The Avesti or Aveshti is indeed a significant Vedic sacrificial ritual, categorized as a minor 'isti' ceremony within the broader framework of Vedic sacrifices. It is part of the ishti group, which comprises rituals involving four priests and is distinct from the more elaborate Somayagas. The Avesti can be conducted either as a subordinate rite within a larger Rajasuya sacrifice or as an independent ritual.
During the Avesti, the primary offering consists of
purodasas, which are rice dumplings. These purodasas are offered to appease
Agni, the sacred fire, and other deities associated with the cardinal
directions. The ritual acknowledges the divine forces that govern different
quarters, seeking their blessings and protection.
One notable aspect of the Avesti ceremony is the variety of
fees or offerings presented. Gold holds particular significance among these
offerings, emphasizing its importance in the sacrificial process. The act of
contributing gold as part of the ritual serves both as a symbol of wealth and
prosperity and as a tangible offering to the deities invoked during the
ceremony.
Whether performed independently or as part of a larger
Rajasuya sacrifice, the Avesti holds a distinct place in Vedic tradition. It
exemplifies the intricate and symbolic nature of Vedic rituals, which seek to
establish a connection between the human and divine realms through precise
ceremonies, offerings, and invocations.