Significance of Dhruva
Dhruva is a multi-faceted term in Hinduism, representing various concepts across different texts. In ritual contexts, it signifies essential elements of sacrifices, while in Vaishnavism, Dhruva is a significant devotee known for his unwavering faith and spiritual journey. He is often identified with the Pole Star, symbolizing stability in the cosmos. Additionally, Dhruva appears in musical and dramatic contexts, referring to specific rhythmic compositions. Overall, Dhruva embodies themes of devotion, constancy, and guidance within Hindu philosophy and rituals.
Synonyms: Pole star, North star, Guiding star
In Dutch: Dhruva; In German: Dhruva; In Spanish: Dhruva
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Dhruva'
Dhruva in Hinduism represents a figure notable for his unwavering devotion and rigorous penance, attaining an eternal abode. Symbolically, he is also the Pole Star, signifying steadfastness, guiding celestial movements, and spiritual growth.
From: Bharadvaja-srauta-sutra
(1) A specific reference point in the ritual, linked to the placement of the Veda during the sacrificial rites.[1] (2) An element positioned to the south of the Upabhrit, indicating a specific arrangement in the ritual.[2] (3) A term or place that signifies the position where the sacrificer's portion is placed during the ritual.[3] (4) Another ladle positioned in the ritual arrangement, used alongside the Juhu-ladle and Upabhrit.[4] (5) A specific measure or vessel used for taking up clarified butter in the ritual.[5]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) A type of star mentioned among various kinds of other stars.[6]
From: Baudhayana Dharmasutra
(1) A specific method among the nine ways of living listed in the text.[7]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) To Dhruva; a figure in the text who was granted an eternal kingdom.[8] (2) Worshiped by Dhruva (dhrauvya) - indicates a relationship of reverence directed towards the figure or deity named Dhruva.[9] (3) A historical figure and devotee known for his unwavering faith in Krishna and receiving protection during his trials.[10] (4) A significant character in Hindu texts known for his devotion and spiritual journey.[11]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) A five-year-old devotee mentioned in sacred texts whose age did not disqualify him from receiving God's mercy.[12]
From: Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu
(1) A revered figure in spiritual texts, known for his devotion and an example of someone who attained pure bhakti.[13]
From: Natyashastra (English)
(1) Chants or musical pieces performed at the entrance of characters, essential for setting the mood in plays.[14] (2) Songs that have been called Dhruvas by Brahmanas which consist of various types and classes, each with its own characteristics.[15] (3) A specific rhythmic and melodic form in music that is characterized by certain undulating patterns.[16] (4) A form of song with specific syllabic patterns and rhythmic structures to be used in various aspects of the Preliminaries.[17] (5) Dramatic songs that are integral to theatrical performances, categorized into different classes based on their thematic content and context.[18]
From: Satapatha-brahmana
(1) The dhruva represents the trunk of the sacrificial offering, from which all other elements of the sacrifice originate.[19] (2) A specific aspect of the ritual linked to life, which is also a focus during the sacrificial process.[20] (3) An additional offering made with butter, similar in reverence to Juhu and Upabhrit, and invoked into the sacrifice.[21]
From: Vishnu Purana
(1) A pivotal celestial pole-star around which all planets, stars, and asterisms are anchored, maintaining their circular orbits through aerial cords.[22] (2) The polar star, serving as a fixed point in the celestial sphere, symbolizing stability and endurance in the cosmos.[23]
From: Parama Samhita (English translation)
(1) A great Rishi who keeps the atmosphere turning and is associated with celestial movements.[24]
From: Yoga-sutras (with Vyasa and Vachaspati Mishra)
(1) A figure rewarded with a high position due to his virtuous actions driven by strong emotions.[25]
From: Thirty minor Upanishads
(1) The Polar Star, symbolizing the changing positions of celestial bodies, mentioned in the context of impermanence.[26]
The concept of Dhruva in local and regional sources
Dhruva signifies both the Pole Star, emblematic of marital fidelity, and a fixed reference in astronomy, essential for calculating planetary positions and constants, illustrating its diverse applications across cultural and scientific contexts.
From: History of Science in South Asia
(1) A constant value used in astronomical calculations, representing a fixed element in the determination of planetary positions, mentioned repeatedly throughout the text.[27] (2) This term refers to the pole, used in conjunction with other terms to define a circle.[28] (3) This term refers to constants, and it is used in various calculations, such as for the moon, and is added to other values to obtain mean positions.[29]
From: Triveni Journal
(1) The Pole Star, associated with constancy in marriage ceremonies.[30]