Significance of Tarpana
Tarpana, across various traditions, refers to distinct practices. In Purana, it's primarily a ritual of offering water or other substances to deities, sages, and ancestors. In Yoga, it signifies making offerings as an expression of gratitude. Ayurveda defines Tarpana as a therapeutic procedure, particularly for the eyes, involving the application of medicated ghee or oils for nourishment, rejuvenation, and the treatment of various eye conditions. Shaivism sees Tarpana as an offering, and Dharmashastra focuses on ritual libations for ancestors and deities. Health Sciences reiterates the Ayurvedic definition, highlighting Tarpana's role in ocular health and treatment.
Synonyms: Ritual offering, Oblation, Anointing, Libation, Purification, Sacrifice, Offering, Ritual, Homage
In Dutch: Tarpana; In German: Tarpana; In Finnish: Tarpana; In Spanish: Tarpana
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Tarpana'
In Hinduism, Tarpana encompasses several meanings. It is a therapeutic eye treatment using medicated substances, a ritual offering to deities and ancestors, and a means of nourishment. It involves procedures like applying ghee, offering water, and is part of Ayurvedic practices for eye health.
From: Journal of Ayurveda and Integrated Medical Sciences
(1) An ocular therapeutic procedure done with specific formulations, involving the application of Sneha Dravyas like Ghrita preparations.[1] (2) Nourishment or sustenance, referring to the deficiency in the nourishment of nerves (Snayu) due to Kshayaka.[2] (3) One of the modes of action of Nasya, as classified by Acharya Charaka. It is a type of action.[3] (4) This is a treatment that involves nourishment of the eyes, and it is used in the management of Dry Eye Syndrome.[4] (5) This refers to a procedure where the eyes are nourished with medicated oil, providing strength, and it is used as part of a broader treatment approach in managing certain conditions.[5]
From: Sushruta Samhita, Volume 6: Uttara-tantra
(1) The text describes Tarpana as a measure employed for treating an affected eye, involving specific procedures, ingredients like clarified butter, and durations based on the condition.[6] (2) A therapeutic procedure involving the application of soothing substances to the eyes.[7] (3) Soothing measures applied to the eyes, intended to bring comfort and relief.[8]
From: International Research Journal of Ayurveda and Yoga
(1) This is a quality of purest water, which is satiating and removes fatigue from the body.[9] (2) It is one of the effects of Guda and Dahi in combination, alongside Snehana, Hridya, and Vataghna.[10]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) Funeral ceremonies and peace-offerings conducted as offerings to the ancestors.[11]
From: Gautami Mahatmya
(1) A ritual for the propitiation of manes, specifically carried out at Yamatirtha.[12]
From: Anugita (English translation)
(1) A ritualistic offering or act of sacrifice, reflecting the passionate desire to honor ancestral spirits.[13]
From: Baudhayana Dharmasutra
(1) Ritual libations of water offered to deities, ancestors, and sages, mentioned in Baudhayana's works.[14] (2) A ritual offering made to the ancestors or deities to ensure their satisfaction and blessings.[15]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) The act of offering made to deities and ancestors, usually involving the pouring of water to invoke satisfaction.[16]
From: Shat-cakra-nirupana (the six bodily centres)
(1) The ritual of making offerings as an expression of gratitude and devotion within spirituality.[17]
The concept of Tarpana in scientific sources
Tarpana is an Ayurvedic procedure focused on nourishing the eyes. It primarily involves applying medicated ghee or oil to the eyes, often to address various eye conditions, dryness, and imbalances. This therapy aims to hydrate, rejuvenate, and support ocular health, and is part of the Kriyakalpa treatments.