brahmana
(1) The sacrificer's wife participates in the ritual by anointing the burning part of the axle and is led out by the south door.[8] (2) The spouse of the sacrificer who plays a crucial role in the purification and propitiation of the sacrifice.[9] (3) Represented as the hind-part of the sacrifice, her positioning is significant in the context of the Adhvaryu's movements during the ceremony.[10] (4) Represents the female counterpart involved in the ritual, receiving earth from the foot-print as a sign of wealth and stability.[11] (5) The partner who participates with the sacrificer in offerings, pivotal to the ritual process.[12]