Ekadhana refers to a specific type of earthen jug or clay vessel used in the context of Somayaga, which is a Vedic ritual involving the extraction and offering of the soma juice. In the Somayaga ceremony, 3 to 11 ekadhanas are utilized to collect water from a running stream early in the morning on the same day the soma stalks are pressed to extract the soma juice.
The term "ekadhana" is not easy to derive a
specific meaning from, as it seems to be a specialized term related to this
ritualistic context. In the context of Somayaga, the earthen jug serves a
crucial purpose in holding the consecrated water that is later mixed with the
soma juice.
The use of these clay jugs symbolizes the purity and
sanctity associated with the ritual. The collection of water from a running
stream at a specific time and the subsequent mixing with soma juice are
integral parts of the intricate Vedic sacrificial process.
This ritual, with its detailed procedures and symbolic
elements, reflects the ancient cultural and religious practices of the Vedic
period, showcasing the importance of precise actions and materials in
performing sacred ceremonies. The use of ekadhana is just one example of the
meticulous attention given to every aspect of the Somayaga ritual.