Adhyaya 22 - Ashvamedha (Horse Sacrifice) - Part 1

The Ashvamedha (horse sacrifice) is the most famous of royal Vedic sacrifices. This Adhyaya begins the description with the selection and consecration of the sacrificial horse, its release to roam freely for a year, and the ritual protection of the horse by the king's army. The mantras invoke the gods' blessing on the horse and the king's sovereignty.