Significance of Sacred fire
Synonyms: Holy fire, Divine flame, Consecrated fire, Spiritual fire, Holy flame, Divine fire
In Dutch: Heilig vuur; In Finnish: Pyh盲 tuli; In Spanish: Fuego sagrado; In German: Heiliges Feuer; In Malay: Api suci; In Swedish: Helig eld; In French: Feu sacr茅
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Sacred fire'
In Buddhism, "Sacred fire" signifies both a traditional element of rituals, abandoned by Uruvilva-Kashyapa for deeper truths, and a symbol of spiritual discipline and purification, reflecting practices valued in ascetic life and Vedic tradition.
From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) The symbol of the ascetic's spiritual practice, often associated with ritual offerings.[1] (2) A fire that is revered and worshipped, associated with rituals and practices by ascetics.[2] (3) A fire maintained by ascetic Jotirasa, associated with the rituals of the ascetic life.[3] (4) Refers to fire used in rituals and sacrifices which Kassapa renounces as he realizes its meaningless nature.[4] (5) A fire that holds spiritual significance, which the monkey defiles, demonstrating his mischievous nature.[5]
From: Vinaya (2): The Mahavagga
(1) The fires that the Jatilas attend to, which are part of their religious practices.[6] (2) A fire that the Jatilas attend to and which requires the splitting of fire-wood.[7] (3) A fire kept in the room of the Jatila Uruvela Kassapa, considered important for rituals.[8] (4) A traditional sacrificial practice that Uruvela Kassapa abandoned upon realizing the futility of such rituals in attaining true peace.[9]
From: Vinaya Pitaka (3): Khandhaka
(1) An element representing the traditional Brahmanical sacrificial practices that Kassapa abandoned for spiritual pursuits.[10] (2) Ritual fires maintained by ascetics, symbolizing purification and the application of spiritual discipline.[11]
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) A symbol of respect and reverence in the Brahmin tradition, comparable to how followers should honor their teachers in Buddhism.[12] (2) A fire that is considered holy or worthy of worship, in this context representing the ritualistic practices of fire-worship in the forest.[13]
From: Mahavastu (great story)
(1) A metaphor for the dedication and spiritual discipline practiced by individuals seeking merit, contrasted with true spiritual attainment.[14] (2) A divine element tended by Padumavati as part of the rituals involving her position as a queen.[15] (3) A traditional element of religious sacrifice that Uruvilva-Kashyapa abandoned to seek deeper spiritual truths beyond mere rituals.[16] (4) A vital element in many rituals, symbolizing purity and the spiritual journey in Vedic tradition.[17]
Hindu concept of 'Sacred fire'
In Hinduism, Sacred fire symbolizes purity and the connection between the divine and mortals, serving as a crucial element in rituals, sacrifices, and spiritual worship, representing transformation and divine acceptance in Vedic practices.
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) Fires associated with rituals and sacrifices that are offerings to Mahadeva.[18] (2) A crucial element in Vedic rituals, representing purity and spirituality, often associated with the ceremonies performed by Brahmanas.[19] (3) A traditional element in Vedic rituals that represents purity and is integral to sacrifices.[20] (4) The ritual flames maintained by the Brahmanas that symbolize spiritual purity and the maintenance of religious practices.[21] (5) A central element in Hindu sacrifices, where offerings like clarified butter are made to invoke deities.[22]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Shastri)
(1) A metaphor for the heightened energy and determination that fuels warriors in conflict.[23] (2) The holy flame used in various religious sacrifices.[24] (3) A ceremonial fire ignited by the ascetics as part of their spiritual practices.[25] (4) A central element of the sacrifice, into which oblations were poured accompanied by chants of Vedic mantras.[26] (5) A fire kindled by the ascetics during sacrifices, which the asuras attempt to extinguish and desecrate.[27]
From: Garuda Purana
(1) A central element in Hindu rituals, believed to purify offerings and connect the material world to the divine.[28] (2) A holy flame ignited during rituals symbolizing purity and the presence of divine forces.[29] (3) A holy element in Brahmanic rituals, associated with offerings in Shraddha ceremonies.[30] (4) The fire that is first lit during marriage ceremonies, used in daily rituals and the celebration of Vedic sacrifices.[31] (5) A revered fire in Hindu rituals that symbolizes purity and the presence of the divine, maintained by individuals like hermits.[32]
From: Gautami Mahatmya
(1) The fire maintained by Dadhici as a symbol of household duty and spirituality.[33] (2) A ritual fire used in Vedic practices, playing a crucial role in sacrifices and offerings.[34] (3) A fire that holds spiritual significance, often used in rituals and offerings.[35] (4) Fire used in worship that indicates Maya's devotion and desire to conquer Indra.[36] (5) Fire used in religious ceremonies for offerings and rituals, signifying the presence of the divine.[37]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Griffith)
(1) This refers to the fire that must be kept burning, as the sages' duty is to chant the Veda hymn and ensure the sacred fire does not grow dim.[38] (2) The sacred fire is the central element of the nuptial rites, where offerings are made and the couples circle, symbolizing the beginning of their married life.[39] (3) A holy flame used in rituals and ceremonies, signifying purity and divinity.[40] (4) The fire that was worshipped and used in rituals, significant in the context of the hermitage and offerings.[41] (5) The holy flames used during the funeral rites, integral to Hindu cremation practices.[42]
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) An element considered valuable and symbolic in ancient Indian culture, often involved in rituals and daily life.[43] (2) A fire used in rituals that symbolizes purity and serves as a vital element in various sacrificial rites.[44] (3) Fire that holds spiritual significance, often used in sacrificial offerings.[45] (4) The fire used in the agnishtoma sacrifice, symbolizing dedication and purification in the pursuit of spiritual objectives.[46] (5) The holy fire ignited during the wedding ceremony, serving as a witness to the vows exchanged between the couple.[47]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) The fire that Vyasa is trying to kindle, which symbolizes divine energy and spiritual practice.[48] (2) Refers to Agnihotra, a ritual involving fire, symbolizing purification and offering in spiritual practices.[49] (3) Garhapatya, a sacred fire placed in the house, symbolizing purity and the domestic aspect of life.[50] (4) The fire element that is central to the sacrificial rites performed during the Yajna.[51] (5) A fire lit during the marriage ceremonies, signifying purity and the divine presence in the rituals.[52]
From: Markandeya Purana
(1) A fire maintained in Bhuti's hermitage, whose extinguishing results in significant distress for his disciple Shanti.[53] (2) Fire used in rituals, considered a purifying element central to Hindu ceremonies including the shraddha.[54] (3) The fire used in rituals within Pramuca's hermitage where he sought guidance for his daughter's marriage.[55] (4) A significant element in Hindu rituals; it symbolizes divine presence and offerings to the gods.[56]
From: Nilamata Purana
(1) A representation of the divine in rituals, which is to be gratified through offerings and worship.[57]
From: Bhagavadgita
(1) These refer to the traditional religious rituals or sacrifices that are discarded by those who seek renunciation, but the Deity emphasizes that true devotion is not about performing these acts.[58]
From: Harivamsha Purana
(1) Fire consecrated for religious purposes, emphasizing the importance of ritual in spiritual life.[59]
From: Bharadvaja-srauta-sutra
(1) The fires used in the sacrificial ceremonies, around which certain movements and actions are dictated.[60] (2) A sacred fire in Vedic rituals is considered holy and plays a central role in various ceremonies, often symbolizing purification and connection to the divine.[61] (3) The fire that is maintained by the Adhvaryu during the ritual, considered a vital element in Vedic sacrifices and offerings.[62] (4) The fire that is established during rituals, playing a significant role in the offerings and practices of sacrifice.[63] (5) The fire used in rituals, representing divine presence and the connection between humans and gods.[64]
From: Baudhayana Dharmasutra
(1) The fire utilized in Vedic rituals, significant in sacrificial practices that may bring spiritual benefits.[65] (2) A fire consecrated through specific rituals, central to many Vedic ceremonies, symbolizing purity and divine presence.[66] (3) Traditional fires that hold spiritual significance in ascetic practices, which one must reposit in their soul.[67] (4) These fires are maintained for performing rituals and oblations, symbolizing divine communication and offerings.[68] (5) Fires lit and maintained for religious rituals that symbolize purity and the sacrifice offered to divinities.[69]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) A symbolic representation of the marital bond, which must be managed by the husband after the death of his wife.[70] (2) The fire that is maintained for sacrificial purposes, deemed holy and essential for rituals.[71] (3) The consecrated fire used in religious ceremonies, particularly in the context of cremation.[72] (4) Ceremonial fires that are significant in Hindu rituals and are to be reposited within oneself during renunciation.[73] (5) Refers to the duties of a religious student, which include tending to these fires as part of their responsibilities.[74]
From: Vasistha Dharmasutra
(1) Fire used in rituals that is considered holy and is central to many Vedic ceremonies.[75] (2) A significant element whose extinguishing is subject to penance, indicating its importance in rituals.[76] (3) A sacred fire that is kindled during the Upakarman rite, into which unground rice grains are offered to the gods, Rishis, and Khandas.[77] (4) Three fires that a Brahmana must kindle, essential for various sacrificial ceremonies.[78] (5) Symbolically seen as a teacher; the student is required to serve this in the absence of his teacher.[79]
From: Apastamba Dharma-sutra
(1) Ceremonial fires that are kindled as part of the rites after studying the Veda.[80] (2) A fire that is kindled for religious purposes and rituals within a household, especially significant in various Hindu ceremonies.[81] (3) The fire associated with various rituals in the host's home, including the Garhapatya and Dakshinagni, used in food preparation and sacrifices.[82] (4) A designated fire used in Hindu rituals for offerings, signifying a direct connection to the divine.[83] (5) Fires associated with religious rituals that one must not forsake without performing the proper sacrifices.[84]
From: Gobhila-grihya-sutra
(1) A fire that is central to the rituals, starting point for the householder's circumambulation.[85] (2) The fire central to the marriage ceremony where offerings are made and vows are taken.[86] (3) The consecrated flames in which offerings are made and which symbolize divine presence and acceptance in the rituals.[87] (4) A fire that is considered holy and is used in rituals, where offerings and oblations are made.[88] (5) A fire that is specially prepared and maintained for the purpose of conducting domestic rituals and sacrifices.[89]
From: Asvalayana-grihya-sutra
(1) The sacred fires carried by the relations of the deceased person, symbolizing the spiritual connection and rites associated with the dead.[90] (2) The sacred Shrauta fires are considered significant in rituals and are believed to have an affinity for the village.[91] (3) The physical element over which oblations are made as a representation of divine presence in the sacrifice to the Gods.[92] (4) A fire established at a specific place intended for performing sacrifices.[93] (5) The three sacred fires that play a central role in rituals and rites.[94]
From: Gautama Dharmasutra
(1) Religious flames that need to be maintained, neglecting them leads to specific penances.[95] (2) A ritualistic fire that marks the beginning of household duties and responsibilities in certain marriages.[96] (3) A fire utilized in rituals, considered holy and central to various religious ceremonies.[97] (4) A holy flame that should be kindled during significant events such as marriage or the division of a family estate.[98]
From: Sankhayana-grihya-sutra
(1) A fire that is set up for religious rituals, specifically the Shrauta fires that are significant in Hindu ceremonies.[99] (2) The holy flame that is established in a garden during the consecration ceremony.[100] (3) The fire that is made to enter into the individual or kindling sticks as a preparation for a journey, representing a spiritual or ritual significance.[101] (4) Places of religious or ceremonial importance where rituals are performed, particularly in case of damage to the chariot.[102]
From: Paraskara-grihya-sutra
(1) The fire that serves as a central element in the sacrificial rituals, around which offerings are made.[103] (2) The fire established as part of the sacrificial ritual, crucial to the performance of the sacrificial acts.[104]
From: Khadira-grihya-sutra
(1) Ceremonial fires set up for performing sacrifices, pivotal in offering cooked food and other rituals.[105] (2) The fire at the heart of domestic rituals, representing a connection between the earthly and divine realms.[106]
From: Apastamba Yajna-paribhasa-sutras
(1) The sacrificial fires must be laid once through a ceremony called Agnyadhana, typically arranged for the first time.[107]
From: Satapatha-brahmana
(1) Refers to Agni, the fire that is kindled from various sources and is crucial for rituals; he supports everything and is connected to the breath and vital airs.[108] (2) The deities Agni that represent the spiritual forces worshipped by individuals for their protection and blessings.[109] (3) A critical element of the sacrificial altar used for offerings and rites that sustain the connection between the earthly and divine realms.[110] (4) Fires established for performing sacrifices, central to the rituals including the Dakshayana sacrifice.[111] (5) The fire used in the rituals, symbolizing both purification and the presence of the divine.[112]
From: Brahma Sutras (Ramanuja)
(1) Ritual fires associated with Vedic sacrifices, knowledge of which determines qualification for specific spiritual practices.[113] (2) Refers to the triad of fires (Garhapatya, Anvaharya-pacana, and Ahavaniya) in Vedic rituals that hold both physical and symbolic meaning in the context of devotion and offerings.[114] (3) Holy manifestations associated with the teachings of Brahman, which provide support and guard those seeking knowledge.[115] (4) Fires established for Vedic sacrifices, which are not a prerequisite for individuals devoted to meditation.[116]
From: Brahma Sutras (Shankaracharya)
(1) A critical element in Vedic practices, which are associated with the performance of sacrifices.[117] (2) Elements of sacrificial practice that are established as subordinate parts in the context of offerings to achieve heavenly rewards.[118] (3) Three distinct divine manifestations in Vedic tradition that symbolize various aspects of spiritual practice, representing different forms of fire such as the garhapatya.[119]
From: Brihadaranyaka Upanishad
(1) The fire that is central to certain rituals; it is treated with reverence and regularly invoked during sacrifices.[120]
From: Chandogya Upanishad (english Translation)
(1) A fire that is regarded as holy, often used in rituals.[121]
From: Chandogya Upanishad (Shankara Bhashya)
(1) The Ahavaniya fire that acts as the locus of the libation, symbolizing the foundation of the Agnihotra and connecting the offerings to the divine.[122]
From: History of Indian Medicine (and Ayurveda)
(1) A ritual fire maintained by the teacher symbolizing knowledge and the spiritual practices associated with learning.[123] (2) A spiritual element present during the initiation ceremony where the teacher instructs the disciple.[124] (3) A spiritual element within the royal court, indicating the importance of rituals in the physician's duties.[125]
From: Sushruta Samhita, volume 1: Sutrasthana
(1) The fire kindled during the initiation ceremony that serves as a witness to the rites performed and the commitments made.[126]
From: Charaka Samhita (English translation)
(1) A significant aspect of daily austerities that Atreya tended to, illustrating his spiritual practices.[127]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) Fire that is worshipped in various rites and rituals, symbolizing purity and used for offerings during sacrifices.[128] (2) A ceremonial fire that holds religious significance during rituals, particularly in weddings.[129] (3) The sacred fire, referred to as hutashanam, is kindled by Brahma for conducting rituals, especially significant ceremonies such as weddings.[130] (4) A fire used in Hindu rituals, representing purity and the divine presence.[131]
From: Haribhakti-sudhodaya
(1) A ceremonial aspect of Vedic rituals that symbolizes purity and devotion.[132]
From: Brihat Samhita
(1) Fires set up as part of the rituals; offerings are made to seek blessings from various deities.[133] (2) An essential element of the hermitage, established on a sacrificial altar for the conduct of rituals.[134] (3) A divine fire used in sacrificial ceremonies, which must exhibit specific characteristics for the king's success.[135] (4) A key element in rituals where the king offers oblations and observes auguries for successful outcomes.[136]
From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)
(1) A spiritual symbol referenced by the children as they grow and develop.[137] (2) Representing a crucial element in Hindu rituals and symbolizes the connection to the divine and immortality in the tale.[138]
From: Kautilya Arthashastra
(1) A significant element in royal duties where ritual observance is noted, especially where the king engages with petitioners.[139]
From: Kamashastra Discourse (Life in Ancient India)
(1) A traditional element in marriage ceremonies that signifies the presence of divinity and commitment between spouses.[140]
The concept of Sacred fire in local and regional sources
The key phrase "Sacred fire" encompasses various meanings, including a ritual fire for spirituality, a symbol of purity in marriage ceremonies, and a representation of inner moral convictions, highlighting its significance in multiple cultural and religious contexts.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) Bharadwaja would attend on the sacred fires (Agnis), and when he was away at the river, a hired blind Sudra would watch the doors of the room where the Agnis were kept.[141] (2) A metaphor for the divine energy or passion that sanctifies the poet's bodily and spiritual existence.[142] (3) Symbolized by Agni in Bharati's work, representing both spirituality and knowledge that leads to enlightenment.[143] (4) The Agnis that are central to worship and ritual practices, maintained by Raibhya in his hermitage.[144] (5) An important element of the marriage ceremony, symbolizing purity and the divine presence during the rituals being performed.[145]
From: Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints
(1) A ritual fire maintained for spiritual purposes, often significant in various religious ceremonies.[146] (2) A perpetual fire maintained by Bahirambhat at his home, symbolizing his holy practices.[147]
From: History of Science in South Asia
(1) The fires should be established in the spring, which is the first/beginning of the seasons, like the fire god Agni is the foremost of the gods and the Brahmin is the foremost social class of the human beings; a Rajanya (belonging to the second social class) should establish his fires in the summer, and a Vaishya (belonging to the third social class) in the autumn.[148]