Rudra-Shiva concept (Study)
by Maumita Bhattacharjee | 2018 | 54,352 words
This page relates ‘Rudra in the Grihya-su̅tras (Introduction)’ of the study on the Rudra-Shiva concept in the Vedic and Puranic literature, starting with the concept of God as contemplated by the Rishis (Vedic sages). These pages further deal with the aspects, legends, iconography and eulology of Rudra-Shiva as found in the Samhitas, Brahamanas, Aranyakas, Upanishads Sutras and Puranas. The final chapters deal with descriptions of his greatness, various incarnations and epithets.
4. Rudra in the Gṛhya-su̅tras (Introduction)
Gṛhyasūtras are sacred Hindu religious texts which consist of information regarding Vedic domestic rites and rituals meant for householder. These rites can be performed by the householder himself or any of his representatives, viz. his wife, son, student or a Brāhmaṇa priest. The procedure of Gṛhya rituals is simpler than the Śrauta rites. Some rituals are described not only in the Śrautasūtras but in the Gṛhyasūtras also. The Śūlagava sacrifice belongs to Śrauta ritual as well as Gṛhya ritual.
Rudra occupies a prominent position in the Gṛhya rites. Rudra’s close connection with the Gṛhya rites has been found in numerous contexts.