Significance of Tears of joy
Tears of joy, as interpreted across various traditions such as Jainism, Vaishnavism, Purana, Kavya, Dharmashastra, Mahayana, and Indian history, represent profound emotional responses stemming from overwhelming happiness or relief. This phenomenon is often witnessed during reunions, significant spiritual experiences, or moments of deep gratitude and devotion. Notable examples include Shreyamsa's joy upon witnessing the Lord, Sita's relief at reuniting with her sons, and parents expressing happiness following their children's achievements, emphasizing the deep emotional connections inherent in life events and spiritual moments.
Synonyms: Tears of happiness, Joyful tears, Blissful tears
In Dutch: Tranen van vreugde; In Finnish: Ilon kyyneleet; In Spanish: L谩grimas de alegr铆a; In German: Tr盲nen der Freude; In Malay: Air mata kegembiraan; In Swedish: T氓rar av gl盲dje; In French: Des larmes de joie
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Tears of joy'
In Buddhism, Tears of joy symbolize the profound emotional release and gratitude experienced by Ananda, reflecting appreciation for the Buddha's teachings and the attainment of freedom from suffering.
From: Shurangama Sutra (with commentary) (English)
(1) The emotional release experienced by Ananda as an expression of gratitude for the Buddha's teachings and the escape from suffering.[1]
Hindu concept of 'Tears of joy'
In Hinduism, "Tears of joy" symbolize profound emotional responses tied to moments of relief, happiness, and devotion. They manifest during reunions, celebrations, and the fulfillment of desires, reflecting deep emotional connections among divine figures and devotees.
From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Shastri)
(1) Expressions of emotional turmoil as Queen Kaushalya embraces her son, embodying love and concern.[2] (2) Emotionally expressive tears that result from happiness and relief.[3] (3) The emotional response from the inhabitants of the forest upon witnessing the reunion of the four princes.[4] (4) Represents the emotional response of Hanuman upon seeing Sita, showing a mix of happiness and sorrow.[5] (5) Emotional expressions from the assembly members moved by Bharata's righteous words.[6]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) Emotional expression in response to reunion or positive events following a period of conflict.[7] (2) Expresses the emotional response expected from the kings upon witnessing a reunion and reconciliation.[8] (3) The physical manifestation of happiness displayed by the pigeon as it reacts to emotional words.[9] (4) The expression of overwhelming happiness experienced by the Kuru king upon receiving good news about Arjuna.[10] (5) An expression of deep emotional relief and happiness experienced by Yudhishthira upon seeing his brothers' safe return.[11]
From: Harivamsha Purana
(1) Emotion expressed by Devaki upon witnessing Krishna's valor against Kamsa.[12] (2) An emotional response exhibited by Devaki, Revati, and Rukshmini upon seeing Usha, indicating happiness.[13] (3) Emotional expression during the festivities, often bringing forth both happiness and deeper connections among the characters.[14]
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) The emotional expression of happiness that Manki demonstrates when he falls at Vasishtha's feet in salutation.[15]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) The emotional response of Savitri upon hearing about the supreme nature of Mula Prakriti, indicating deep rapture and ecstasy.[16]
From: Vishnu Purana
(1) The emotional relief and happiness exhibited by Krishna鈥檚 companions upon his survival from the serpent's grasp.[17]
From: Markandeya Purana
(1) The emotional response of Karandhama when he embraces his grandson, demonstrating profound happiness at the reunion.[18]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Griffith)
(1) Emotional tears resulting from happiness.[19]
From: Tiruvaymoli (Thiruvaimozhi): English translation
(1) The blessed tears expressing happiness that arise from the recognition and vision of God.[20] (2) Emotional tears that swell in the daughter's eyes, reflecting her happiness.[21] (3) The emotional outpouring experienced by the Nayaki when contemplating the Lord's auspicious traits.[22] (4) An expression of deep emotional happiness that is often associated with spiritual experiences.[23]
From: Bhajana-Rahasya
(1) The emotional expression of Giri-Govardhana showcasing his ecstatic sentiments when witnessing Krishna's activities.[24] (2) An external symptom reflecting the inner melting of the heart during genuine devotional practice.[25] (3) The emotional response of family elders when they see the devotion of their descendants to Krishna.[26] (4) Cool tears that arise from the influence of jubilation and happiness, contrasting with warm tears that stem from anger or distress.[27]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) Tears of joy symbolize profound emotional responses, expressed by Devaraja Indra from his one thousand eyes due to his deep affection and gratitude.[28] (2) Emotional expression that flowed from Shri Brahma's eight eyelids while he engaged in worship.[29] (3) Emotional response exhibited by Shri Hanuman as he experienced bliss while engaging with the stories.[30]
From: Chaitanya Mangala
(1) Emotional expressions from Sanatana Pandita during the wedding, showcasing a mix of happiness and sorrow.[31] (2) A physical manifestation of intense emotions from both devotion and love expressed by devotees.[32] (3) The tears shed by Shaci and Jagannatha Mishra due to overwhelming love and emotion for their son.[33]
From: Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu
(1) A specific expression of emotional release that accompanies the experience of profound happiness.[34] (2) Brimming eyes and crying profusely as a manifestation of overwhelming happiness during the reunion.[35]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) Emotions expressed through tears that arise from happiness and a profound emotional experience.[36]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) Emotional expression of happiness signified by shedding tears.[37]
From: Prem Sagar (English translation)
(1) An expression of overwhelming happiness experienced by Nanda when he reunited with Balarama.[38]
From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)
(1) Emotional expressions that arise from feelings of overwhelming happiness, often occurring during reunions or moments of great relief.[39] (2) The emotional expression of King Kanakavarsha and Queen Madanasundari upon their reunion after a long separation.[40] (3) Emotional expressions of happiness often seen in moments of reunion and bliss.[41]
From: Naishadha-charita of Shriharsha
(1) Expressions of happiness during celebratory events, signifying a deep emotional connection among the parties involved.[42] (2) The tears shed by Damayanti that signify her emotional release and happiness.[43] (3) A symbol of relief and celebration from the bird after being freed by Nala, highlighting the contrast between grief and happiness.[44]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) Tears that may arise from happiness, which are not prohibited during Shraddha, unlike tears that stem from grief.[45]
Jain concept of 'Tears of joy'
In Jainism, "Tears of joy" symbolizes profound emotional responses, revealing deep happiness and purification from worldly distractions through reunions and connections, as demonstrated by various figures encountering loved ones or divine beings.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) The emotional response of Rukmini upon reuniting with her son Pradyumna, showcasing her relief and happiness at their reunion.[46] (2) Represents the overwhelming happiness of Naga as he interacts with his sons, showcasing the bond between them.[47] (3) Describes Sita鈥檚 emotional response upon reuniting with her sons, symbolizing her relief and happiness.[48] (4) Tears of joy are the emotional outpouring experienced by Mahendrasimha upon seeing Sanatkumara in the forest.[49] (5) Emotional expression intended to signify the purification from worldly distractions.[50]
From: Bhagavati-sutra (Viyaha-pannatti)
(1) The emotional response Devananda experienced during her encounter with Bhagavan Mahavira, indicating profound happiness.[51]
The concept of Tears of joy in local and regional sources
"Tears of joy" encapsulates various emotional responses characterized by pride, happiness, relief, and gratitude as individuals connect with loved ones, celebrate successes, or experience profound moments of reconnection, reflecting deep emotional bonds and personal relationships.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) An emotional reaction from the narrator's aunt upon reuniting with him, symbolizing deep affection.[52] (2) An emotional response from Asutosh's mother reflecting her pride and happiness for her son's supportive spirit.[53] (3) Represents profound emotional relief and happiness resulting from familial care and connection, showcasing the depth of personal relationships.[54] (4) The emotional response of Radha upon reuniting with Krishna, signifying profound love and relief.[55] (5) Emotional expression from the parents after their child鈥檚 successful surgery, indicating relief and gratitude.[56]
From: Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints
(1) The expression of emotion Ramdas experienced when he embraced Shri Rama and felt comfort.[57] (2) An emotional response that illustrates the depth of happiness and gratitude during a moment of reconnection.[58] (3) An emotional response from Keshav Swami reflecting gratitude and overwhelmed happiness.[59] (4) Emotional expression of happiness and gratitude shown by Keshav Swami upon hearing about Krishna's mercy.[60] (5) Expressions of deep emotional connection and happiness experienced by listeners during the kirtans performed by Bhanudas.[61]