Significance of Age of puberty
The Age of puberty is a significant developmental stage recognized in various texts, reflecting a transition into adulthood. In Buddhism, it marks a time when young adults start understanding life's complexities. The Purana views it as the point when a girl is biologically ready for marriage, as seen in Savitri's example. Dharmashastra emphasizes menstruation as a sign of readiness, while Kavya denotes transformation in the protagonist. Kamashastra recognizes this age as one suitable for temporary marriage, particularly for courtesans’ daughters.
Synonyms: Maturation period, Adolescence, Teenage years, Youth, Maturation
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Age of puberty'
In Buddhism, the Age of puberty signifies a crucial developmental stage where young individuals gain insight into life's complexities, influencing decisions like Cunda's renunciation of worldly attachments and fostering a deeper spiritual understanding.
From: Apadana commentary (Atthakatha)
(1) The developmental stage where young adults begin to comprehend the complexities of life, prompting Cunda's decision to renounce worldly attachments.[1]
Hindu concept of 'Age of puberty'
The Age of puberty in Hinduism signifies a girl's biological readiness for marriage, marked by menstruation and physical maturity, as exemplified in various narratives, including Savitri's readiness and societal perceptions of women at this stage.
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) The stage of development indicating that a girl has become biologically capable of marriage.[2] (2) The stage of life when Savitri is considered ready to be married, highlighted by Narada's question to her father.[3]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) The point at which a girl begins menstruating and is considered suitable for marriage.[4] (2) The stage in a girl's life when she becomes capable of reproduction and the physical changes indicating maturity occur.[5]
From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)
(1) The developmental stage that indicates transition into adulthood, signifying the protagonist's transformation in the story.[6]
From: Kamashastra Discourse (Life in Ancient India)
(1) The stage at which the courtesan's daughter is deemed ready for temporary marriage.[7]