Significance of Cemetery
The concept of Cemetery varies across different traditions and texts. In Purana, it symbolizes contemplation of death, while Kavya presents it as a site of dark magic and resurrection efforts. Vyakarana refers to it as a resting place for the deceased, while Shaivism associates it with ascetic practices. Dharmashastra emphasizes purification rituals related to visiting cemeteries. Theravada uses it to confront death's realities and portrays it as a setting for various pivotal events, illustrating its multifaceted significance in cultural narratives.
Synonyms: Graveyard, Resting place
In Dutch: Begraafplaats
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Cemetery'
In Buddhism, a cemetery symbolizes a location for confronting death and decay, revealing spiritual truths. It serves as a reminder of mortality, challenges in devotion, and opportunities for emotional healing and equanimity.
From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) The location where the child of the ogress was hidden, indicating themes of life, death, and identity.[1] (2) A place where the deceased are buried, typically marked by graves and memorials.[2] (3) The place where the brahmin mourned for his son and made his moan, symbolizing his inability to move on.[3] (4) The place where the Bodhisatta trains his father to overcome his bashfulness and practice speaking to the king.[4]
From: Maha Buddhavamsa—The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) The location where the rich man of Kosambi ordered the abandonment of baby Ghosaka in hopes he would be killed.[5] (2) The chosen location by the Bodhisatta for seclusion, where he believed he could fulfill his goal of equanimity without external interruptions.[6] (3) A fearsome place encountered by Anathapindika on his way to the Buddha, highlighting his devotional challenges.[7]
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) The place where the monks were sent to realize the reality of death and the impermanence of life.[8] (2) The place where Kisagotami left her child's corpse, acknowledging that death is a universal experience.[9]
Hindu concept of 'Cemetery'
In Hinduism, a cemetery, identified by terms like pitrivana and pretavana, serves multiple roles: a resting place for the deceased, a site of supernatural interactions, and a focal point for rituals involving death, resurrection, and dark magic.
From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)
(1) The burial site where the three young Brahmans mourn Mandaravati, and where significant events unfold involving the resurrection of the maiden.[10] (2) A sinister location that becomes the focal point of dark magic in the tale, representing danger and supernatural manipulation.[11] (3) A key location in the story where the characters' interactions with the supernatural take place.[12] (4) The site of various interactions and events in the stories, often related to the mystical themes of death and resurrection.[13]
From: Lakulisha-Pashupata (Philosophy and Practice)
(1) A setting relevant to Kapalikas, especially in the context of rituals and ascetic practices.[14]
From: Gobhila-grihya-sutra
(1) A place where, if visited, the individual needs to perform the purification ritual by sipping water.[15]
From: Amarakoshodghatana of Kshirasvamin (study)
(1) Identified by terms like pitrivana, pretavana, and karavira, representing a place where the deceased are laid to rest.[16]
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) A burial ground where the characters stood motionless, symbolizing contemplation of death.[17]