Homa

Hinduism is often considered the oldest living religion in the world. The core ideals of the religion strongly believe in eliminating inner and outer imperfections, by demolishing undesirable elements and enriching positive energies in the environment.

To energize and protect the inner self and environment, Hinduism gives a significant place to homa. It is believed to be created by Lord Brahma for mans livelihood and the attainment of his desires.

The homa ritual is common to various Sanskara ceremonies in various Hindu traditions. The Vedic fire ritual is at the core of various homa ritual variations in Hinduism, which often combines fire and water, burnt offerings and soma. Fire is considered masculine, earth and water feminine. The fire is vertical,reaching upwards, while the altar, offerings and liquids are horizontal.

The altar, which is the ritual space of homa, is temporary and movable. The first step of this ritual is the construction of the mandapa, and the last step is its deconstruction. A priest with a recitation of mantras, creating a sacred space for the ceremony, consecrates the altar and mandapa. With hymns sung, the fire is started and offerings collected.

Homas are believed to connect humans to divine nature by providing them with a way to burn away ones karma and get closer to the Almighty. Believers of Hinduism perform them at almost all religious ceremonies and important events.