A History of Sanskrit Literature c12.12

c12.12

The various kinds of Soma sacrifices were much more complicated. Even the simplest and fundamental form, the *Agnishṭoma* ("praise of Agni") required the ministrations of sixteen priests. This rite occupied only one day, with three pressings of soma, at morning, noon, and evening; but this day was preceded by very detailed preparatory ceremonies, one of which was the initiation (*dīkshā*) of the sacrificer and his wife. Other soma sacrifices lasted for several days up to twelve; while another class, called *sattras* or "sessions," extended to a year or more.