Significance of Madraka
Madraka has different interpretations across various texts. In Jainism, it refers to a geographic area. In the Purana, Madraka denotes a group of people viewed unfavorably due to their perceived lack of virtue and immoral conduct. The Natyashastra describes Madraka as a specific feature in poetic structure, consisting of twenty-two syllables, with designated syllables assigned as heavy. Thus, the term Madraka encompasses both geographical and social connotations, as well as a structural aspect in literature.
In Dutch: Madraka; In German: Madraka; In Finnish: Madraka; In Spanish: Madraca
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Madraka'
Madraka, in Buddhism, is interpreted as a kingdom associated with Queen Sudarshana, emphasizing its historical and cultural significance within Buddhist narratives and the connections it establishes with royal figures.
From: Mahavastu (great story)
(1) A kingdom from which the queen Sudarshana hails.[1]
Hindu concept of 'Madraka'
In Hinduism, Madraka is interpreted as a metric with specific syllable patterns, and also denotes a group viewed negatively due to their perceived lack of virtue, characterized by wickedness, untruthfulness, and immoral behavior.
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) A group referenced negatively, characterized by wickedness, untruthfulness, and immoral behavior.[2] (2) A group of people perceived negatively for their lack of virtue and condemned behaviors.[3]
From: Natyashastra (English)
(1) Madraka features twenty-two syllables with the first, fourth, sixth, tenth, twelfth, sixteenth, eighteenth, and last being heavy.[4]
Jain concept of 'Madraka'
In Jainism, Madraka is interpreted as a geographic area mentioned in sacred texts, which likely holds significance in the context of spiritual teachings and practices associated with Jain beliefs and traditions.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) A geographic area included in the text.[5]