Significance of Arthashlesha
Arthashlesha, as defined in Kavyashastra, encompasses two key concepts. Firstly, it describes a situation where one literal meaning applies to two distinct entities, creating an ornament of meaning. Secondly, it also refers to a narrative technique where a single term evokes multiple meanings at once. This dual application allows for rich and layered interpretations within literary contexts, highlighting the complexity and elegance of language.
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Arthashlesha'
Arthashlesha in Hinduism represents a literary and interpretative device, allowing a single term to evoke multiple meanings simultaneously or apply to different entities, enriching narratives and understanding.
From: Sahitya-kaumudi by Baladeva Vidyabhushana
(1) A type of literary expression that deals with meaning and its implications without specific context.[1] (2) A type of ornamentation in language where a single word can hold dual meanings or associations.[2] (3) A literary ornament where one literal meaning applies to two contexts; signifies clever wordplay and multiple interpretations.[3] (4) A double meaning based on the meaning of the words, as shown in the words 'gambhirya' (profundity) and 'sthairya' (stability).[4] (5) Artha-shlesha refers to a linguistic phenomenon where one sentence carries more than one meaning, allowing for a literal meaning to apply to two different subjects.[5]
From: Vakyapadiya of Bhartrihari
(1) A term that refers to the play of meanings or ambiguity in a sentence, closely related to the concept of ekashesha.[6]
From: Mudrarakshasa (literary study)
(1) A type of Shlesha that emphasizes the meanings of words rather than their sounds, distinguishing it from Shabdashlesha.[7]