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Significance of Devala

Devala, as described in the Purana, pertains to a Brahmana of inferior status who thrives on offerings made to deities' images. Additionally, in Dharmashastra, Devala signifies a tradition that mandates re-initiation for a religious student engaging in specific rites with dead bodies. It also serves as a source outlining the substances requiring purification through bathing upon contact. Overall, Devala reflects both a social standing within the Brahmin community and important religious practices and guidelines.1
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The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Hindu concept of 'Devala'

Hinduism Books

Devala in Hinduism can be interpreted as a concept involving a lower-order Brahmana reliant on deity offerings, as well as traditions surrounding re-initiation for certain rites and the need for purification after specific contacts.

Significance in Dharmashastra (religious law):
Dharmashastra Books

From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi

(1) Another authoritative figure or sage mentioned in the context of social interactions and ethical behavior.[1] (2) An ancient figure who provided specific rituals and rites for those who have lived among outcasts.[2] (3) A source that correlates various substances that necessitate bathing upon contact.[3] (4) A tradition concerning the necessity of undergoing re-initiation if a religious student performs certain rites involving dead bodies.[4]

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: Devi Bhagavata Purana

(1) A Brahmana of an inferior order, who lives off the offerings made to the images he attends.[5] (2) Brahmanas subsisting on offerings made to the images of deities, considered lower in status.[6]

The Purana refers to Sanskrit literature preserving ancient India’s 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.

Plural form: Devalas.