Vedic Ritual and Sacrifices

People of ancient India excelled in performing Vedic ritual, invoking gods to resolve human issues. They considered Vedic ritual even more superior to God. The knowledge of Vedic ritual was all that mattered to them, since it was the source of all creation, diversity, and fulfillment of desires.

Here, with this post, we are going discuss about some of the aspects of Vedic ritual, how they were practiced and what part they played in the religious and social lives of common individuals.

The importance of sacrifices in Vedic religion

On the surface, you may notice difference between Vedic ritual and spiritual practices of Hinduism. But, after a close examination, you will figure out that both are complimentary rather than contradictory and play an important role in balancing the material and spiritual aspirations of individuals.

Ancient Indians used to practice numerous rituals and sacrifices which were called as Yajnas (Yagnas). These rituals and sacrifices were also known as homa, havana, and yaaga or yagya. Each sacrifices involved various offerings, such as, sacred fire (yagagni), utensils, one or more officiating priests (purohita), gifts (dakshina) for the priests and guests, expiation ceremony (prayaschitta) and several other concluding rituals.

These sacrifices were performed in temples, in open, palaces, or a temporary structure (yajnavatika) built for the purpose. The idea behind such sacrifices was to fulfill needs, please the gods, obtain their blessings, overcome problems, resolve issues or wash away sins.

Vedic people genuinely believed in the efficacy and divine nature of the sacrifices. They used to consider the reason behind every event and activity upon earth as divine cause or the activity of the gods. The idea of sacrifice was a way of life for them and a convenient means to ensure that they have some control over their lives and circumstances and if need arises, they could invoke the power of gods to alter them.

Vedic people believed that Vedic rituals can provide them with power to live like Gods upon earth. They used to believe that life is continues sacrifice in which they offered their lives and possessions as offerings. In order to achieve four aims of human life ­ namely Dharma, wealth, sexual pleasure and liberation, they relied upon Vedic rituals and sacrifices to express their allegiance to gods through prayers and chants.

Glorious Indian Culture and Heritage

In terms of area and population, India is one of the largest countries in the world. It has a prominent place in the South Asia. India, the land of 'Sujalam' (Full of sweet water) and 'Suflam' (Full of sweet fruit and crops), is blessed with varied cultural heritage. Since the time of Indus Valley Civilization (Harappan Civilization) till today, individuals have made our country rich and wealthy with their intellect, ability talents and skill. Numerous Scholars, artists, artisans, thinkers, sages, saints, scientists and historians have contributed to the growth and development Indian culture and heritage.

Indian culture and heritage differentiate India from rest of the world. Culture and Civilization are the distinguishing features of mankind. India has achieved a tremendous progress right from the primitive era to the modern day sky scrapers, jet planes and Satellite. All these can be incorporated in our Indian culture.

It is strongly believed by the historians and thinkers that India is the country from where the ray of culture emerged and great thoughts are propagated. Indian culture is the only culture in the world that spreads awareness of 'sat' (truth) 'chit' (concentration) and 'anand' (pleasure). Indian culture visualizes life with a rare vision and something auspicious.

Indian culture incorporates justice and morals, love and non-violence, mercy and compassion, mutual understating and harmony. The Himalayas, the river Ganga, the Yamuna, the Saraswati, the Sindh and the Kaveri makes a prominent place in the Indian culture and heritage.

The sole goal of Indian culture is to achieve 'Dharma'(righteousness) 'Artha' (material possession),'Kama' (physical pleasure) and 'Moksha' (salvation). India, as a country, is known for peace and tolerance. In Indian culture, there is no place for war, battle or strife. The culture of India aims at paying special attention to peace all around.

With vast geographical and physical conditions, there is a varied Indian culture and heritage. The history of India is more than thousands of years old. Numerous foreigners who invaded India were victorious, settled down here and merged in the ocean of Indian culture. With this regard, Indian culture and heritage is a precious gift from our ancestors. Indian heritage is both natural as well as man-made. The development of cultural heritage of India has taken place since the historic eras. Cultural heritage of India is linked with places, provinces or regions. It is also associated with families and communities.