History of Dharmashastra (Ancient and Mediaeval Religious and Civil Law in India) v5.c72.193.3

v5.c72.193.3

Only *nitya* and *naimittika* acts to be performed in Vedic and Smārta fires are allowed and so *kāmya* rites cannot be performed. Even at present Agnihotrins perform their śrauta *nitya homa* during days of impurity themselves, though some get it performed by another (Vide Yāj. III. 17, Manu V 84). Although there is a text of Gobhilasmṛti (III 60) prohibiting the performance of *sandhyā*, yet relying on a sūtra of Paithīnasi the Mit says that a man can offer water to the Sun in worship; others like the Smṛtimuktāphala (p. 478) say that sandhyā mantras may be revolved in the mind, except the prāṇāyāma mantras. This is followed in modern times in many parts of India. Viṣṇu Dh. S. 22 6 prescribes that in impurity due to birth or death *homa* (Vaiśvadeva), giving and accepting gifts and the study of Veda cease. The Vaik Sm. S. VI.4 states that the performance of *sandhyā* adoration, all rites for the gods and manes, gift and acceptance and Veda study should be given up during impurity on death. Gautama 14.44 appears to hold that a brāhmaṇa is not affected by impurity on birth and death for the purposes of Veda study. On the other hand Saṁvarta⁵⁵¹ (43) affirms that on the days of impurity on birth and death there is no performance of the five Mahāyajñas nor of Veda study. The Nityācāra-paddhati p 544 states that even in aśauca the thousand names of Viṣṇu may be recited.