365betÓéÀÖ

Significance of Thorn

The keyphrase "Thorn" in various contexts illustrates both physical and metaphorical meanings. In Buddhism, it symbolizes deep emotional pain and suffering. In South Asia, it is seen as a protective item during a prince's escape. The Purana references it as challenges faced when rectifying wrongs in a kingdom, while Dharmashastra associates thorns with grave issues needing resolution for good governance. Additionally, in Indian history and Kavyashastra, thorns represent emotional hardships linked to beauty, love, and life's challenges.1
gallery thumb

Synonyms: Spine, Barb

In Spanish: Espina; In Dutch: Doorn; In Finnish: Piikki; In German: Dorn

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

Buddhist concept of 'Thorn'

Buddhism Books

In Buddhism, "Thorn" or Salla symbolizes deep-seated pain or suffering, representing inner difficulties that are challenging to overcome, akin to a piercing object that remains embedded.

Significance in Buddhism (general):

From: Apadana commentary (Atthakatha)

(1) Salla; symbolizes something that pierces deeply and is difficult to remove, representing pain or suffering from within.[1]

Hindu concept of 'Thorn'

Hinduism Books

In Hinduism, "Thorn" symbolizes various challenges, including difficulties in tackling wrongdoing, threats from deceitful individuals, serious criminal issues for governance, and emotional pain in social or romantic situations, emphasizing the complexities of life and administration.

Significance in Dharmashastra (religious law):
Dharmashastra Books

From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi

(1) A metaphorical expression referring to the various menaces presented by different types of thieves or cheats.[2] (2) A figurative representation of the worst criminals or issues that need to be addressed for a healthy administration of the kingdom.[3]

Dharmashastra contains the instructions (shastra) regarding religious conduct of livelihood (dharma), ceremonies, jurisprudence (study of law) and more. It is categorized as smriti, an important and authoritative selection of books dealing with the Hindu lifestyle.

Significance in Purana and Itihasa (epic history):
Purana Books

From: Mahabharata (English)

(1) Challenges or difficulties that can arise when addressing wrongdoing within the kingdom.[4]

The Purana refers to Sanskrit literature preserving ancient India’s vast cultural history, including historical legends, religious ceremonies, various arts and sciences. The eighteen mahapuranas total over 400,000 shlokas (metrical couplets) and date to at least several centuries BCE.

The concept of Thorn in local and regional sources

History Books

Thorn symbolizes emotional defenses, challenges, and the duality of beauty and suffering in love. It serves as a protective barrier against adversities and represents the hardships accompanying growth throughout life.

Significance in India history and geography:

From: Triveni Journal

(1) Symbolic representations of challenges and difficulties encountered along the life path.[5] (2) Symbolizes pain or hardship that may accompany beauty and growth.[6] (3) Representing the speaker's emotional defenses and the pain associated with love; they symbolize both beauty and suffering.[7]

Significance in South Asia:
South Asia Books

From: Village Folk-tales of Ceylon (Sri Lanka), vol. 1-3

(1) An item used to create a defensive barrier against the Rakshasi during the Prince's escape.[8]

Plural form: Thorns.