Significance of Burning fire
Burning fire is a significant symbol across various contexts in Buddhism, Vaishnavism, and other spiritual teachings. In Buddhism, it represents transformation, purification, and the destructive nature of suffering and ignorance. Tibetan rituals utilize burning fire in purifying rites and as a spiritual transformative element. In Vaishnavism, it symbolizes the turmoil caused by attachment, while Purana highlights its destructive capability and connection to divine retribution. Overall, burning fire embodies both destruction and the potential for profound personal and spiritual transformation.
Synonyms: Blazing fire, Raging fire, Fierce fire, Intense fire, Conflagration, Flame, Inferno, Blaze, Wildfire
In Dutch: Brandend vuur; In Finnish: Polttava tuli; In Spanish: Fuego ardiente
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Burning fire'
In Buddhism, Burning fire symbolizes purification and transformation within rituals, representing the elimination of impurities, the gathering of energies, and serving as a metaphor for enlightenment and the spiritual journey.
From: Guhyagarbha Tantra (with Commentary)
(1) A symbolic element in rituals representing purification, transformation, or sacrifice.[1] (2) The central element of the rite that signifies purification and the transformative aspect of the rituals.[2] (3) A component of the rite of wrath, it symbolizes the destructive power intended to eliminate impurities or obstacles in the spiritual context.[3] (4) The ritual element symbolized in the first section of the rite, which is represented by the fire of the hearth and the fire-god Agni.[4] (5) The initial part of the rite of pacification, involving the fire element.[5]
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) A metaphor for the knowledge that can consume all attachments and obstacles in one's spiritual path.[6]
From: Milindapanha (questions of King Milinda)
(1) An analogy for the Buddha's existence and teachings, suggesting that once something has ended, it cannot accept anything further.[7]
From: Apadana commentary (Atthakatha)
(1) A fire that continued to burn without receding, symbolizing the king's realization of the destructive nature of his depravity and suffering.[8]
Hindu concept of 'Burning fire'
In Hinduism, Burning fire symbolizes transformation, purification, and the dual nature of desire. It reflects themes of hope, divine compassion, and the destructive impact of unchecked ambition, illustrating both sacrifice and emotional turmoil within various contexts.
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) Symbolizes the purification process that Sikhidvaja undergoes as he discards his past attachments.[9] (2) The raging flames that consume the city and symbolize destruction and chaos.[10] (3) Symbolizes Karkati's relentless appetite and desire, likened to an uncontrollable blaze.[11] (4) The extreme conditions amidst which Suchi sat alone, representing her austere penance.[12] (5) The destructive force generated by the sage's anger, representing divine retribution and the consequences of wrongful actions.[13]
From: Skanda Purana
(1) A form of sacrifice or self-immolation at the Tirtha leading to a significant spiritual reward.[14] (2) Symbolizes purification and transformation, as seen through the self-immolation of the hunter's wife, reflecting her devotion.[15] (3) A metaphor for Vishakanyaka's despair and her contemplation of death.[16]
From: Harivamsha Purana
(1) A fire that serves a significant purpose within the community, indicating activity and life in the area.[17] (2) Represents destruction and transformation, emphasizing the goddess's dual nature.[18] (3) A metaphor used to describe the forest adorned with Kadamba and plantain flowers.[19]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) A symbol of passion and ambition, contrasting with the idea of a smoldering fire which represents stagnation and lack of drive.[20] (2) A metaphor for the intense and often destructive nature of unchecked desire.[21]
From: Shiva Purana
(1) The destructive flames commanded by Shiva to consume the unworthy participants at Daksha's sacrifice.[22]
From: Gautami Mahatmya
(1) A significant element that represents hope and necessity for warmth; when lit by the king of birds, it symbolizes compassion towards the distressed hunter.[23]
From: Matsya Purana (critical study)
(1) This imagery represents emotional pain and is used to portray the deep anguish of a character.[24]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki
(1) The context in which a man was seen seated, laughing aloud, causing both wonder and dread.[25]
From: Haribhakti-sudhodaya
(1) A metaphor for the suffering and turmoil caused by attachment to worldly affairs and material desires.[26] (2) A metaphor for the destructive nature of sin and ignorance that the virtuous must avoid.[27]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) A metaphorical representation of the emotional turmoil or suffering experienced by devotees due to the comparison to atheists.[28]
From: Brahma Sutras (Ramanuja)
(1) An illustration of the tripartite nature where red, white, and black colors represent the elemental qualities of fire, water, and earth respectively.[29] (2) Fire in its active state, used as an example in the explanation of the tripartition process.[30]
From: Chandogya Upanishad (english Translation)
(1) A comparison used to illustrate a sound that demonstrates the inner reality of heat and light.[31]
From: Apastamba Dharma-sutra
(1) A metaphorical description of a guest, implying their importance and the need for respect, paralleling the sacred nature of fire in rituals.[32]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) Represents the vital aspect of sacrifice and ritual in Hinduism, emphasizing the importance of proper offerings.[33]
From: Narayaniya (Narayaneeyam)
(1) Symbolically represents Agni, the force of transformation and purification in Vedic rituals.[34]
The concept of Burning fire in local and regional sources
Burning fire symbolizes intense passion or suffering, illustrating how heightened emotions can lead to toxic outcomes. This metaphor highlights the potential dangers of unrestrained feelings and their ability to harm oneself or others.
From: Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints
(1) A metaphor representing intense passion or suffering, used to illustrate a condition under which poison could become harmful.[35]