Significance of Garland
Synonyms: Wreath, Crown, Decoration, Drapery, Ornament, String
In Malay: Garland; In Dutch: Guirlande; In French: Guirlande; In Finnish: Seppele; In Spanish: Guirnalda; In German: Girlande; In Swedish: Krans
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Garland'
In Buddhism, "Garland" symbolizes both beauty and ethical conduct—flowers worn by the Exalted One represent adornment while decorative offerings from monks to families may signify moral shortcomings, reflecting dual meanings in spiritual practice.
From: Mahavastu (great story)
(1) Flowers strung together, which were provided to the Exalted One for adornment.[1]
From: Vinaya Pitaka (1): Bhikkhu-vibhanga (the analysis of Monks� rules)
(1) Decorations made by the monks, which they delivered to reputable families, often symbolizing their unethical conduct.[2]
Hindu concept of 'Garland'
In Hinduism, garlands symbolize honor, respect, and devotion, used in rituals, marriage ceremonies, and worship. They are decorative floral arrangements worn or presented to deities and signify acceptance and love in spiritual practices.
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) Floral decorations associated with Lord Jagannatha, used to adorn the devotees.[3] (2) Floral decorations worn as necklaces during the kirtana, enhancing the celebratory and devotional ambiance.[4] (3) A decorative wreath or chain worn on the head or around the neck, which Nityananda put on.[5] (4) Decorative wreaths made of flowers or leaves, mentioned as items being distributed without discretion.[6] (5) Garlands refer to decorative wreaths or bands that are typically made of flowers or leaves, given by the Lord as a blessing.[7]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) A circular arrangement of flowers, used in worship and as a symbol of respect in spiritual traditions.[8]
From: Prem Sagar (English translation)
(1) A symbol of acceptance and love, used during the marriage ceremony when the wives choose Krishna.[9]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) Garlands are decorative items made of flowers that were carried by the participants as a token of respect or celebration.[10]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) Decorative items worn by Brahmanas, signifying honor and respect during the rituals.[11]
From: Natyashastra (English)
(1) Decorative items that come in various forms like encircling, knotted, or hung-down to be used in costumes.[12]
The concept of Garland in local and regional sources
Garland signifies multiple connections within the text: decorative items crafted by the old woman symbolizing familial ties, flower arrangements sold to the Raja, and a romantic offering representing love and affection in various contexts.
From: Folklore of the Santal Parganas
(1) Decorative items made by the old woman in the Jogi’s garden, signifying the connection to the boy's mother and the unfolding of key events.[13] (2) A flower arrangement sold by the daughters to the Raja.[14]
From: Triveni Journal
(1) A symbolic offering often used to signify love and affection, especially in romantic contexts.[15]