General discussions

Hi folks,

I was just reviewing my notes thus far, and had some questions on the "Altar of Fire" video that we watched. 1). What is the significance of constructing the altar in the shape of a bird? Can it be any bird, or a specific type? 2). What are your thoughts on the "reality" of this event since it was staged? What about the authenticity of the ritual itself? This seemed like it was produced for academic use. Was it tailored to fit that purpose, or was the original ritual preserved in its exact form?

http://www.der.org/films/altar-of-fire.html (documentary page) and http://movies2.nytimes.com/gst/movies/movie.html?v_id=217022 (N.Y. times review) Thoughts? Ideas? --Stella 21:06, 29 January 2006 (MST)

I have some ideas on why the altar was constructed in the shape of a bird. For most Hindus, worship and religious rituals are conducted at home. As a part of daily ritual, gifts of food (usually small amounts of grain) are given to needy persons and animals, particularly birds. The self-sacrifice involved to do this earns much merit, and many Hindus believe offerings to needy persons and birds are received by their ancestors. So, I think this bird symbolizes self-sacrifice (of the goods being places into the altar) to earn good merit, as well as a rememberance of ancestors.

Hinduism disclaimer: In Hinduism, as in other religions, there are always varying interpretations, ideas, and beliefs. Most of my understanding comes from the way Hinduism is practiced in Western India. --Niyati 21:20, 1 February 2006 (MST)