Ethnobiological Analysis from Myth to Science, XI: Pancha Yajnya (Five Sacrifices) - The Philosophy of Tantra and Religious Ecology of India

摘要

All the Devataas (environmental powers) of Hindu mythology are broadly classified into five groups, popularly known as Pancha Devataa: the single iconic representative of each group are Ganesh, Soorya, Vishnu, Ssiva and Durgaa. The worship of Pancha Devataa has an underneath relationship with the Pancha Yajnya (five sacrifices) concept of Manusmruti, to express one's obligation for the different environmental aspects. Ganesh is comparable with the community activity or Nrru Yajnya; obligation offered to Sun God (Soorya) is a token of respect and remembrance to forefathers: Pitru Yajnya; Vishnu, the fostering power of the biodiversity represents Bhoota Yajnya; Ssiva is comparable with the ancient Indian sages and seers, a source of knowledge, universal teacher equalized with Rrushi Yajnya and Durgaa, an integration of all Godly powers represents the Deva Yajnya.