Atharvaveda ancillary literature (Study)
by B. R. Modak | 1959 | 179,855 words
The essay studies the ancillary literature of the Atharva-Veda with special reference to the Parisistas. It does so by understanding the socio-cultural and philosophical aspects of ancient Indian life. The Atharvaveda addresses encompasses all practical aspects of life from health and prosperity to rituals and sorcery. This thesis systematically ex...
Part 3a.6 - Descriptions of the Sacrificial Grass
[Full title: Ritual observances (6) The Sacrificial Grass]
The kusa-blades or the darbha-blades are indispensable in a sacrificial ritual. They are used for a variety of purposes such as strewing, sprinkling etc. These blades should be cut off according to a prescribed procedure. should hold the growing kusa-blades with the left hand and should strike at their roots with an axe or a sword only once. The blades cut in this way are called sakrdacchina (cut in one stroke). The blades should be one hasta in length. The sacrificial grass should always have its ends intact. It should be either green or dry and should not have a sprout within it 33. The darbha-blades should always be held in the hand while reciting a mantra, offering an oblation 34. A little mat or performing the ceremony for the manes made of the sacrificial grass (or of wool) and known as kasipu is to be used for sitting upon while performing rite (23.5.4). 33. The Brahmakurca-Vidhi (38.2.3) prescribes the use of the sacrificial grass consisting of seven blades each, for making the offerings of clarified butter. 34. cf. Atharvaveda-Parisistas 23.10.7: kusahastena kartavya japahomapitrkriyah |