Hinduism
In Hindu dharma, the birth of a child is considered a religious activity. Samskaras begin prior to birth and end with the cremation of the body following death. The number of samskaras prescribed in various scriptures vary from eleven to forty, some of the most significant samskars are :
- Garbhadhana (conception)
- Jatakarma (child birth)
- Namakarana (naming a child)
- Annaprasana (giving the child solid food)
- Mundan (shaving the head)
- Upanayana (sacred thread ceremony
Garbhadhana - The rite through which a man placed his seed in a woman.
Jatakarma - Ceremony that welcomes the baby into the world.
Namakarana - Ceremony the child is given a name.
Annaprasana - Related to the time when the child is to be given solid food apart from the mother’s milk. This emphasizes the importance of proper health care and nutrition for the child.
Mundan - Vidhi is performed to carry out the first hair cut of the baby.
Upanayana - ceremony to mark stages in the life of a Hindu.
Jatakarma - Ceremony that welcomes the baby into the world.
Namakarana - Ceremony the child is given a name.
Annaprasana - Related to the time when the child is to be given solid food apart from the mother’s milk. This emphasizes the importance of proper health care and nutrition for the child.
Mundan - Vidhi is performed to carry out the first hair cut of the baby.
Upanayana - ceremony to mark stages in the life of a Hindu.