Significance of Pulaka
Pulaka is a multifaceted term with various meanings across different philosophies. In Jainism, it signifies the first division of nirgranthas, highlighting a powerful character with spiritual shortcomings and a slothful saint displaying inconsistency in vows. In Vaishnavism, it describes the intense reactions such as goosebumps during emotional experiences. The Purana context relates Pulaka to the notions of poor quality grain, while in Vyakarana, it refers to boiled rice, illustrated through culinary proverbs.
In German: Pulaka; In Finnish: Pulaka; In Spanish: Pula; In Dutch: Pruim
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Pulaka'
In Hinduism, Pulaka can be understood as boiled rice symbolizing nourishment, a response to intense emotions shown through horripilation, and a reference to inferior grain or rice-water, each reflecting deeper philosophical meanings in life and spirituality.
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) Horripilating, the sudden goosebumps that may appear as a reaction to intense emotions or spiritual experiences.[1]
Jain concept of 'Pulaka'
In Jainism, Pulaka signifies an early group of nirgranthas, representing individuals with notable power but lacking spiritual maturity, akin to a saint with a lazy mindset towards vows, symbolized by shriveled grain.
From: Tattvartha Sutra (with commentary)
(1) The saint whose mind is slothful regarding the practice of the secondary vows and who sometimes lapses in perfect observance of primary vows, resembling blighted or shriveled grain.[2]
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) The first division of nirgranthas, indicating a character with significant power despite spiritual underdevelopment.[3]