Significance of Pancagavya
Pancagavya, in Vaishnavism and various Hindu texts, refers to a sacred mixture consisting of five cow-derived products: milk, yogurt, ghee, cow urine, and cow dung. This mixture plays a vital role in purification and rituals, particularly for bathing deities. It is used in sacred rites, believed to provide auspiciousness and health benefits, as well as to bless spaces and objects. Overall, Pancagavya is integral to many purification processes and ceremonial practices within Hinduism.
Synonyms: Cow dung, Cow urine, Milk, Curd
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Pancagavya'
Pancagavya in Hinduism refers to a sacred mixture of five cow-derived products, used in purification and ablution rituals, vital for religious ceremonies and believed to possess purifying properties and blessings.
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) A sacred mixture that, if consumed, can purify a twice-born man who has unintentionally eaten forbidden items.[1] (2) A mixture of five products derived from cows, consumed for purification after following a Kshatriya corpse through folly.[2]
From: Baudhayana Dharmasutra
(1) This refers to the five products of the cow, believed to purify an individual when consumed.[3]
From: Vasistha Dharmasutra
(1) A mixture of five products derived from cows, which is considered purifying.[4]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) A sacred mixture of five cow products used for purification in rituals.[5] (2) A mixture of five products derived from cows, believed to have purifying and health benefits.[6]
From: Parama Samhita (English translation)
(1) A mixture of five cow products used for bathing the deity as part of the rituals.[7] (2) A mixture of five cow products used in purification and religious rites to bless spaces and objects.[8]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) A mixture that includes milk, yogurt, ghee, cow urine, and cow dung, used in rituals, particularly for bathing Deities.[9]