Significance of Lavana
Lavana is a significant term across various disciplines in Indian philosophy and science. In Jainism, it encompasses a plant, a geographic feature, and an auspicious continent or ocean. Vaishnavism refers to it as the Sanskrit word for 'salt,' while Purana describes Lavana as the 'Salty Hell' for dishonoring the Vedas and includes associated mythical stories. In Vyakarana, it relates to natural salts and their medicinal benefits, while Dharmashastra highlights the moral implications of selling salt. Science acknowledges Lavana's role in Ayurveda and health impacts, particularly regarding hypertension.
Synonyms: Salt, Saline, Sea salt
In German: Lavana; In Finnish: Lavana; In Spanish: Lavana; In Swedish: Lavana; In Malay: Lavana; In Dutch: Wassen
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Lavana'
Lavana in Hinduism can be interpreted as both the Sanskrit term for salt and a location representing 'Salty Hell,' reflecting the consequences of unethical actions like selling salt or dishonoring the Vedas.
From: Garuda Purana
(1) Another location of hell discussed in the text.[1]
From: Laghu-yoga-vasistha
(1) The king in the story who experiences the power of illusion through the Siddha’s magical feats.[2]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) A Sanskrit word meaning 'salt' from which the word 'lona' is derived.[3]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) The term for salt, mentioned separately from other substances to indicate the greater blameworthiness of selling salt.[4]
Jain concept of 'Lavana'
In Jainism, Lavana is interpreted as a geographic feature linked to zone-mountains, a term possibly denoting 'Cardiospermum halicababum,' and an auspicious name for a continent or ocean in the Middle World.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) A noun to refer to perhaps 'Cardiospermum halicababum,' noted with references.[5] (2) A geographic feature that, along with Kaloda, is associated with the heights of the zone-mountains.[6] (3) Another example of an auspiciously named continent or ocean in the Middle World.[7]