The "Dasahotarah" is a significant aspect of Vedic rituals, particularly in the context of Agnyadheya or Agnyadhana, which were primary rites in the Vedic era for kindling the sacred Vedic fires like the garhapatya. These fires were essential and symbolized various aspects of the cosmos and human existence.
The term "Dasahotarah" refers to a set of ten
sentences or mantras derived from the Taittiriya Aranyaka (3.1). These mantras
play a crucial role in the ritual of kindling the fire. They are recited when
the upper arani (a wooden stick used for generating fire by friction) is placed
on the lower one before churning, as part of the process of igniting the sacred
fire.
Each of the ten short sentences within the Dasahotarah
identifies different parts of the human body with various elements connected to
the sacrifice. These connections serve to symbolize the intricate relationship
between the microcosm of the human body and the macrocosm of the sacrificial
ritual and the universe as a whole.
For example, "om cittih sruk" associates the mind
(cittih) with the ladle (sruk), symbolizing the mental aspect of the sacrifice.
Similarly, "cittam ajyam" links the mind (cittam) with the offering
of clarified butter (ajyam), representing the mental offering or intent behind
the ritual act.
Overall, the Dasahotarah underscores the deep symbolic
significance of Vedic rituals, emphasizing the interconnectedness of the human
being with the cosmic order and the importance of intention and mindfulness in
sacrificial practices.