manusmriti

LAWS OF MANU
Karnavedham of Brahmin boy (both ears pierced)
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 medieval
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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