Significance of Four directions
Synonyms: North, South, East, West
In Dutch: Vier richtingen; In Finnish: Nelj盲 suuntaa; In Spanish: Cuatro direcciones; In German: Vier Richtungen
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Four directions'
In Buddhism, the Four Directions symbolize inclusivity within the community of monks, mark the Bodhisattva's expansive influence, and highlight the interconnectedness of spatial awareness and pristine cognition, emphasizing love, mercy, and a refuge sought but often unmet.
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) The cardinal points the Bodhisattva regarded before proclaiming his intent to achieve enlightenment.[1] (2) The cardinal directions (east, south, west, north) plus intermediate directions; significant in the context of the bodhisattva's ability to see or understand the surroundings.[2] (3) In the context of caturdvipaka, this represents the spatial boundaries of a single universe as perceived by worldly persons using the divine eye.[3] (4) The cardinal directions examined by the Bodhisattva as he proclaims his superiority and mission, symbolizing his all-encompassing reach.[4]
From: Shurangama Sutra (with commentary) (English)
(1) Refers to the four cardinal points, highlighting the limitation of the senses to only perceive a partial reality.[5] (2) The four aspects of spatial orientation that, along with time, contribute to the formation and fluctuation of the world.[6]
From: Vinaya (3): The Cullavagga
(1) A phrase indicating the broad and inclusive reach of the Samgha, suggesting all communities may be served.[7]
From: Vinaya (2): The Mahavagga
(1) A term used to represent the entirety of the Samgha, encompassing all monks present and those who are absent.[8]
From: The Great Chariot
(1) A metaphorical representation of searching for refuge or support in all places, often leading to the realization that none can be found at the time of death.[9]
From: Apadana commentary (Atthakatha)
(1) The act of saluting in each of the four cardinal directions, an expression of reverence.[10]
Hindu concept of 'Four directions'
In Hinduism, the Four Directions symbolize the cardinal points (North, South, East, West), representing universality, the widespread sound of chanting, and the inclusive nature of devotion surrounding Lord Gaura and Nityananda, emphasizing the expansive reach of spiritual energy.
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) Refers to all cardinal directions (north, south, east, west) and signifies a complete observation of the surroundings.[11] (2) The cardinal directions, representing the comprehensive spatial area in which inauspiciousness was eliminated.[12] (3) Refers to the four cardinal points where the glorification of the Lord is taking place.[13] (4) The cardinal directions from which the Vaishnavas gathered, highlighting the wide reach of the emotional response.[14] (5) Symbolizes the four cardinal points, indicating total presence or oversight.[15]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) The cardinal points (north, south, east, west) referred to as 'dicasu' in the text.[16] (2) The cardinal points (north, south, east, west) toward which the Yadavas fled.[17] (3) A conceptual garment that symbolizes encompassing the entire space; termed 'dig-ambara' in the text, suggesting an expansive and all-encompassing form of dress.[18] (4) The four directions refer to the cardinal points where the names Vrndavana, Govardhana, Vrnda, and Tulasi should be written.[19]
From: Chaitanya Mangala
(1) The encompassing area where sounds and activities from the wedding celebrations were emanating.[20] (2) A phrase indicating the widespread impact of Lord Gaura's actions, encompassing all devotees in every area.[21] (3) The various areas around Navadvipa where Mother Shaci inquired about the rumor.[22] (4) The expansive area around Lord Gaura filled with the sounds of chanting, emphasizing the widespread devotion and energy of the moment.[23]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) The compass points that Shri Krishna surveyed while observing his surroundings.[24] (2) A phrase indicating that sorrow is omnipresent in every direction, emphasizing the widespread nature of grief.[25]
From: Gobhila-grihya-sutra
(1) The cardinal points (north, south, east, west) referenced during the ceremony for various offerings.[26]
From: Mundaka Upanishad with Shankara鈥檚 Commentary
(1) The cardinal points that are symbolically represented by the deity's ears, signifying comprehensive awareness.[27]
From: Satapatha-brahmana
(1) Describes the placement of regional bricks around the altar, symbolizing completeness and the natural order as recognized in spiritual rituals.[28]
Jain concept of 'Four directions'
In Jainism, the Four Directions symbolize the cardinal points associated with the placement of the four mahapatala kalashas around the Salt Sea, reflecting a structured cosmology inherent to Jain beliefs.
From: Bhagavati-sutra (Viyaha-pannatti)
(1) The cardinal points that are referenced concerning the arrangement of the four mahapatala kalashas around the Salt Sea.[29]
The concept of Four directions in local and regional sources
The keyphrase "Four directions" pertains to the main cardinal directions referenced in two hymn collections, emphasizing their significance in cultural or spiritual contexts as foundational elements in the described texts.
From: History of Science in South Asia
(1) Four directions are commonly mentioned in the two hymn collections, and they are undoubtedly the four main directions, according to the provided text.[30]
From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda
(1) The attempt to help mankind to become beautifully balanced in all these is the ideal of religion, according to Vivekananda's philosophy.[31]