I read somewhere on twitter that that sati pratha was not part of Hinduism so which Hindu scriptures discuss the Sati practice? History of Hindu Religion

9 points | Post submitted by metadota 1681 days ago | 4 comments | viewed 2206 times

I read somewhere on twitter that that sati pratha was not part of Hinduism so which Hindu scriptures discuss the Sati practice?

But I also saw someone commenting:

Sati is not a questionable practice. It is the greatest display of chastity a woman can show toward her husband, and since chastity comes from the mind, it is only true if it is voluntary. It is also religious, because it is accepted by shastras and they mention phalan (great rewards) for this act. It is not 'merely cultural'


Is there any way to get any reference of scripture ? 


  • jay 1681 days ago | +1 points

    Only a Pativrata alone can enter the pyre upon the death of her husband. That too, if she has young children, or she is pregnant, or she is menstruating, even a Pativrata too cannot undergo Sati.

    I will provide verses from scriptures which discuss Sati practice: 

    Parasara Smriti 4.32

    If a woman follows her departed lord, by burning herself on the same funeral pyre, she will dwell in heaven for as many years as there are hairs on the human frame, — which reach the number of three crores and a half.

    Vishnu Dharma Sutra 25.14

    After the death of her husband, to preserve her chastity, or to ascend the pile after him.

    Agni Purana 222.223

    The widow who practices self-control and austerities after the death of her husband, goes to heaven…the widow who burns herself on the same funeral pire wth her husband also goes to heaven.

    [reply]
    • Ikshvaku 358 days ago | +0 points

      Can you pls mention the verses that says if the woman is pregnant or has young child or is menstruating she cannot perform sati.

      [reply]
    • freeideas345 87 days ago | +0 points

      No Hindu scriptures advocate or endorse burning women. The idea of burning women is not supported by the core texts of Hinduism, including the Vedas, Upanishads, Puranas, or the great epics like the Mahabharata and Ramayana.

      However, there are some historical practices and interpretations that have been subject to criticism, such as **"Sati"** (also spelled "suttee"), where a widow was expected to self-immolate on her husband’s funeral pyre. It is crucial to note that:

      1. **Sati** was never universally mandated by the Hindu scriptures; rather, it was a social custom that developed over time. This practice was officially condemned and abolished in the 19th century by British colonial authorities and social reformers such as Raja Ram Mohan Roy.

      2. **Scriptural References**: Hindu scriptures like the Vedas, Upanishads, and the Puranas emphasize dharma (righteous duty) and respect for all beings. For instance:

         - **Manusmriti 5.154**: Advises against harsh treatment of women, emphasizing that respect and care should be given to women.

         - **Mahabharata**: Contains numerous verses emphasizing respect for women and the importance of protecting them.

      The emphasis in Hinduism is on compassion, righteousness, and respect for all individuals. If you have specific verses or texts in mind, please let me know, and I can provide more detailed information.

      Reference shared are not correct translations sankrit. Hindus need to work with these translators and get them corrected.

      [reply]

  • Ikshvaku 358 days ago | +0 points

    Can you pls mention the verses that says if the woman is pregnant or has young child or is menstruating she cannot perform sati.

    [reply]

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