Significance of Bright half
In Jainism, Bright half refers to the waxing phase of the moon, a significant period marked by various spiritual events and observances. Specifically, this lunar phase indicates times of emancipation, the culmination of fasting, and birth milestones. Both Jainism and other philosophical traditions, such as Purana and Dharmashastra, regard this period as auspicious for rituals and worship due to the increasing moonlight. It symbolizes a time of purity, spiritual significance, and positive outcomes in religious practices.
In Dutch: Heldere helft; In Finnish: Kirkas puolisko; In Spanish: Mitad brillante; In German: Helle Hälfte; In Portugese: Metade brilhante; In Italian: Metà luminosa; In Polish: Jasna połowa
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Bright half'
In Buddhism, the "Bright half" symbolizes enlightenment and clarity, contrasting the "dark half." It highlights significant events such as Arittha's teachings and the reception of the Bodhi-tree during the auspicious month of Assayuja.
From: Visuddhimagga (the pah of purification)
(1) The bright half of the moon is the other division, alongside the dark half, used to examine the three characteristics in relation to the moon's cycle.[1]
From: Mahavamsa
(1) The bright half of the month Assayuja is mentioned as a significant time when Arittha set forth, and when the great Bodhi-tree was received.[2]
Hindu concept of 'Bright half'
In Hinduism, the Bright half signifies the waxing phase of the lunar month, marked by increased moonlight, auspicious for rituals, spiritual activities, and significant religious observances, symbolizing purity and higher consciousness.
From: Nilamata Purana
(1) The festival in this half of the month of Phalguna should be celebrated by observing fast and placing earthen lamps.[3] (2) This term refers to the lunar phase of the month in which specific rituals and worship practices are performed.[4]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) The portion of the lunar month during which the virtuous and wonderful events happened, specifying the temporal context of the narrative.[5]
From: Gautama Dharmasutra
(1) During this time, one must increase portion by one mouthful daily.[6]
From: Vasistha Dharmasutra
(1) The period of the lunar month during which the study of the Vedas may continue after the expiration of the initial Veda-study period.[7]
From: Bharadvaja-srauta-sutra
(1) The opposing period in the lunar calendar where different rituals and prayers are observed compared to the dark half.[8]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) Refers to the lunar phase during which the moon is waxing, considered one of the possible starting points for observing Yati-Candrayana.[9] (2) The first half of the lunar month during which the Yavamadhyama penance is initiated.[10]
From: Brihat Samhita
(1) The bright half of the lunar month Karttika or Ashvina is specified as the time when the purificatory ceremony of lustration should be performed.[11] (2) The lunar phase following the new moon when the visibility of the moon increases, which influences the timing of cloud conception.[12]
From: Prashna Upanishad (Madhva commentary)
(1) Referring to the lunar phase symbolizing Prana, associated with spirit and higher consciousness.[13]
Jain concept of 'Bright half'
In Jainism, "Bright half" signifies the waxing moon phase associated with pivotal events, including the Lord's emancipation and Purushasimha's birth, marking significant spiritual milestones and the culmination of fasting efforts.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) The bright half refers to the period of the lunar month during which the conception of the son in Queen Vijaya's womb took place, specifically on the thirteenth day.[14] (2) On the third day of the "bright half" of Cakra, the moon being in Krittika, the Lord’s omniscience appeared, indicating an auspicious time for enlightenment.[15] (3) The bright half of the moon is used to describe the appearance of fields of white sugar-cane, providing a visual comparison in the garden.[16] (4) The eleventh day of this is a specific time when omniscience arose in the Master who had fasted for two days.[17] (5) This time of the month when the Lord attained emancipation indicates a specific phase of the lunar cycle.[18]
The concept of Bright half in local and regional sources
Bright half signifies the period in the month of Kartik when Kabir pledged to visit and worship in the holy city, demonstrating his dedication to Dnyandev's invitation.
From: Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints
(1) This is a phase of the lunar cycle, specifically the first day of this phase in the month of Chaitra, when a devotional song was performed in Bedar.[19] (2) The bright half of the month of Kartik is the time when Kabir promised to visit and worship in the sacred city, showing his commitment to Dnyandev's invitation.[20]
From: Triveni Journal
(1) The bright half is mentioned in the context of the moon, referring to the waxing phase, and is used by the teacher to illustrate the growing love between Antone and Vasant.[21]