Significance of Snake poison
Snake poison encompasses various definitions across different fields. In Vaishnavism and Purana, it symbolizes negative influences and harmful thoughts that hinder mental clarity. Ayurveda and Rasashastra discuss its toxic properties from snake bites and methods of purification. In scientific terms, snake poison is a complex mixture of proteins and enzymes used by snakes for defense and prey immobilization. It also presents potential therapeutic applications. Overall, snake poison is both a physical toxin and a metaphor for harmful perceptions.
Synonyms: Serpent poison, Venom, Toxin, Poison
In Dutch: Slangengif; In Finnish: Käärmeen myrkkyä; In Spanish: Veneno de serpiente; In German: Schlangengift
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Snake poison'
In Buddhism, Snake poison symbolizes the destructive impact of misperceptions linked to sense perception, serving as a metaphor for the dangers of misunderstanding reality and the consequent suffering it can cause.
From: Akshayamatinirdesha [english]
(1) A metaphor illustrating the harmful nature of misperceptions related to the spheres of sense-perception.[1]
Hindu concept of 'Snake poison'
In Hinduism, Snake poison symbolizes both the literal venom that can be neutralized and a metaphor for harmful thoughts to overcome, reflecting the dual nature of toxicity and purification in spiritual practice and mental clarity.
From: Rasa Jala Nidhi, vol 3: Metals, Gems and other substances
(1) The toxic substance introduced into the body through a snake bite, which the treatment aims to neutralize or mitigate.[2] (2) A toxic substance obtained from snakes that can be rendered more potent or purified through specific processes involving other ingredients.[3]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) A toxic substance resulting from a snake's bite, from which Shri Garuda Pandita is unaffected due to the influence of holy names.[4]
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) A metaphor for the negative and harmful thoughts or influences one must repel to achieve mental clarity and peace.[5]
From: Sushruta Samhita, Volume 5: Kalpasthana
(1) Toxic substance secreted by snakes, characterized by its method of delivery and potent effects on victims.[6]