Significance of Sesamum seed
Sesamum seed holds significant religious and spiritual importance in various ancient Indian texts. According to the Purana, it is used in rituals and offerings to honor ancestors, particularly during the shraddha ceremony, and is associated with spiritual cleansing and the observance of Ekadashi. In Jyotisha, it is recognized for its benefits to sexual energy, while Dharmashastra emphasizes its role in offerings and rituals linked to prosperity and sustenance. Rasashastra highlights its therapeutic uses, including oil preparation and treatments for abdominal pain.
Synonyms: Sesame seed, Sesame
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Sesamum seed'
Sesamum seeds hold significant spiritual and ritualistic importance in Hinduism. They are used in offerings, rituals for cleansing, enhancing sexual energy, and connecting with ancestors, symbolizing nourishment, wealth, and divine sustenance.
From: Asvalayana-grihya-sutra
(1) Seeds offered during the Shraddha, symbolizing sustenance and connection with the divine in the ceremony.[1] (2) Seed used in the preparation of offerings, specifically noted in conjunction with boiled rice.[2] (3) An ingredient used in food offerings during rituals.[3]
From: Gobhila-grihya-sutra
(1) An offering made during rituals aimed at the increase of flocks, particularly associated with the lunar phase indicated by a halo around the moon.[4] (2) Seeds included in the mess of boiled rice, representing wealth and nourishment.[5]
From: Sankhayana-grihya-sutra
(1) Another type of seed that is part of the offerings thrown away along with the cut-off hair ends.[6]
From: Rasa Jala Nidhi, vol 4: Iatrochemistry
(1) Seeds used to prepare oil that is to be rubbed on the patient's body during treatment.[7] (2) Seeds from which oil is prepared, recommended for use in application on the body.[8] (3) Refers to the size of the pills that are made from the mixture; comparable to a small size of a seed from the sesamum plant.[9] (4) Seeds derived from sesame, suggested to be avoided when in a state of illness.[10]
From: Rasa Jala Nidhi, vol 5: Treatment of various afflictions
(1) An ingredient used in some treatments for abdominal pain, applied externally for relief.[11]
From: Padma Purana
(1) Seeds considered sacred in rituals, often used in offerings to please the manes (ancestors).[12] (2) Seeds recommended for various rituals that are said to have cleansing properties and are associated with the observance of Ekadashi.[13] (3) Seeds used in rituals and offerings believed to possess special spiritual significance, especially on the full-moon day of Vaishakha.[14]
From: Markandeya Purana (Study)
(1) A seed acknowledged as accepted in the offerings for the shraddha ceremony.[15]
From: Brihat Samhita
(1) Often included in mixtures for their purported benefits to sexual energy.[16]
The concept of Sesamum seed in scientific sources
Sesamum seed, derived from the sesame plant, is notable for its high nutritional value and versatility, being utilized in various culinary dishes and medicinal practices, as highlighted by regional sources.
From: International Ayurvedic Medical Journal
(1) Sesamum seed is the edible seed from the sesame plant, recognized for its rich nutritional content and use in both culinary and medicinal applications.[17]