Chapter 62

Vishnu Smriti 62

Now, for the twice-born, at the root of the little finger is the sacred part of the hand called Prājāpatya.[^1] // Vi_62.1 //

At the root of the thumb, the Brāhma. // Vi_62.2 //

At the tip of the fingers, the Daiva. // Vi_62.3 //

At the root of the forefinger, the Pitrya. // Vi_62.4 //

With water that has not been heated by fire, that is free from foam, that has not been brought by a Śūdra with one hand, and that is not saline, in a clean place, seated comfortably with his knees drawn up, facing east or north, with a concentrated and pleasant mind, he shall perform ācamana (the ritual sipping of water). // Vi_62.5 //

With the Brāhma tīrtha, he shall sip water three times. // Vi_62.6 //

He shall wipe his lips twice. // Vi_62.7 //

He shall touch the orifices of his head and his heart with water. // Vi_62.8 //

By water reaching the heart, throat, and palate, respectively, the twice-born become pure; / A woman and a Śūdra, by water that has once touched the inside of the mouth. || Vi_62.9 ||