Vedic ritual: 2 definitions

Introduction:

Vedic ritual means something in Hinduism, Sanskrit. If you want to know the exact meaning, history, etymology or English translation of this term then check out the descriptions on this page. Add your comment or reference to a book if you want to contribute to this summary article.

In Hinduism

Shaivism (Shaiva philosophy)

[«previous next»] — Vedic ritual in Shaivism glossary
Source: Google books: Genesis and Development of Tantra

Vedic rituals are generally performed to obtain certain desires, of which the most common are the prosperity of progeny (prajā) and cattle (paśu). There is a certain group of Vedic rituals which are referred to as “kāmya”. Those which are performed following the basic pattern of the new and full-moon sacrifice are called kāmyeṣṭi and those performed according to the basic pattern of animal sacrifice are called kāmyapaśu. [...] Although Vedic rituals were a reliable way for the people of ancient India to fulfill their objectives, Tantric rites too claim to bring about the attainment of wishes.

Shaivism book cover
context information

Shaiva (शैव, śaiva) or Shaivism (śaivism) represents a tradition of Hinduism worshiping Shiva as the supreme being. Closely related to Shaktism, Shaiva literature includes a range of scriptures, including Tantras, while the root of this tradition may be traced back to the ancient Vedas.

Discover the meaning of vedic ritual in the context of Shaivism from relevant books on Exotic India

General definition (in Hinduism)

[«previous next»] — Vedic ritual in Hinduism glossary
Source: Google Books: Ganapati: Song of the Self (h)

Vedic rituals are a coordinated and extended series of ritual actions performed either for the benefit of the patron or sacrificer (yajamāma) or, for the prosperity of the entire world. Such rituals require the assistance of officiants or Brahmin priests. As a general rule, the sacrifice takes place outdoors, and the primary elements, earth, water, air, and space (and their modifications and representatives in the form of natural substances, i.e., wood, milk, clarified butter, fruits, etc.) are what are offered into the sacrificial fire. When the fire consumes these elements, their subtle essence is conveyed thereby to the particular deity that is being invoked.

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