Avabhritha in Somayaga refers to the final purificatory bath that concludes the elaborate Vedic ritual known as Somayaga. This ritualistic performance is an ancient and intricate ceremony, with Avabhritha being a significant component that marks the culmination of the entire process. Let's delve into the details of Avabhritha in Somayaga:
Somayaga Overview: Somayaga is a complex Vedic ritual involving the ceremonial offering of Soma, a sacred plant, into the fire. This ritual is conducted in a dedicated yagyashala, or sacrificial shed, with the participation of various priests and the yajamana (sacrificer) along with his wife.
Avabhritha Ritual:
- Preliminary Rites: Before Avabhritha, there are several preliminary rites performed in the yagna shala to prepare for the final stage.
- Procession to the Water: The yajamana and his wife, accompanied by the priests, proceed to a flowing river or reservoir. This marks the transition from the yajnashala to a natural water body.
- Final Bath: Avabhritha involves a ceremonial bath in the water. During this bath, specific rituals take place to purify the participants and conclude the Somayaga.
- Disposal of Utensils: After the bath, there is a disposal of various items used in the ritual, including utensils, antelope skin, and the yoktra (cord of munja grass worn by the wife). The utensils are smeared with soma juice before being discarded.
- Ahavaniya Fire Symbolism: A handful of kusha grass thrown on the water serves as the symbolic representation of the ahavaniya fire, an essential element in Vedic rituals.
- Chanting of Avabhritha-Saman: A special chant called avabhritha-saman is recited during this final purification ceremony, adding a sacred and melodic dimension to the ritual.
Symbolism and Significance: Avabhritha holds symbolic importance, representing the conclusion and purification of the elaborate Somayaga. The use of water, the disposal of ritual items, and the chanting of specific hymns contribute to the spiritual and symbolic significance of this final bath.
Usage Beyond Somayaga: The term 'avabhritha-snana' is not limited to Somayaga but is also used to denote ceremonial baths concluding major religious rites. For example, it can signify the purification bath after the consecration of a new temple, emphasizing the broader application of this ceremonial practice in various religious contexts.
In essence, Avabhritha in Somayaga is a profound ritualistic
conclusion, blending purification, symbolism, and sacred chants to bring
closure to the intricate Vedic ceremony.