From: seanc130@hotmail.com   
      
   "T Block"  wrote   
      
   > "Vibhuti is the sacred ash used in religious worship in Hinduism. The   
   > vibhuti ash is generally the residue of cow dung that is burned in a   
   > sacred fire (Homa). Main ingredient of Vibuthi is cow dung ash but several   
   > other substances prescribed in scriptures also used. Vibuthi is placed on   
   > the forehead as it is considered sacred and holy. Some devotees add a   
   > small amount to the tongue to pay respect to the deity.   
   >   
   > OK, I understand all about religious customs and all, but cow dung on the   
   > tongue?   
      
   No. The *burnt residue* of what *used* to be cow dung on the tongue.   
      
   Fire is a chemical reaction that completely changes the fundamental nature   
   of matter on the molecular level. 'Cow dung' and 'ashes derived from cow   
   dung' are two entirely different substances.   
      
   --   
   --Sean   
   http://spclsd223.livejournal.com   
      
   Cameron: We've got rectal bleeding.   
      
   House: What, all of you?   
      
   --- SoupGate-DOS v1.05   
    * Origin: you cannot sedate... all the things you hate (1:229/2)