Significance of Boundary mountain
Boundary mountain refers to various chains of mountains that serve to delineate geographical limits and territories, as described in Purana texts. These mountains mark the borders of regions, including the notable mountains surrounding Meru, which define the geographical limits of the Varshas within the dvipa. The concept encompasses seven significant mountains that create a physical boundary, as well as particular mountains such as Jathara and Devakuta that encircle the Meru mountain, highlighting their role in demarcating areas of land.
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Boundary mountain'
In Hinduism, Boundary mountain symbolizes the seven sacred mountains that demarcate the Varsha regions within the dvipa, defining geographical limits, including those surrounding Meru, and significant territories reinforced by natural elements.
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) Metaphorical representation of stability and immovability amidst the chaos of life.[1] (2) The mountains that act as geographical limits of various regions, created during the formation of the world.[2] (3) The distant mountain ranges that appear to outline the expanse of land, akin to walls.[3]
From: Agni Purana
(1) Mountains such as Nila, Shveta, and Shringi that define the northern part of the geographical area.[4] (2) Mountains that define the boundaries of the regions, specifically Gomedha, Candra, Narada, Dundubhi, Somaka, Sumana, and Vaibhraja in this text.[5]
From: Garuda Purana
(1) The boundary mountains surrounding mount Meru include Himavan, Hemakuta, Nishadha to the south, and Nila, Shveta, Sringi to the north.[6] (2) The seven mountains forming the boundaries: Mahendra, Malaya, Sahya, Shuktiman, Riksha, Vindhya, and Paribhadra.[7]
From: Markandeya Purana
(1) The eight mountains that mark the boundaries of Meru and Jambudvipa.[8]
From: Vishnu Purana
(1) Mountains that define the outer limits of the regions surrounding Mount Meru, including Himavan, Hemakuta, Nishadha, Nila, Shveta, and Shringi.[9]
From: Harivamsha Purana
(1) Mountains that define the periphery of realms or territories, signifying limits in physical and metaphysical spaces.[10]
From: Bhagavata Purana
(1) The seven well-known mountains that form the borders of each Varsha within the dvipa.[11]