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Significance of Natir

In Mahayana teachings, Natir is defined as the point directly below a specific location, symbolizing the lowest vertical direction. This concept emphasizes the importance of spatial orientation within the framework of Mahayana philosophy, highlighting how different points can represent various spiritual or physical aspects in the practice. Understanding Natir plays a role in comprehending the broader teachings and principles within Mahayana Buddhism.

In Dutch: Natir; In Finnish: Natir

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Buddhist concept of 'Natir'

Buddhism Books

In Buddhism, Natir symbolizes the lowest vertical direction, denoting a significant point directly beneath a location, which may represent humility, grounding, or a connection to the Earth in spiritual practice.

Significance in Mahayana (major branch of Buddhism):
Mahayana Books

From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra

(1) The point directly below a specific location, representing the lowest vertical direction.[1]

Mahayana is a major branch of Buddhism focusing on the path of a Bodhisattva (spiritual aspirants/ enlightened beings). Extant literature is vast and primarely composed in the Sanskrit language. There are many sutras of which some of the earliest are the various Prajnaparamita sutras.

Hindu concept of 'Natir'

Hinduism Books

In Hinduism, Natir represents the lowest point in the sky, shaped by the sun's rays, symbolizing a significant aspect of celestial dynamics and their influence on earthly phenomena.

Significance in Vedanta (school of philosophy):
Vedanta Books

From: Prashna Upanishad with Shankara’s Commentary

(1) The lowest point in the sky, influenced by the sun's rays.[2]

Vedanta refers to a school of orthodox Hindu philosophy (astika), drawing its subject-matter from the Upanishads. There are a number of sub-schools of Vedanta, however all of them expound on the basic teaching of the ultimate reality (brahman) and liberation (moksha) of the individual soul (atman).

The concept of Natir in local and regional sources

History Books

Natir relates to the concept of nadir, which is the lowest point opposite zenith in the sky, fundamental in defining azimuth arcs that connect both zenith and nadir points.

Significance in India history and geography:

From: History of Science in South Asia

(1) The nadir is the point opposite the zenith, used in the definition of the azimuth arcs, which pass through both the zenith and nadir.[3]