Significance of Lack of food
Lack of food, as discussed in Vaishnavism, Theravada, and historical India, reflects various states of deprivation and suffering. In Vaishnavism, it signifies a scarcity of nourishment, while in Theravada, it illustrates experiences during famine and the challenges faced by monks. Historical accounts emphasize the distress caused by hunger and the responsibilities of providing sustenance for families. Overall, Lack of food is a significant theme affecting spiritual practices, well-being, and family dynamics across these contexts.
Synonyms: Food scarcity, Food shortage, Hunger, Malnutrition, Famine, Starvation, Scarcity
In Dutch: Gebrek aan voedsel; In Finnish: Ruoan puute; In Spanish: Falta de comida; In German: Mangel an Nahrung; In Malay: Kekurangan makanan; In Swedish: Brist på mat
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Lack of food'
Lack of food in Buddhism symbolizes significant suffering, affecting petas, hindering monks' meditation, and embodying deprivation during famine, as seen with Maha Tissa, highlighting its impact on spiritual practice and community well-being.
From: Vinaya (2): The Mahavagga
(1) Describes the situation faced by the Bhikkhus when their access to sustenance is hindered due to external disasters.[1]
From: Maha Buddhavamsa—The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) A state of deprivation experienced by Maha Tissa during a famine which contributed to his exhaustion.[2]
From: Guide to Tipitaka
(1) A primary form of suffering experienced by petas.[3]
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) Insufficient sustenance that can hinder the monks' ability to meditate and practice effectively.[4]
Hindu concept of 'Lack of food'
In Hinduism, lack of food signifies both scarcity and deprivation of adequate nourishment, highlighting not only the physical absence of sustenance but also the oppressive effects it has on individuals and communities.
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) Indicates a scarcity of food; however, the speaker clarifies that they are not completely without something to eat.[5]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) A state of being deprived of adequate nourishment, which causes oppression.[6]
The concept of Lack of food in local and regional sources
Lack of food signifies a crucial theme impacting family dynamics, hunger, material scarcity, household struggles, and emotional distress, underscoring the dire need for nourishment and assistance among the characters in the narrative.
From: Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints
(1) The condition described by the wife regarding their older children's need for nourishment, highlighting tension in family responsibilities.[7] (2) The state of being hungry or experiencing food scarcity, as mentioned by the Brahman.[8] (3) The state of the speaker's household prior to using the touchstone, highlighting their struggle.[9] (4) The reason provided by the Brahman for his distress, stressing the importance of providing sustenance.[10] (5) A situation of scarcity faced by the characters, highlighting their need for material resources and assistance.[11]
From: Triveni Journal
(1) Indicates a scarcity of food resources available for the already existing population.[12]