Significance of Heavenly Ganges
Heavenly Ganges is a significant concept with various interpretations in Hinduism and Theravada Buddhism. In Hinduism, it symbolizes divinity, purity, and serves as a vital river for rituals, such as weddings. It is also equated with the Milky Way and referenced in cosmic narratives. According to Theravada, it represents immense beauty, with its recitation likened to the majestic flow of the sacred river. Overall, Heavenly Ganges embodies both spiritual cleansing and celestial magnificence.
Synonyms: Divine ganges, Sacred ganges, Holy ganges, Celestial ganges
In Finnish: Taivaallinen Ganges; In Spanish: Ganges celestial
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Heavenly Ganges'
Heavenly Ganges in Buddhism symbolizes immense beauty and grandeur, equating the profound impact of learned recitation to the majestic flow of the sacred river, highlighting its significance in spiritual practice and enlightenment.
From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) A metaphor for pure and transformative teachings, reflecting how righteous discourse can cleanse and uplift individuals.[1] (2) A symbol of immense beauty and grandeur, suggesting that the learned recitation was as impressive as the flow of this sacred river.[2]
Hindu concept of 'Heavenly Ganges'
The Heavenly Ganges in Hinduism symbolizes purity and divinity, representing the sacred river's cosmic and ritual significance, linking it to Vishnu's journey, solar rays, and the Milky Way as a celestial river.
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) A sacred river in heaven that Vishnu crosses during his journey.[3] (2) A river of great significance in Hinduism, used for purification during rituals, especially in weddings.[4] (3) A metaphorical representation of divinity and purity associated with the sacred river Ganges.[5]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) A celestial river referenced as Ajavithi, associated with the back of the Zodiac.[6]
From: Vishnu Purana
(1) The symbolic water shed by solar rays, representing purity and divine cleansing.[7]
The concept of Heavenly Ganges in local and regional sources
Heavenly Ganges, derived from Sanskrit, signifies the ecliptic—the celestial path of planets. It draws a parallel to the river Vaiyai, emphasizing the cosmic journey analogous to the flow of a sacred river.
From: History of Science in South Asia
(1) The name in Sanskrit for the ecliptic, which is the course through the sky that planets travel, and is also compared to the river Vaiyai.[8]