Significance of Bow

The keyphrase "Bow" encompasses various interpretations across different traditions. In Jainism, it signifies an attribute of readiness and focus. In Vaishnavism, it represents a weapon of power associated with deities like Lord Krishna and is central to themes of strength and defense. The Purana highlights its legendary status, showcasing its use by figures such as Rama and Lakshman in battles, symbolizing valor. Other contexts, like Natyashastra and Dharmashastra, also illustrate its significance as an instrument of strength and preparedness in combat scenarios.1
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Synonyms: Knot, Tie, Bowstring, Arc

In Dutch: Boog; In Finnish: Keula; In Spanish: Arco; In German: Bogen

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 symbolizes strength, valor, and divine support. It is associated with significant figures like Rama and Krishna, representing readiness for battle and mastery in archery, essential for overcoming challenges.

Significance 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 in Purana and Itihasa (epic history):
Purana Books

From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Griffith)

(1) The king sought the wondrous science of this weapon from Mahadeva, desiring it to be complete in every part, with secret spell and mystic art.[6] (2) The bow is given to Rama.[7] (3) Bow was used by Lakshman, and the mighty tamers of the foe also carried bows as they traversed the rugged ground.[8] (4) The bow is a weapon that Rama grasps, demonstrating his strength and skill, with which he shoots arrows with incredible power and accuracy.[9] (5) The bow is a weapon, adorned with gold, used by Rama in the battle against the giants, with which he shot arrows.[10]

From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Shastri)

(1) A divine and legendary bow, worshipped by kings, that represents strength and valor.[11]

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 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.[12]

From: Asvalayana-grihya-sutra

(1) A weapon that the Purohita is responsible for equipping the king with during the preparation for battle.[13]

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 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.[14]

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.

Jain concept of 'Bow'

Jainism Books

In Jainism, "Bow" symbolizes an attribute of Acyuta, representing readiness to defend, alongside focus and intent. It embodies the concept of preparedness and determination in spiritual pursuits.

Significance 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.[15]

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.