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Karnavedha (IAST: Karṇavedha) (literally,
ear-piercing) is piercing the ears. This is done with a
particular thorn. Butter is applied to the wound. It is
applicable to both male and female children. (MW cites
Purāna-Sarvasva.)
Karnavedha (Sanskrit: कर्णवेध, Karṇavedha)
or Karnavedham is one of the Hindu Samskaras (sacraments)
performed for a child. It is an ear piercing ceremony that
occurs in the third or fifth year for some Hindu children. This
can still be performed in later years.
Brahmins perform Karnavedha, which is one of the sixteen major
Samskaras (rites) during the course of their lifetime.
Brahmins follow these complex rituals in connection with major
events in their lives, such as pregnancy, childbirth, education,
marriage, and death. The major Samskaras 16 in number are
generally known as "Shodasha Samskaras". These samskara's are
mentioned in the Veda's, Karnavedha is noted to be performed by
male Hindu's as well (see picture). It is stated in the Veda's
that Brahmin's male and female, adhere to all Samskara's as they
are considered the highest class of the 4 varna's, said to
occupy the first position among the four varnas of Hinduism.
Karnavedha not only applies to females but to males as well. Due
to modern western influences Karnavedha has become an uncommon
ritual overtime amongst males. Karnavedha should still be
performed just as Upanayanam (thread ceremony - another major
samskara ) or any other Samskara as each holds equivalent
spiritual value.
Karnavedha is a Vedic rite of passage. Common between male and
females, it is intended to open the inner ears of the child for
receiving sacred sounds. This rite has deep mystical and
symbolic significance. It is believed that merely hearing sacred
sounds has merit in that it cleanses sin and nurtures the
spirit.
As years passed, the "Karnavedha" became religious attire so its
recital became obligatory and not doing it is regarded as sin in
some places. According to a mediaeval writer, "All the
accumulated merits disappear at the sight of a Brahmana through
whose ear holes do not pass the rays of the sun. No gift should
be given to him in the Sraddha ceremonies. If one gives, he
becomes an `asura` or demon."
One should not think that due to modern lifestyle or appearance
that karnavedha should not be performed for males. You cannot
accept another Samskara and deny another due to this. Preventing
a child or person from performing anyone of the 16 Samskara's
even not knowing, can cause great spiritual disruption and
negativity.
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