yatana ṣarīra

In Hinduism, yatana \u1e61ar\u012bra refers to a substantial, reconstituted body that forms around the disembodied soul (preta) after death. This process is part of the elaborate death rituals designed to guide the soul through its journey.1

Immediately after death, the soul is encased in a temporary, vaporous structure called linga \u1e61ar\u012bra and is taken to Yama, the god of death, for an initial check. Upon return to the deceased's home, the soul awaits cremation. The first \u015br\u0101ddha ritual, performed around the 10th day, begins the reconstitution of the yatana \u1e61ar\u012bra by offering balls of barley flour to form parts of a new body, such as the head, neck, and chest. This ritual is crucial for the soul's progression and to prevent it from becoming a malevolent spirit. Further rituals continue this process, preparing the soul for its year-long journey to Yama's kingdom and eventual reincarnation based on its karma.1