Significance of Vaikhanasa
Vaikhanasa is a term that varies in meaning across different Hindu texts. In Purana, it denotes noble recluses or hermits regarded as esteemed sages. Vedanta classifies Vaikhanasa as an individual lifestyle within a specific ashrama, with defined spiritual duties based on scriptures. Dharmashastra describes Vaikhanasa as a community in Hinduism adhering to certain rituals and ascetic practices. Lastly, Pancaratra views it as the second class of Vaishnava agamas, differing in worship rituals from Pancaratra itself.
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Vaikhanasa'
Vaikhanasa in Hinduism encompasses a community known for unique rituals and asceticism, represents the second class of Vaishnava agamas, identifies noble hermits among sages, and denotes a lifestyle classification with specific spiritual duties.
From: Parama Samhita (English translation)
(1) The second class of Vaishnava agamas, which differs from Pancaratra in the details of worship rituals.[1]
From: Baudhayana Dharmasutra
(1) A group or community within Hinduism known for their adherence to specific rituals and ascetic practices.[2]
From: Brahma Sutras (Ramanuja)
(1) A classification of individual within a particular lifestyle or ashrama, with associated spiritual duties and practices outlined by scriptures.[3]
The concept of Vaikhanasa in local and regional sources
Vaikhanasa is significant as a textual source for the Vasishthasamhita and outlines vital practices in the Vimanarcanakalpa, linked to the Vaikhanasa community, known for conducting domestic rites within the Vaikhanasa Vedic tradition.
From: History of Science in South Asia
(1) Vaikhanasa is a text that is a source for the Vasishthasamhita, and the practice of vital points is found in the Vimanarcanakalpa, which was written by the Vaikhanasas, a community of hermits who performed the domestic rites of the Vaikhanasa Vedic school.[4]