428--Q&A WITH SWAMIJI-- Two homa questions

[Guest guest]

Question from Tom Gull:

What are the traditionally acceptable fire pits for homa?

Commercially, there are cast aluminum and copper pyramids, and I

guess one might be able to make a small box or large pyramid with

regular concrete. Are there specific dimensions (L, W, height)

that are preferred over others? Is standard concrete acceptable, or

should one procure a different mix for constructing one's own vedi?

 

Swamiji's response:There is an entire section of Vasta Shastra

dedicated to howan kunds. Traditionally there are two types: bedi and

kunda. A bedi or vedi, depending on region, is a raised platform. A

kunda is a lowered depression. Bedis get really hot. Kundas are hard

to reach all the points on the yantra. Light woods spit a lot of

sparks and coal chips. People who sit by a bedi always have burn

holes in their clothes.

Traditionally dimensions for bedis and kundas are spoken of in arm

lengths. Primarily they are triangular or square.

 

Sorry, I could go on and on.

Question from Tom Gull:

I have read somewhere that a fire sacrifice should not be done out in

the open, but under a shaded pavillion at least. Is this true, or

may one do it in the open, or under a shaded tree?

 

Swamiji's response:Both.