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Significance of Firmament

In Hinduism, the firmament is understood as the vast expanse of the sky or heavens. It represents both a beautiful celestial realm and a space devoid of suffering for beings, characterized by the presence of planets, stars, and divine entities. This expansive firmament includes concepts from the Purana, such as celestial spheres, spiritual experiences, and the locations of deities like Indra and Durga. Historical interpretations also align, viewing the firmament as a tangible and beautiful structure that signifies the interplay between the heavens and earthly existence.1
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Synonyms: Sky, Atmosphere, Celestial sphere, Vault of heaven, Azure

In Dutch: Firmament; In German: Firmament; In Finnish: Taivaankansi; In Spanish: Firmamento

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

Buddhist concept of 'Firmament'

Buddhism Books

In Buddhism, "Firmament" represents the expansive sky or heavens, symbolizing a lofty realm above that encompasses spiritual elevation and enlightenment, akin to a majestic belvedere offering a perspective of transcendence.

Significance in Mahayana (major branch of Buddhism):
Mahayana Books

From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra

(1) The vast sky or heavens where the great belvedere is said to be high above.[1]

Mahayana is a major branch of Buddhism focusing on the path of a Bodhisattva (spiritual aspirants/ enlightened beings). Extant literature is vast and primarely composed in the Sanskrit language. There are many sutras of which some of the earliest are the various Prajnaparamita sutras.

Hindu concept of 'Firmament'

Hinduism Books

In Hinduism, the Firmament symbolizes the sky or celestial realm, encompassing divine oversight, spiritual journeys, and the vast expanse connecting various celestial beings, planets, and realms, ultimately representing a space for liberation and divine presence.

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

From: Mahabharata (English)

(1) The sky or heavens, where the goddess Durga is represented as appearing to Arjuna.[2] (2) The vast sky or heavens filled by Janarddana's presence, denoting his omnipresence.[3] (3) The sky or heavens where the she-pigeon sees her husband after his death, symbolizing the afterlife or spiritual realm.[4] (4) The vast expanse of sky that King Yayati occupied after being hurled down but not reaching the Earth.[5] (5) The heavens or sky; Narada soared into the firmament, symbolizing a transcendental journey or achievement.[6]

From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4

(1) The sky or heavens perceived as an extensive and overarching expanse.[7] (2) The heavens or the sky, populated by revolving planets and stars, likened to soldiers in a battlefield.[8] (3) The vast sky or celestial sphere where spiritual experiences occur.[9]

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.

Significance in Hinduism (general):

From: Satapatha-brahmana

(1) Shattrimsha characterizes the year as the firmament, representing the sky and a space free from suffering for beings.[10] (2) The heavens or sky that is observed by the rising sun.[11]

The concept of Firmament in local and regional sources

History Books

Firmament signifies the heavens or sky perceived as a beautiful, tangible structure, highlighting its aesthetic and significant qualities as described by regional sources in the text.

Significance in India history and geography:

From: Triveni Journal

(1) The heavens or sky, especially when viewed as a tangible structure of significant beauty.[12]