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Skin Of Black Antelope In Hinduism – Krishnajina

The skin of black antelope in Hinduism is known as Krishnajina. It is a symbol of Vedic culture and holiness. The Shatapatha Brahmana (1.1.4. 1-2) compares yajna (sacrifice) to a black antelope with white, black and yellow hair representing respectively the Rig Veda, Sama Veda and Yajur Veda.

Krishnajina is used in yajna rites for various purposes including husking grains. This grain is used to prepare various naivedya or food offerings.

The skin of black antelope is used as a seat brahmachari (celibate) and various holy men including yati, rishi, muni and sannyasi.

A strip of Krishnajina was worn by the dvijas in the earlier days as yajmopavīta (sacred thread). It was later replaced with thread.