Significance of Vishuvat
Vishuvat, in Hinduism, signifies a pivotal moment in the yearly cycle, connecting preceding and following months. It is acknowledged in Vedic traditions with specific sacrificial practices. Symbolically, Vishuvat represents the head, emphasizing perception and control, central to human existence. Additionally, it refers to the nose and correlates with the backward parts of the eye in Svarasaman. Overall, Vishuvat serves as a reference point for sacrifices, embodying the concepts of balance and equilibrium in Hindu beliefs.
Synonyms: Equinox, Celestial equator
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Vishuvat'
Vishuvat in Hinduism symbolizes vital aspects: it represents the head for perception, marks a significant Vedic point in the year, symbolizes the body trunk linking cycles, and embodies balance in sacrificial traditions, also relating to the senses.
From: Satapatha-brahmana
(1) A stages of a ritual represented as an island, indicating a specific ceremonial foothold.[1] (2) A term linked to the sun, suggesting a significant position of the sun within the calendrical and ritual framework.[2] (3) Represents the balance point or central aspect of the spiritual body related to the breath.[3] (4) Represents the head, crucial for perception and control, linking to the central theme of human life and function.[4] (5) Considered the body trunk of the year, representing a critical point in the cycle that joins both preceding and following months.[5]
The concept of Vishuvat in local and regional sources
Vishuvat refers to the equinoctial point, marking the vernal equinox, when daytime and nighttime are equal. It serves as a key reference for celestial measurements and is celebrated in various Indian cultures.
From: History of Science in South Asia
(1) This term denotes the equinoctial point or celestial pole, which is used to define a circle.[6] (2) The term vishuvat refers to the equinoctial point, used as a reference point for celestial measurements, as explained in the text.[7] (3) This is the day when the duration of daytime and nighttime are equal, and the text provides synonyms of the year, like samvatsara, abda, hayana, sharat, and sama.[8] (4) This is the mid-point of the year and denotes the 'vernal equinox' in many Indian languages, celebrated today as such in many parts of India.[9]