Vedic ritual: 2 definitions

Introduction
In Hinduism
1. Shaivism
2. General definition
See also

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)

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.

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.

General definition (in Hinduism)

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.

Relevant text

Search found 68 books and stories containing Vedic ritual; (plurals include: Vedic rituals). You can also click to the full overview containing English textual excerpts. Below are direct links for the most relevant articles:

Socio-cultural Scenario of Northern India in Early Mediaeval Period < [Chapter 4]

Geographical extent and History of Northern India < [Chapter 1]

Mingling of Cultures (O): The Guhilās < [Chapter 4]

+ 10 more chapters / show preview

Chapter 1(d) - A Discussion on Vedic Rituals

Abstract

Chapter 5 - Major Findings and Concluding Observations

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4b. Rudra in the Bali offering < [Chapter 4 - Rudra-Śiva in the Post-Brāhmaṇic Literature]

3c. Rudra in the Indraturīya sacrifice < [Chapter 4 - Rudra-Śiva in the Post-Brāhmaṇic Literature]

4g. Rudra in the Bauḍhyavihāra ceremony < [Chapter 4 - Rudra-Śiva in the Post-Brāhmaṇic Literature]

+ 3 more chapters / show preview

Verse 2.28.133 < [Chapter 28 - The Lord’s Pastime of Accepting Sannyāsa]

Verse 2.28.134 < [Chapter 28 - The Lord’s Pastime of Accepting Sannyāsa]

Verse 1.13.136-137 < [Chapter 13 - Defeating Digvijayī]

+ 2 more chapters / show preview

Part 38 - Symbolic relevance of the Wheel in Sun-worship < [Chapter 2 - Salient Traits of the Solar Divinities in the Veda]

Part 40 - Symbolic relevance of the Lotus in Sun-worship < [Chapter 2 - Salient Traits of the Solar Divinities in the Veda]

Part 39 - Symbolic relevance of the Golden Disc in Sun-worship < [Chapter 2 - Salient Traits of the Solar Divinities in the Veda]

+ 4 more chapters / show preview

Preface

Chapter 5 - Summary and Conclusion

Part 1: An Introduction to the Śukla Yajurvedic Texts < [Chapter 1 - Introduction]