Significance of Bow

In Jainism, the term "Bow" denotes an attribute of Acyuta, symbolizing readiness to defend and representing focus and intent. In the context of Dharmashastra, "Bow," also known as 'Karmuka,' is associated with purification practices following the act of killing an inconstant woman. This reflects the bow's dual significance in spiritual and moral contexts within these philosophical frameworks.1

Synonyms: Knot, Tie, Bowstring

In Dutch: Boog

In Finnish: Keula

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

Hindu concept of 'Bow'

Hinduism Books

In Hinduism, the Bow, or 'Karmuka,' symbolizes a ritual object used for purification after killing an unfaithful woman, highlighting its significance in restorative practices following morally transgressive actions.

Significance of Bow in Vaishnavism (Vaishava dharma):

Vaishnavism Books

From: Garga Samhita (English)

(1) A weapon that Gada puts down, indicating a shift in his approach to fighting.^[1] (2) Refers to Lord Vishnu's bow, a symbolic weapon representing strength and divine support.^[2] (3) A weapon used by Kamsa, specifically mentioned as an object of interest in the text.^[3] (4) Refers to the weapon mentioned in the text, symbolizing strength and skill, likened to that of Indra.^[4] (5) The object or symbol at the location where Krishna goes, possibly representing a challenge or contest.^[5]

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 Bow in Dharmashastra (religious law):

Dharmashastra Books

From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi

(1) Also referred to as 'Karmuka,' it is one of the items that should be given for purification after the act of killing an inconstant woman.^[6]

From: Asvalayana-grihya-sutra

(1) A weapon that the Purohita is responsible for equipping the king with during the preparation for battle.^[7]

Dharmashastra contains the instructions (shastra) regarding religious conduct of livelihood (dharma), ceremonies, jurisprudence (study of law) and more. It is categorized as smriti, an important and authoritative selection of books dealing with the Hindu lifestyle.

Significance of Bow in Purana and Itihasa (epic history):

Purana Books

From: Ramayana of Valmiki

(1) A divine and legendary bow, worshipped by kings, that represents strength and valor.^[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 Bow in Vyakarana (Sanskrit grammar):

Vyakarana Books

From: Vakyapadiya of Bhartrihari

(1) The implement that serves both as the starting point and the instrument in the act of shooting an arrow.^[9]

Vyakarana refers to Sanskrit grammar and represents one of the six additional sciences (vedanga) to be studied along with the Vedas. Vyakarana concerns itself with the rules of Sanskrit grammar and linguistic analysis in order to establish the correct context of words and sentences.

Significance of Bow in Natyashastra (theatrics and dramaturgy):

Natyashastra Books

From: Dasarupaka (critical study)

(1) Himalaya's role representing strength and stability in the plan to defeat the Tripuras.^[10]

Natyashastra refers to both the ancient Indian tradition (shastra) of performing arts, (natya—theatrics, drama, dance, music), as well as the name of a Sanskrit work dealing with these subjects. It also teaches the rules for composing Dramatic plays (nataka), construction and performance of Theater, and Poetic works (kavya).

Jain concept of 'Bow'

Jainism Books

In Jainism, Bow symbolizes an attribute of Acyuta, representing readiness to defend and serving as a symbolic representation of focus and intent in one's spiritual practice and commitment.

Significance of Bow in Jainism (general):

From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra

(1) An attribute of Acyuta, possibly signifying readiness to defend or a symbolic representation of focus and intent.^[11]

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.

Last Updated: 29 October, 2024