By Swami Harshananda
Tarpaṇa literally means ‘satiating’.
Significance of Tarpaṇa[edit]
Tarpaṇa is one of the items connected with āhnika or daily ritual to be performed by a dvija.[1] It is a part of snāna[2] and the pañcamahāyajñas.
Ritual of Tarpaṇa[edit]
While still standing in water after bathing in a river or tank, one has to offer water thrice taking it in the joined palms of hand, with appropriate mantras, to all the beings of creation from Brahmā[3] to a blade of grass.
Tarpaṇa as per Manusmrti[edit]
Tarpaṇa to devas,[4] pitṛs[5] and ṛṣis[6] is a compulsory part of the daily routine of every brahmacārin.[7] The water may sometimes be mixed with sesame. Such tarpaṇa is said to satiate the gods, manes and sages to whom it is offered.
References[edit]
- The Concise Encyclopedia of Hinduism, Swami Harshananda, Ram Krishna Math, Bangalore