Significance of Nature of fire
The Nature of fire is a multifaceted concept explored across various philosophical and religious contexts. In Tibetan Buddhism, it signifies the innate quality enabling combustion, while in Vaishnavism, it represents a metaphor for purification and transformation. The Purana describes fire's divine qualities, emphasizing its role as a creator and destroyer. Vyakarana aligns fire's nature with illumination, Vedanta connects it to refined energies, and Vaisheshika highlights its self-luminosity. Additionally, Mahayana emphasizes fire's transient existence and its significance in rituals and astrology in Indian history.
Synonyms: Character of fire, Essence of fire, Properties of fire
In Dutch: Aard van vuur; In Finnish: Tulen luonne; In Spanish: Naturaleza del fuego; In German: Natur des Feuers; In Swedish: Eldens natur; In Malay: Sifat api; In French: Nature du feu
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Nature of fire'
The Nature of fire in Buddhism symbolizes the contemplation of desires and renunciation, emphasizing its intrinsic qualities, dependency on conditions, elemental significance alongside water, and its upward-moving essence, reflective of spiritual growth.
From: Shurangama Sutra (with commentary) (English)
(1) The inherent characteristic or essence of fire as one of the fundamental elements discussed in relation to water and their compatibility.[1] (2) A contemplation about fire that ties to desire and the challenges of genuine renunciation.[2] (3) The quality of fire which has no substance of its own and depends on various causes and conditions for its existence.[3]
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) The inherent quality of fire described as flame which rises upward ('urdhvajvala').[4]
From: Tattvasangraha [with commentary]
(1) The intrinsic quality of fire that enables it to burn and produce effects.[5]
Hindu concept of 'Nature of fire'
The "Nature of fire" in Hinduism encompasses its self-luminosity, transformative power, and role as a creator and destroyer, symbolizing purification and enlightenment, while highlighting qualities of heat and light that reflect divine essence.
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) Describes a quality of fire that does not result in burning, representing divine glory and light.[6]
From: Markandeya Purana
(1) The multiplicitous characteristics of fire including being a creator, destroyer, and the essence of transformation in the universe.[7]
From: Brahma Sutras (Ramanuja)
(1) The quality that characterizes elements that are more refined and energetic, exemplified by breath and speech.[8]
From: Padarthadharmasamgraha and Nyayakandali
(1) Describes the inherent properties of Fire, particularly its self-luminosity and the persistence of fluidity in certain materials like Gold.[9]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) A metaphor representing the purifying and transformative power that can remove emotional or spiritual coldness.[10]
From: Vakyapadiya of Bhartrihari
(1) This phrase signifies illumination as an essential characteristic, paralleling how consciousness is defined as the nature of the Inner Controller.[11]
The concept of Nature of fire in local and regional sources
The Nature of fire, or Agni, is essential in rituals as it mediates between gods and humans, symbolizing will. Additionally, it represents distinct elemental characteristics linked to astrology and divination practices.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) Fire (Agni) is seen as a crucial element in rituals, serving as a mediator between gods and men, and a symbol of will.[12]
From: History of Science in South Asia
(1) This is a title that refers to the characteristics of a specific element, and it is related to astrology or divination.[13]