Significance of Dust
In Swedish: Damm; In Dutch: Stof; In Finnish: 笔枚濒测; In Spanish: Polvo; In German: Staub; In Malay: Habuk; In French: 笔辞耻蝉蝉颈猫谤别
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Dust'
In Buddhism, "Dust" symbolizes worldly attachments, impurities of the mind, and distractions obscuring self-nature. It represents defilements trapping beings in the cycle of rebirth, emphasizing the need for liberation and enlightenment.
From: Shurangama Sutra (with commentary) (English)
(1) Symbolically used to represent the impurities and distractions that obscure the clarity of the self nature.[1] (2) A metaphorical reference to worldly attachments and distractions that prevent enlightenment.[2] (3) Symbolizes worldly defilements and the mundane concerns that trap beings in the cycle of birth and death, from which one aims to be liberated.[3] (4) Symbolically represents the impurities of the mind that cannot be washed away by physical means, marking the insight Bhadrapala had.[4]
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) The particulate matter stirred by the light of the sun and wind that plays a critical role in the formation of mirages.[5]
Hindu concept of 'Dust'
In Hinduism, Dust signifies the sacred ground of Lord Krishna's footprints, represents obscured human understanding of non-violence, embodies humility and devotion, and signifies a spiritual element derived from Shacidevi鈥檚 feet in rituals.
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) In this context, the finest particles from the feet of the divine, representing humility, devotion, and sanctity.[6] (2) The ground on which Lord Krishna's footprints are found, symbolizing the material world that interacts with the divine.[7]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) The substance taken from Shacidevi鈥檚 feet, symbolizing a spiritual or sacred element in the context of the ritual.[8]
The concept of Dust in local and regional sources
Dust symbolizes humility and life's impermanence, serving as a potent image in reference to respect and devotion. It's linked to royal reverence, religious fervor, and the belief that touching it signifies a profound blessing.
From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda
(1) This is where Mohammed would grovel, representing his extreme religious fervor and his deep devotion, highlighting the intensity of his faith.[9] (2) The dust is what the Rajput chief said that Pratap Singh's head should never touch.[10] (3) This is a reference to the feet, and the author expresses his belief that being allowed to take it is a blessing.[11]
From: Triveni Journal
(1) The fine particles often symbolizing humility or the impermanence of life.[12]
From: Bede's Ecclesiastical History of England
(1) This is the collected material taken from the green spot, which was believed to have healing properties and kept in the linen cloth.[13]
The concept of Dust in scientific sources
Dust consists of tiny particles that pose health risks when inhaled, highlighting its significance as a public health concern due to its potential to affect respiratory health in individuals exposed to it.
From: The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences
(1) This is a collection of small particles that can be inhaled and cause health problems.[14]