Significance of Utsarga
Utsarga holds different meanings across various religious traditions. In Hinduism, it involves acts of reverence to alleviate distress before sacrifices. Jainism views Utsarga as the act of excretion, criticized if done carelessly. Tibetan Buddhism refers to Utsarga as a principle related to validity in the texts. In Dharmashastra, it denotes the concluding ceremony of annual studies, marking the end of specific disciplines and Vedic studies, and is linked with the Upakarman, indicating a significant ritual phase.
Synonyms: Sacrifice, Dedication, Offering
In German: Utsarga; In Finnish: Utsarga; In Spanish: Utsarga; In Dutch: Uitzondering
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Utsarga'
Utsarga in Buddhism signifies a fundamental principle that relates to the overarching qualities or rules that establish validity within Buddhist teachings and practices, guiding practitioners in their understanding and application of Buddhist concepts.
From: Tattvasangraha [with commentary]
(1) A general principle mentioned in the text, which may pertain to the overarching qualities or rules governing validity.[1]
Hindu concept of 'Utsarga'
Utsarga in Hinduism signifies a ceremonial practice linked to the Upakarman, marking the conclusion of educational disciplines and rituals, while also embodying acts of reverence intended to alleviate distress before sacrifices.
From: Asvalayana-grihya-sutra
(1) A ceremony performed at the end of the term of Vedic study.[2]
From: Sankhayana-grihya-sutra
(1) A related rite that coincides with the Upakarman, possibly indicating another phase or event in the ritual calendar.[3]
From: Paraskara-grihya-sutra
(1) The concluding ceremony of the annual course of study, marking the end of certain disciplines and practices.[4]
From: Hiranyakesi-grihya-sutra
(1) The conclusion ritual of the term of study, celebrated during the fortnight before the Taishi full moon.[5]
From: Satapatha-brahmana
(1) Acts of reverence performed to drive out the distress and evil of the victims before their sacrifice.[6]
Jain concept of 'Utsarga'
Utsarga in Jainism signifies the act of excreting, particularly when conducted carelessly without prior inspection, reflecting the religion's emphasis on mindfulness and respect for the environment.
From: Tattvartha Sutra (with commentary)
(1) The act of excreting in a location, viewed critically when it is done without prior inspection.[7]