The Give-and-Take of Existence

Prajāpati, the creator, keeps on performing a cosmic yajna that results in natural phenomena like seasons, winds, and rainfall—essentially, the life-supporting processes on Earth. This yajna involves a constant outpouring or 'loss' (referred to as pravargya or ucchiṣṭa, meaning the 'oozed out' portion) of Prajāpati's creative energy (yajña retas, symbolically called 'semen').

To compensate for this continual expenditure by Prajāpati, humans perform their own yajnas. These rituals are not mere offerings but are acts of alignment with the cosmic process. The practitioners mentally attune themselves to the universal yajna, symbolically returning energy to the atmosphere to replenish what has been expended by Prajāpati.

This reciprocal exchange—Prajāpati's giving and humans' replenishing—sustains the yajña cycle of the universe. It's a take-and-give system where the balance of the cosmos is maintained through continuous mutual offerings between the divine and human realms.

• Symbolism of Yajna: The concept emphasizes the interconnectedness of all existence. The natural world's cycles are seen as a result of divine actions, and human efforts are a means to participate in and support these cycles.
• Energy Exchange: The 'loss' by Prajāpati represents the dispersion of creative energy that fuels life. Human sacrifices symbolize a conscious effort to give back to the source, acknowledging dependence on and responsibility towards the natural world. It reflects the idea that all actions have consequences and that sustaining life requires active participation and reciprocity.
• Psychological and Social Function: These rituals reinforce a sense of harmony with the cosmos and promote societal values like gratitude, responsibility, and the importance of sustaining balance in nature.

The universe operates on a principle of mutual exchange, and human beings have a vital role in maintaining the harmony of the cosmos through mindful actions and rituals.

Ramaswamy Sastry and Vighnesh Ghanapaathi