Q&A with Swamiji .....139...Homa and Agnihotra

[Guest guest]

Question from Ganesha:

 

I have sometimes read that in the homas it is necessary to use cow

dung and other times I read that it is necessary to use wood. When

is it necessity to use each of these things?

Why? Which differ there are between agnihotra and homa?

 

Swamiji's response :

 

Agnihotra is an abbreviated homa, usually performed in a small

vessel for a short period of time. Homa is a larger homa, performed

for a longer period of time.

 

The agnihotra uses dried cow dung as a fuel, trying to produce a

smoky incense. Often we use it to chase mosquitos as well. The homa

uses wood, is not movable once invoked, and often a text of mantras

is recited with offerings for each mantra.