Significance of Monthly Shraddha
Monthly Shraddha, also known as Ekoddishta, is a significant ritual described in both Purana and Dharmashastra. It involves honoring deceased ancestors through monthly ceremonies for one year, typically performed on auspicious lunar days like Amavasya. The rituals include food offerings, particularly sesame, aimed at nourishing the Pitris and ensuring their spiritual satisfaction. These ceremonies serve to maintain a connection with ancestors, fulfilling both religious obligations and providing blessings, reflecting a deep respect for the lineage and traditions.
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Monthly Shraddha'
Monthly Shraddha in Hinduism encompasses a monthly ritual honoring deceased ancestors through offerings, prayers, and specific food items, particularly on lunar days like Amavasya, ensuring spiritual nourishment for the Pitris and a connection to lineage.
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) A ritual performed once a month in honor of deceased ancestors, involving specific offerings and prayers.[1] (2) The specific rituals and offerings performed each month, particularly on the Amavasya day.[2] (3) A religious ceremony performed each month to honor deceased ancestors, typically involving offerings of food.[3]
From: Apastamba Dharma-sutra
(1) A ritual performed monthly, involving the use of a specific quantity of sesame during offerings.[4] (2) A necessary ritual that must be performed monthly, involving the use of specific food types.[5]
From: Hiranyakesi-grihya-sutra
(1) A ritual observance performed monthly, similar in some respects to the practices described.[6] (2) A ritual that is performed monthly to honor and feed the ancestors, typically conducted on specific lunar days.[7]
From: Apastamba Grihya-sutra
(1) A ritual described in texts related to honoring ancestors, serving as a reference for the Anvashtaka rite.[8] (2) The specific times for the ritual meals offered to ancestors, occurring in the second fortnight of the month.[9]
From: Gobhila-grihya-sutra
(1) A ceremonial offering that occurs on a monthly basis, specifically known as Anvaharya.[10]
From: Vishnu Purana
(1) Also known as Ekoddishta, it is a monthly ritual performed for a year in memory of a deceased person.[11]