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Significance of Emaciation

Emaciation, as understood in various traditions, refers to a state of extreme thinness or weakness due to significant weight loss, often linked to health issues. In Tibetan Buddhism, it denotes a marker of change. Ayurveda views it as a condition suitable for therapeutic interventions, while also being a symptom of Prameha. Rasashastra associates it with excessive weight loss from health concerns. In scientific contexts, emaciation is linked to malnutrition from factors such as food adulteration, highlighting its multifaceted nature.

Synonyms: Wasting, Thinness, Malnourishment, Starvation, Atrophy, Gauntness

In Dutch: Vermagering; In Finnish: Laihtuminen; In Spanish: Adelgazamiento; In German: Abmagerung

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

Buddhist concept of 'Emaciation'

Buddhism Books

Emaciation in Buddhism signifies an extreme thinness or weakness, symbolizing a significant transformation rather than a direct indicator of time, emphasizing the spiritual journey and the effects of mindfulness and detachment from physical form.

Significance in Tibetan Buddhism (Vajrayana or tantric Buddhism):
Tibetan Buddhism Books

From: Tattvasangraha [with commentary]

(1) A state of being extremely thin or weak, which serves as another marker of change over time but is not a direct measure of Time.[1]

Tibetan Buddhism includes schools such as Nyingma, Kadampa, Kagyu and Gelug. Their primary canon of literature is divided in two broad categories: The Kangyur, which consists of Buddha’s words, and the Tengyur, which includes commentaries from various sources. Esotericism and tantra techniques (vajrayana) are collected indepently.

Hindu concept of 'Emaciation'

Hinduism Books

Emaciation in Hinduism signifies significant weight loss and poor body condition, often linked to health issues. It suggests the need for specific therapies and is associated with extreme thinness, indicating the necessity for restorative treatments.

Significance in Ayurveda (science of life):
Ayurveda Books

From: Charaka Samhita (English translation)

(1) A state of being wasted or extremely thin, indicating suitability for roborant therapy.[2] (2) A condition characterized by extreme weight loss and weakness often requiring specific therapeutic approaches like impletion.[3] (3) A state of extreme thinness and weakness resulting from loss of body mass, often seen in consumption cases.[4]

From: Sushruta Samhita, volume 4: Cikitsasthana

(1) A symptom of the first type of Prameha characterized by significant weight loss and deterioration of body condition.[5]

Ayurveda is a branch of Indian science dealing with medicine, herbalism, taxology, anatomy, surgery, alchemy and related topics. Traditional practice of Ayurveda in ancient India dates back to at least the first millenium BC. Literature is commonly written in Sanskrit using various poetic metres.

Significance in Rasashastra (chemistry and alchemy):
Rasashastra Books

From: Rasa Jala Nidhi, vol 5: Treatment of various afflictions

(1) Refers to excessive weight loss that can accompany various health issues including shula.[6]

Rasashastra is an important branch of Ayurveda, specialising in chemical interactions with herbs, metals and minerals. Some texts combine yogic and tantric practices with various alchemical operations. The ultimate goal of Rasashastra is not only to preserve and prolong life, but also to bestow wealth upon humankind.