In Hindu Literature 233 



parts ; and besides seas of fresh and salt water, we have 

 them of treacle, honey, milk and wine." 



The early Hindu world very closely resembled the 

 Golden Age of the Greeks, as is described in a splendid 

 passage in the '' Vishnu-Puraha." 



" The waters became solid, when he (the mighty 

 Pi-fthu) traversed the ocean : the mountains opened him a 

 path : his banner passed unbroken through the forest : the 

 earth needed not cultivation ; and, at a thought, food was 

 prepared : all kine were like the cow of plenty : honey was 

 stored in every flower." 



In the later writings we find that honey has not lost its 

 place in ceremonials, but as of old is used at bridals and is 

 put upon the tongue of the new-born male child. 



It is also an important factor in the respectful reception 

 of a guest. 



Honey is necessary at ancestral ceremonies, as we learn 

 from the following : — 



" The flesh of the rhinoceros, Kalasaka (pot herb, sacred 

 basil), and honey are, also, especial sources of satisfaction 

 to those worshipped at ancestral ceremonies." 



" In former times, O king of the earth, this song of the 

 Pitfis was heard by Ikshwaku, the son of Manu, in the 

 groves of Kalapa. 



" ' Those of our descendants shall follow a righteous path, 

 who shall reverently present us with cakes of Gaya. May 

 he be born in our race, who shall give us, on the tliirteenth 

 of Bhadrapada and Magha, milk, honey and clarified but- 

 ter : or when he marries a maiden, or liberates a black bull, 

 or performs any domestic ceremony agreeable to rule, ac- 

 companied by donations to the Brahmans.' " 



The student learning the sacred books is prohibited the 

 use of honey and flesh and to eat of these necessitates a 

 penance. 



