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Significance of Stick

The term "Stick" carries various meanings in different contexts. In Tibetan Buddhism, it serves as an analogy illustrating that an entity differentiating another cannot be identical to that which it differentiates. In Vaishnavism, it denotes long, thin objects, often made of wood, representing strength, guidance, and playful attributes of deities like Krishna. Additionally, it symbolizes support and criticism in devotional contexts. In Dharmashastra, it refers to purifying objects used by the Shudra after rites.1
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Synonyms: Rod, Pole, Staff, Baton, Branch, Wand, Cane

In Spanish: Palo; In Finnish: Tikku; In Dutch: Stok

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Buddhist concept of 'Stick'

Buddhism Books

In Buddhism, "Stick" serves as an analogy demonstrating that an entity distinguishing another cannot be the same as that which it differentiates, emphasizing the concept of non-identity and the importance of perspective in understanding existence.

Significance in Tibetan Buddhism (Vajrayana or tantric Buddhism):
Tibetan Buddhism Books

From: Tattvasangraha [with commentary]

(1) An analogy used to illustrate the argument that an entity which differentiates another cannot be identical to that which it differentiates.[1]

Tibetan Buddhism includes schools such as Nyingma, Kadampa, Kagyu and Gelug. Their primary canon of literature is divided in two broad categories: The Kangyur, which consists of Buddha’s words, and the Tengyur, which includes commentaries from various sources. Esotericism and tantra techniques (vajrayana) are collected indepently.

Hindu concept of 'Stick'

Hinduism Books

In Hinduism, the stick symbolizes strength, support, and stability. It serves multiple roles: a tool for purification, a playful object in games, and a representation of Krishna's protective nature, embodying both guidance and the complexities of devotion.

Significance in Vaishnavism (Vaishava dharma):
Vaishnavism Books

From: Chaitanya Bhagavata

(1) Represents taking something more substantial or strong; symbolizes a more reliable or stable choice.[2] (2) An object that could symbolize guidance or support, and is included in the figurative description of adornments.[3] (3) Long, thin pieces of wood or other material, utilized for various purposes including decoration.[4] (4) In the context of this text, it symbolizes the criticism or harm that the speaker feels from those who do not value devotional service.[5] (5) An object that was taken by He to break the containers.[6]

From: Garga Samhita (English)

(1) An object that is likely used in their games or pastimes, adding to the playful nature described in the text.[7] (2) Refers to the additional items carried by the gopa men, which may have practical or symbolic significance.[8] (3) The stick, called 'vetra', mentioned in the text, is likely an attribute associated with Krishna, symbolizing his playful and protective nature.[9] (4) Another item given by Radha to Lord Hari, potentially symbolizing support and strength.[10]

Vaishnava or vaishnavism (vaishnavism) represents a tradition of Hinduism worshipping Vishnu as the supreme Lord. Similar to the Shaktism and Shaivism traditions, Vaishnavism also developed as an individual movement, famous for its exposition of the dashavatara (‘ten avatars of Vishnu�).

Significance in Dharmashastra (religious law):
Dharmashastra Books

From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi

(1) The object the Shudra touches to purify himself after completing the necessary rites.[11]

Dharmashastra contains the instructions (shastra) regarding religious conduct of livelihood (dharma), ceremonies, jurisprudence (study of law) and more. It is categorized as smriti, an important and authoritative selection of books dealing with the Hindu lifestyle.

Plural form: Sticks.