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Significance of Vashatkara

Vashatkara is a significant term in the context of Hindu rituals, primarily associated with the Brahmanas and the performance of sacrifices. It refers to a divine being whose recitations of Vedic hymns guide the ritual process. This figure symbolizes immense power and serves as a vital source of nourishment through the Vedas, akin to a metaphoric teat for sages and celestial beings. In Dharmashastra, Vashatkara specifically pertains to the utterance "Vashat" made by the Hotri-priest, marking crucial moments during sacrifices.

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Hindu concept of 'Vashatkara'

Hinduism Books

Vashatkara in Hinduism symbolizes nourishment from the Vedas, marks pivotal moments in rituals via the Hotri-priest's invocation, and highlights the divine authority in sacrificial contexts, underscoring its integral role in ceremonial practices.

Significance in Dharmashastra (religious law):
Dharmashastra Books

From: Apastamba Yajna-paribhasa-sutras

(1) The act of uttering the word 'Vashat' by the Hotri-priest during the sacrifice, marking a significant moment in the ritual.[1]

Dharmashastra contains the instructions (shastra) regarding religious conduct of livelihood (dharma), ceremonies, jurisprudence (study of law) and more. It is categorized as smriti, an important and authoritative selection of books dealing with the Hindu lifestyle.

Significance in Purana and Itihasa (epic history):
Purana Books

From: Vishnu Purana

(1) The divine being ordering the ritual from his mouth, displaying his immense power.[2]

The Purana refers to Sanskrit literature preserving ancient India鈥檚 vast cultural history, including historical legends, religious ceremonies, various arts and sciences. The eighteen mahapuranas total over 400,000 shlokas (metrical couplets) and date to at least several centuries BCE.