Significance of Sacrificial gift
The concept of Sacrificial gift is significant across various traditions such as Buddhism, Hinduism, and Vaishnavism. In Buddhism, it refers to offerings made to silent buddhas, whereas in Hinduism, it encompasses diverse items given in rituals to priests, gods, and participants, often linked to spiritual rewards and karma. Furthermore, Vaishnavism emphasizes the value of generosity in sacrificial ceremonies. Overall, Sacrificial gifts hold essential spiritual value, serving as acts of devotion designed to honor deities and fulfill specific religious purposes.
Synonyms: Offering, Tribute, Donation, Presentation, Sacrifice, Contribution, Oblation
In Dutch: Opofferingsgeschenk; In Finnish: Uhrilahja; In Spanish: Don sacrificial; In German: Opfergabe
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Sacrificial gift'
In Buddhism, the concept of a "sacrificial gift" involves offerings made to silent Buddhas, suggesting a misunderstanding by the king about their necessity, emphasizing the significance of intention over material sacrifice in spiritual practices.
From: Apadana commentary (Atthakatha)
(1) Offerings made to the silent buddhas, which the king incorrectly assumed would be required.[1]
Hindu concept of 'Sacrificial gift'
In Hinduism, the sacrificial gift symbolizes devotion through offerings made to deities during rituals, including food and valuable items. These gifts honor spiritual connections, demonstrate commitment, and are crucial for achieving blessings and spiritual benefits.
From: Satapatha-brahmana
(1) Items offered during Vedic rituals that correlate with the number of months in a year, reflecting the cyclical nature of sacrificial offerings and their connection to time.[2] (2) Items given to officiating priests and participants as part of the completion of the ritual, including gold plates and cows.[3] (3) Offerings provided during rituals intended to honor the gods and priests, including items like gold, cows, cloth, and horses.[4] (4) Items given in the oblation resulting from the pressing of Soma that are meant for the deities.[5] (5) Items and offerings given during sacrifices, designated for various priests and participants, sustaining the ritual's sanctity and purpose.[6]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) Items offered during rituals, particularly in honor of deities and ancestors, as part of spiritual practices.[7] (2) Donations made during sacrifices, showcasing one's generosity and piety, which Mandhatri was noted for.[8] (3) Offerings made to the gods and Brahmanas during the ritual, which included clarified butter, food, and other valuable items.[9] (4) Offerings made during rituals, emphasizing the significance of generosity in spiritual practices.[10] (5) The offerings made by royal sages, which Yudhishthira seeks to understand in terms of their measure and the deeds of those who made them.[11]
From: Gautami Mahatmya
(1) Offerings made to deities and sages deemed essential for attaining blessings and fulfilling desires.[12] (2) Donations and offerings made as part of religious rites aimed at gaining spiritual benefits.[13]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) The act of giving up something in a ritual context, which must include a special reference to the recipient to be completed.[14] (2) Offerings made during a sacrifice that serve to honor deities or the deceased and demonstrate the performer's commitment to the rituals.[15]
From: Hiranyakesi-grihya-sutra
(1) Offerings made to deities during the marriage rituals, invoking blessings and prosperity for the couple.[16]
From: Apastamba Grihya-sutra
(1) An offering made during the rituals, such as the remains of sacrificial food or a bull presented to a Brahmana.[17]
From: Prem Sagar (English translation)
(1) Items of value offered as part of the sacrificial ceremonies, emphasizing the importance of generosity in rituals.[18]