Significance of Fragrant water
Fragrant water has significant cultural and ritualistic meanings across various Indian traditions. In Jainism, it symbolizes purity and is used in various ceremonial contexts, including rituals to honor sacred figures. Vaishnavism interprets it as a metaphor for the importance of true essence, while also recognizing its use in ceremonies. In the Purana, it represents purity, especially in connection to divine worship. The concept spans numerous contexts, illustrating its enduring importance in rituals focused on purification and reverence across religious teachings.
Synonyms: Scented water, Perfumed water
In Dutch: Geurig water; In Finnish: Tuoksuva vesi; In Spanish: Agua fragante; In German: Duftendes Wasser
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Fragrant water'
Fragrant water in Hinduism signifies water infused with pleasant scents for rituals, purification, and worship, symbolizing purity and auspiciousness, and enhancing spiritual experiences, while also metaphorically representing true essence beyond mere appearances.
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) Water that is infused with pleasant scents, used in rituals or for reverence, particularly in connection with worship.[1]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) The water in the ponds of Vrindavana that is scented by the flowers such as water lilies and lotuses.[2]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) Water that has a pleasing smell, described as 'gandha-jalambaraih' in the text.[3]
From: Bhajana-Rahasya
(1) A metaphor used to denote that even something that seems pleasant should be avoided if it lacks true essence.[4]
From: Brihat Samhita
(1) Water infused with aromatic substances, used for washing or cleansing with a focus on pleasant scents.[5] (2) Type of water used to bathe the image, mixed with gold and gems.[6]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Shastri)
(1) The pure, fresh, and clear water from Lake Pampa, which is offered to Rama on a lotus leaf by Lakshmana.[7] (2) Water used in the coronation ceremony, sanctified and imbued with blessings, representing purity and auspiciousness.[8]
From: Sankhayana-grihya-sutra
(1) Water that has been infused with herbs and fruits, used for the ceremonial washing of the bride, symbolizing purification and beauty.[9]
From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)
(1) The blessed water of Pampa lake, suggesting purity and sanctity associated with its origin from the trees.[10]
Jain concept of 'Fragrant water'
Fragrant water in Jainism symbolizes purity and reverence, representing divine cleanliness and the essence of offerings in rituals. It is used ceremonially for bathing statues, deities, and during significant rituals, embodying devotion and sanctity.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) Pure water, often enhanced with scents, used for ceremonial bathing of statues.[11] (2) Water used for bathing the Arhat and his mother during the rituals.[12] (3) Water that the gods rained down to settle the dust, signifying cleanliness and purification.[13] (4) The special water used by Shakra to bathe the Master, signifying purity and devotion.[14] (5) Water imbued with the essence of various flowers, used in rituals by the Dikkumaris to honor the Tirthakrit, symbolizing purity and sanctity.[15]