Significance of Shadow
Synonyms: Shade, Darkness, Umbra, Gloom, Reflection, Penumbra, Veil, Obscurity, Outline, Cover, Screen, Protection.
In German: Schat; In Dutch: Schaduw; In Finnish: Varjo; In Spanish: Sombra; In Malay: Bayang-bayang; In Swedish: Skugga; In French: Ombre
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Shadow'
In Buddhism, "Shadow" symbolizes ignorance and lack of enlightenment, representing insubstantial experiences, the inescapable nature of consequences, misinterpretations, and a grim fate for those who neglect the pursuit of true wisdom.
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) The dark shapes produced by objects blocking light, used metaphorically to represent misinterpretations or obscured understanding.[1] (2) A representation of something that lacks substance, used to convey the idea that experiences can appear real but are insubstantial.[2] (3) A metaphor for ignorance and lack of enlightenment experienced by beings in realms without a Buddha.[3] (4) A representation of ignorance or suffering, indicating a grim fate for those who do not seek true wisdom.[4]
From: Vinaya (2): The Mahavagga
(1) The shadow being measured, likely as part of a ritual or calculation.[5]
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) A metaphor used to explain the inescapable nature of consequences that follow actions, similar to a shadow following an object.[6]
Hindu concept of 'Shadow'
In Hinduism, "Shadow" symbolizes various concepts, including divine presence, purity, metaphorical support in marriage, and the relationship between the body and true self, highlighting its multifaceted interpretations within cultural and spiritual contexts.
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) A metaphorical expression indicating the expectation for a wife to closely follow and support her husband in all facets of life.[7] (2) Referring to shaded areas; specific instructions advise against relieving oneself in shadowed places to maintain purity.[8]
From: Apastamba Dharma-sutra
(1) The dark shape produced by a body intercepting light, where specific rules apply regarding when one may discharge urine.[9]
From: Bharadvaja-srauta-sutra
(1) The time before dusk when actions related to the fire offerings are mandated to be performed.[10]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) Refers to '啶涏ぞ啶ぞ啶�' ('chayam'), the dark shape or outline produced by Krishna and Balarama as they engage with the surroundings.[11]
From: Vivekachudamani
(1) A metaphorical term indicating the indirect or secondary nature of the body in relation to the true self or consciousness.[12]
The concept of Shadow in local and regional sources
The keyphrase "Shadow" encompasses both the literal and metaphorical aspects in human experiences, symbolizing hidden fears, uncertainties, and divine presence, as explored in P. T. Narasimhachar's poetic reflections on life's deeper themes.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) Symbolic of the fears and hidden aspects of the characters' lives, particularly as Janaki contemplates her future.[13] (2) The unseen or neglected parts of life that loom over human experiences.[14] (3) A poem by P. T. Narasimhachar that uses the metaphor of a shadow to reflect on divine presence.[15] (4) Representations of darkness or uncertainty, possibly reflecting hidden issues or fears within civilization.[16] (5) A poem by P. T. Narasimhachar discussing the nature of shadows as reflective of deeper philosophical themes.[17]
From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda
(1) This is a metaphor for the death, evil, and degradation that accompanies life, good, and improvement in the objective world.[18] (2) The text says that this sort of religion is not of God; it is only the shadow, which is not a true representation of religious faith.[19]
From: History of Science in South Asia
(1) Shadows are the dark areas created when an object blocks light, with calculations involving their lengths and positions described in the text.[20]