Some Paruni myths and hymns
Journal name: Acta Orientalia
Original article title: Some Paruni myths and hymns
ACTA ORIENTALIA is a journal focused on the study of Oriental languages, history, archaeology, and religions from ancient times to the present. The journal includes articles reviewed by a senior scholar in the relevant field.
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Original source:
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Lennart Edelberg
Acta Orientalia:
(Founded in 1922 and published annually)
Full text available for: Some Paruni myths and hymns
Year: 1972 | Doi: 10.5617/ao.5186
Copyright (license): CC BY 4.0
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction:
The excerpt discusses specific verses from the Asvalayanasrautasutra, detailing ritual practices associated with the Svistakrt and the offerings made during these ceremonies. It highlights the roles of different deities, particularly Agni, as well as the modification in the invocation of divine figures during the rituals.
Conclusion:
The text underscores the regulatory framework governing the incorporation of deities in Vedic sacrifices, elucidating the processes involved in specific rites while emphasizing the significance of Agni as a central figure in these sacrificial offerings.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What does the term 'samyäjya' refer to in the text?
The term 'samyäjya' in the text signifies specific verses related to rituals, particularly those concerning offerings and invocations during the Svistakrt ceremony, emphasizing the roles of Agni as the hotar and purohita.
What is the significance of Agni in the rituals described?
Agni is referred to as both the hotar and purohita, highlighting his central role in the rituals. The text points out the invocations made to Agni Pavaka and Agni Suci during the vrdhanvant-spruch, underlining his importance as a divine purifier and protector in the ceremonies.
Glossary definitions and references:
Oriental and Historical glossary list for “Some Paruni myths and hymns�. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of History, Linguistics, Religion, Philosophy, Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism etc.
1) Agni:
Agni is a Vedic deity symbolizing fire and divine knowledge. In the text, Agni is referenced as the hotar and purohita, indicating his central role in ritual acts. Additionally, Agni has specific attributes like 'Pavaka' (the purifier) and 'Suci' (having a shining, pure essence).
2) Svishtakrit (Svistakrt):
Svistakrt refers to a specific Vedic ritual connected to the fire sacrifice and Agni. In the text, offerings are made to Svistakrt following certain recitations, highlighting its significance. The term signifies 'he who makes well-sacrificed,' ensuring ritual completeness.
3) Hotar:
Hotar is a priestly role in Vedic rituals, responsible for reciting hymns and invocations. The text mentions Agni as the hotar, emphasizing his integral function. The hotar’s duties are pivotal in guiding the sacrificial rites to appease deities properly.
4) Ashvalayana (Asvalayana):
Asvalayana designates the sages and the specific Vedic Shrauta Sutra attributed to their teachings. In the text, the Asvalayana-Shrautasutra contains detailed instructions for conducting Vedic rituals, focusing on the precise methods and rules of sacrificial rites.
5) Ajyabhaga (Ajya-bhaga):
Ajyabhaga refers to the portions of clarified butter offered during rituals. The text mentions ajyabhaga in relation to specific deities and ritual sequences, underlining its essential role in the sacrificial process and symbolic offerings to the deities involved.
6) Purohita:
Purohita denotes a priest or ritual officiant. The text identifies Agni as the purohita, indicating his authoritative role in the rituals. As a purohita, Agni oversees the proper execution of rites, bridging the human and divine realms.
7) Adhyaya (Adhyayam):
Adhyaya signifies a section or chapter within a sacred text. The text refers to the second adhyaya of the Asvalayana-Shrautasutra, indicating its importance in delineating specific aspects of Vedic rituals and providing structured knowledge on sacrificial procedures.
8) Pavaka:
Pavaka is an epithet of Agni indicating purity and the ability to purify. The text mentions Agni Pavaka during specific ritual invocations, highlighting his purifying powers. This attribute of Agni is crucial for the sanctity and success of the Vedic sacrifices.
9) Vikriti (Vikrti):
Vikrti refers to modified or specific forms of ritual practices. The text discusses the presence of vikrti-Gottheiten (deities) in particular contexts, emphasizing their role in specialized versions of rituals that serve distinct purposes beyond the standard forms.
10) Shuci (Suci, Sucin, Shucin):
Suci is another epithet of Agni meaning pure or radiant. The text references Agni Suci during certain chants, underscoring his luminous and purifying nature. This attribute enhances Agni’s significance in maintaining the sanctity of the sacrificial environment.
11) Ishti (Isti):
Isti is a term for a type of Vedic sacrifice or offering. The text mentions the isti-Opfer (sacrifice), indicating its role in the ritual framework of the Asvalayana-Shrautasutra. These offerings are crucial for maintaining the balance and connection between the worshippers and the deities.