Significance of Bodily beauty
Bodily beauty, as understood in Vaishnavism, encompasses various aspects of physical attractiveness. It highlights how such beauty can create ego and material attachment, distracting individuals from spiritual truths and connections with Krishna. It is also seen as potentially fostering pride and misinterpreted life goals. Historical perspectives and texts like Kavyashastra further emphasize this beauty as a stimulus for affection, illustrating its complexity and varied implications on one's spiritual journey and self-perception.
Synonyms: Physical attractiveness, Physical beauty, Aesthetic appeal, Corporeal beauty, Beauty of the body., Physical allure
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Bodily beauty'
Bodily beauty in Hinduism embodies physical attractiveness that influences social status and self-image, can evoke pride and distraction from spiritual pursuits, and often attributes aesthetic allure to Krishna, while potentially distorting true spiritual intention.
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) Physical attractiveness perceived as an asset, often misinterpreted as a significant life goal.[1] (2) Physical attractiveness that can lead to material pride and distract from spiritual intentions.[2] (3) Physical attractiveness that can create ego and pride, distracting individuals from seeking deeper spiritual truths.[3] (4) Physical attractiveness that can impact one's social status and self-image.[4] (5) Physical attractiveness that can lead to material attachment and a false sense of entitlement, distancing one from Krishna.[5]
From: Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu
(1) The physical appearance that captivates and attracts attention.[6]
From: Bhajana-Rahasya
(1) Refers to the physical attractiveness and aesthetic appeal often attributed to Krishna's form, described as unparalleled in the text.[7]
From: Sahitya-kaumudi by Baladeva Vidyabhushana
(1) The physical attractiveness that acts as a stimulus for affection, as mentioned among the 'uddipanas'.[8]
The concept of Bodily beauty in local and regional sources
Bodily beauty encompasses the physical attractiveness perceived differently by individuals. It highlights the subjective nature of beauty, influenced by personal preferences, cultural standards, and societal norms, thereby varying across different regions and contexts.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) The physical attractiveness of a person which is often subjectively perceived.[9]