Significance of Childlessness
Childlessness has various interpretations across different contexts. In Vaishnavism, it simply signifies a lack of children, while in Kavya literature, it represents the deep sorrow experienced by King Hemaprabha due to the lack of heirs. Ayurveda highlights the societal stigma faced by women without children, portraying it as a significant failure in ancient societies. From a scientific perspective, childlessness is described as the inability to conceive, leading to personal distress.
Synonyms: Infertility, Barrenness, Absence of children, Sterility
In Dutch: Kinderloosheid; In Finnish: Lapsettomuus; In Spanish: No hijo
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Childlessness'
Childlessness in Hinduism signifies the absence of offspring, causing emotional distress for figures like King Hemaprabha, while also carrying societal stigma, particularly towards women, reflecting cultural pressures regarding lineage and procreation.
From: History of Indian Medicine (and Ayurveda)
(1) The social stigma attached to women who do not bear children, viewed as a significant failing in ancient cultures.[1]
From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)
(1) The source of melancholy for King Hemaprabha, highlighting the longing for heirs and continuation of lineage.[2]
The concept of Childlessness in scientific sources
Childlessness describes the inability to conceive or bear children, often leading to personal suffering. This condition affects individuals deeply, highlighting emotional and social implications tied to fertility challenges.