Significance of Kala
Synonyms: Black, Dark, Onyx, Charcoal, Raven, Pitch, Sable, Obsidian
In German: Kala; In Finnish: Kala; In Spanish: Kala; In Swedish: Kala; In Malay: Kala; In French: Kala; In Dutch: Kal
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Kala'
In Buddhism, Kala encompasses multiple interpretations: a division of time, a term linked to misconceptions, a respectful Naga king, and a representation of spiritual existence across lifetimes, reflecting the complex nature of time and identity.
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) Another term for time, consisting of two syllables, but associated with wrong views and uncertainty.[1] (2) A name previously associated with Kien ti before his identity changed due to his dismemberment.[2]
From: Mahavastu (great story)
(1) The concept of time or aeons in the context of the expanse of spiritual existence across different lifetimes and Buddhas.[3] (2) The Naga king who invited the Exalted One to stay in his abode, showing respect and seeking blessings.[4]
From: Tattvasangraha [with commentary]
(1) A term for a particular division of time, reinforcing the idea of different temporal concepts.[5]
Hindu concept of 'Kala'
Kala in Hinduism encompasses divine powers, the cyclical nature of time, and mortality, representing both creation and destruction. It symbolizes the relentless influence of time on existence and is integral to cosmic and spiritual understanding.
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) Time, acknowledged as an eternal entity that plays a crucial role in the unfolding of the universe and existence.[6] (2) Representing time and space, a form of Maya that influences all beings, regardless of their knowledge or virtue.[7] (3) Time or the personification of time as a force; plays a significant role in creation and dissolution.[8] (4) The concept of time described as a powerful force that governs creation, preservation, and destruction within the universe.[9] (5) The concept of Time, often personified as a deity, which plays a role in creation and destruction.[10]
From: Laghu-yoga-vasistha
(1) Time, depicted as the ultimate force that brings about decay and destruction of all things.[11] (2) Time, personified in the text, representing the force that can cause destruction in the universe.[12] (3) Time, often personified as a deity responsible for the administration of the cosmic law.[13]
From: Vishnu Purana
(1) A time unit equal to thirty Kashthas.[14]
From: Garuda Purana
(1) Refers to Time, indicating its fundamental role and the cyclical nature of existence.[15]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) Kala refers to time, indicating the transient nature of existence and the inevitability of change and death.[16] (2) A part or a fragment of a plenary portion within the divine hierarchy, used to describe the relationship between Maha-Vishnu and the purushas.[17] (3) A part of a plenary portion, indicating Nityananda's relationship to Lord Ananta.[18]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) He is time.[19] (2) Indicates a full part of the divine essence, accounting for another kind of form.[20]
From: Srila Gurudeva (The Supreme Treasure)
(1) Refers to the individual attributes or manifestations of the Supreme (Krishna), distinguishing Him from other forms of divinity.[21]
From: Natyashastra (English)
(1) Measures of time or divisions in music performance that arise from grouping Matras.[22] (2) The divisions within music that help in structuring the rhythm of Dhruvas.[23] (3) Timing units in theatrical movement that determine the pace of Gait for characters.[24] (4) Various elements or aspects typically involved in the performance, such as musical or rhythmical features.[25]
From: Shat-cakra-nirupana (the six bodily centres)
(1) An aspect of energy or power, often related to specific forms of divine expression in the spiritual context.[26] (2) A form of Nada-Shakti signifying time or rhythm, involved in the continuous cycles of creation.[27] (3) A term that refers to Kundalini as the energy of consciousness, often associated with creativity and unity.[28] (4) Aspects or phases associated with celestial bodies, mentioned in the context of Ardha-candra.[29]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) A term meaning time or period, associated with the content in Gadadharapaddhati.[30] (2) Could refer to time or a specific context within which the offerings or rituals are performed.[31] (3) Refers to a particular context or commentary, noted in the passage, influencing the interpretation of periods of impurity.[32] (4) A unit of time made up of thirty 'Kashthas'.[33]
From: Sushruta Samhita, volume 3: Sharirasthana
(1) Seven supporting structures situated at the borders of the fundamental principles of the organism, comprising fibrous tissues encased in a membranous covering.[34]
From: Vakyapadiya of Bhartrihari
(1) A term referring to Time, characterized by its sequence and influence on the emergence of objects and effects.[35]
From: The Sarva-Darsana-Samgraha
(1) Conceptual elements that contribute to the experience of enjoyment and are part of the intense investigative structure of Shaiva-darshana.[37]
Jain concept of 'Kala'
In Jainism, Kala symbolizes time as a pivotal concept that dictates the sequence of events and changes in substances, while also embodying knowledge of temporal cycles and their implications in various fields, including arts and agriculture.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) Represents knowledge of time, providing insights into the future, past, and present, along with various arts and agriculture.[38] (2) A concept that denotes time or a specific period.[39] (3) Time, a fundamental aspect that governs the sequence and duration of events and states.[40]
From: Tattvartha Sutra (with commentary)
(1) The time taken to measure vyavahara palyopama, defined by the act of emptying the pit.[41] (2) Time, which serves as a causal agent in the modification and changes occurring in various substances.[42]
The concept of Kala in local and regional sources
Kala encompasses several meanings: a unit of time equated to nimeshas and nadikas, a Sanskrit term for shining arts, and a fair king of Nishadha known for his truth. It signifies time across various Sutras.
From: History of Science in South Asia
(1) This is a unit of time, and its relation to other units is given in the text, with 790 nimeshas equaling 1 kala, and 1 nadika equaling 10 kalas, which is also used in Sushruta and Parashara.[43] (2) This is a unit used to express the arc itself, alongside degree (bhaga) and arc seconds (vikala), according to the provided text.[44] (3) A kala is a unit of time, present in the Padarthadharmasangraha's enumeration, lacking a specific conversion ratio for determining its duration.[45]
From: Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints
(1) The king of Nishadha known for his truthfulness and expertise with horses.[46] (2) A fair and truthful king of Nishadha who faced suffering due to gambling incidents.[47]
From: Triveni Journal
(1) A Sanskrit term meaning 'to shine', used to denote arts that evoke aesthetic tastes.[48] (2) A Samskrit word that denotes time in general, occurring in various Sutras and understood as a measure or dimension.[49]