Significance of Armlet

In Vaishnavism, the keyphrase "Armlet" pertains to decorative bracelet-like ornaments worn by deities such as Goddess Sarasvati and Lord Krishna, enhancing their beauty and regal appearance. Additionally, in Purana texts, "Armlet" is synonymous with Keyura, an ornament specifically designed for the upper arm, signifying its importance in the adornment of divine figures. Both usages highlight the cultural and religious significance of armlets in Hindu iconography.

Synonyms: Bracelet, Bangle, Arm band

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

Hindu concept of 'Armlet'

Hinduism Books

In Hinduism, "Armlet" symbolizes beauty and divine grace, representing regal jewelry worn by Lord Krishna, adornments highlighting Goddess Sarasvati, and keyura, an upper arm ornament linked to deities in sacred texts.

Significance of Armlets in Vaishnavism (Vaishava dharma):

Vaishnavism Books

From: Garga Samhita (English)

(1) Jewelry worn on the arms, enhancing the overall decorative aspect of the attire.^[1] (2) Bhuja-kankana, referring to decorative ornaments worn on the arms.^[2] (3) Ornamental bands worn around the arms, often made of decorative materials.^[3] (4) Bracelet-like ornaments worn on the arms, contributing to the beauty of Goddess Sarasvati.^[4] (5) Jewelry worn around the arms by Lord Krishna, enhancing his regal appearance.^[5]

From: Chaitanya Bhagavata

(1) Decorative ornaments worn around the arms, typically made of metal or other materials.^[6]

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 of Armlets in Purana and Itihasa (epic history):

Purana Books

From: Mahabharata (English)

(1) Decorative jewelry on the arms of the demons, highlighting their grandeur even in death.^[7]

From: Markandeya Purana (Study)

(1) Keyura, an ornament worn on the upper arm mentioned in various texts and attributed to deities.^[8]

The Purana refers to Sanskrit literature preserving ancient India’s vast cultural history, including historical legends, religious ceremonies, various arts and sciences. The eighteen mahapuranas total over 400,000 shlokas (metrical couplets) and date to at least several centuries BCE.

Significance of Armlets in Shaivism (Shaiva philosophy):

Shaivism Books

From: Shaiva Upanishads (A Critical Study)

(1) Sixteen Rudraksha beads worn on each of the two forearms.^[9]

Shaiva or Shaivism (shaivism) represents a tradition of Hinduism worshiping Shiva as the supreme being. Closely related to Shaktism, Shaiva literature includes a range of scriptures, including Tantras, while the root of this tradition may be traced back to the ancient Vedas.

Jain concept of 'Armlet'

Jainism Books

In Jainism, the Armlet, known as keura, signifies ornamental arm decorations, reflecting cultural practices and possibly representing spiritual beliefs or status within the community.

Significance of Armlets in Jainism (general):

From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra

(1) Identified as keura, they are ornamental pieces worn around the arms.^[10]

Jainism is an Indian religion of Dharma whose doctrine revolves around harmlessness (ahimsa) towards every living being. The two major branches (Digambara and Svetambara) of Jainism stimulate self-control (or, shramana, ‘self-reliance’) and spiritual development through a path of peace for the soul to progess to the ultimate goal.

Plural form: Armlets.

Last Updated: 23 October, 2024