Avantara Deeksha is a concept related to Vedic sacrifices. In Vedic rituals, particularly during yajnas or sacrifices, the concept of deeksha or initiation holds significant importance. The yajamana, the one performing the sacrifice, undergoes deeksha at the beginning of the ritual, which involves adhering to specific rules and a code of conduct to purify oneself for the sacred ceremony.
In addition to the primary deeksha, there is another aspect
known as "avantara deeksha." This is taken before the commencement of
subsidiary rites within a larger sacrifice. These subsidiary rites are
considered essential, and the yajamana, along with his wife, undergoes avantara
deeksha to prepare for these specific rituals.
As an example, in the context of the Agnistoma, a Soma Yaga,
avantara deeksha is performed before the pravargya rite. During this process,
the yajamana and his wife participate in various symbolic actions, such as
offering fuel sticks into the ahavaniya and garhapatya fires. The yajamana
clenches his fists while touching the heated water in the vessel called
'madanti,' tightens his girdle, and drinks hot milk. The avantara deeksha
concludes with the nihnava, a salutation to heaven and earth offered by the priests.
The intricate rituals and symbolic actions involved in
avantara deeksha not only signify the adherence to tradition and the sacred
nature of the sacrifice but also emphasize the spiritual and purificatory
aspects of the entire Vedic ceremony. These rituals are deeply rooted in the
ancient Vedic traditions, highlighting the importance of discipline,
purification, and the ceremonial aspect of performing sacrifices.