Significance of Clear water
Clear water is a significant metaphor across various traditions, representing purity, happiness, and spiritual clarity. In Buddhism, it symbolizes happiness from bodhicitta, while Jainism sees it as the essence of a pure soul. The pristine waters in Hindu texts, such as those of the Ganga, imply spiritual sanctity and healing properties. This concept varies slightly in other philosophies, like Mahayana and Theravada, where it also reflects undisturbed minds and virtues. Overall, clear water embodies the themes of purity, beauty, and spiritual significance in multiple contexts.
Synonyms: Pure water, Clean water, Transparent water, Unpolluted water., Unpolluted water
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Clear water'
In Buddhism, "Clear water" symbolizes a pure and undisturbed mind, reflecting true perception and virtues of faith, akin to the clarity and purity found in unaffected water, embodying happiness and the essence of enlightenment.
From: Maha Buddhavamsa—The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) Water that is pure and drinkable, as found in the Kakudha river, preferred for consumption over turbid water.[1] (2) An analogy used to illustrate how faith, devoid of mental defilements, can hold and reflect the virtues and attributes of the Buddha.[2]
From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) Describing the quality of the water in the pool as it was before, illustrating how disputes among serpent chiefs lead to its current turbidity.[3]
From: Vinaya Pitaka (3): Khandhaka
(1) Refers to water mentioned in the context of medicinal treatments.[4]
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) A metaphor for a pure and undisturbed mind where true perception can occur.[5] (2) The condition of the rivers' waters after they merge into the ocean, suggesting purity and clarity.[6]
From: Tattvasangraha [with commentary]
(1) Water that is transparent enough to allow reflections to be seen clearly, creating the illusion of mirrored images.[7]
From: The Great Chariot
(1) A metaphor used to illustrate the concept of happiness from bodhicitta, comparing it to clear water flowing into the ocean.[8]
Hindu concept of 'Clear water'
In Hinduism, "Clear water" symbolizes purity and sanctity, often associated with the Ganges. It represents healing, spiritual rituals, and beauty in nature, reflecting clarity and serving as a vital source for rituals and spiritual benefits.
From: Skanda Purana
(1) The pool in Sundara Kunda that is pristine and pleasing.[9] (2) The pure and holy water within the Kunda, which is significant for healing and purification rituals.[10] (3) Drinking the clear water of the pond named Kedara is presented as a vital act with spiritual benefits.[11] (4) Pure and untainted water that is significant for performing rituals and maintaining spiritual purity.[12] (5) Pristine and transparent water, in which the princess played and enjoyed her time.[13]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) The lakes in the nether regions are noted for their clear waters, where aquatic animals and various types of lotuses flourish.[14] (2) The refreshing river encountered by King Harishcandra that provides relief from his thirst.[15] (3) Descriptive imagery of the lake near the city, setting a beautiful backdrop for the events involving the characters.[16]
From: Padma Purana
(1) Refers to the pristine waters of Ganga, symbolizing purity and sanctity.[17] (2) Unblemished, transparent water found in moats surrounding the city, adding to its beauty.[18] (3) Water described as holy and pure, particularly important for offering benefits to those who bathe in it.[19]
From: Bhagavata Purana
(1) Purified and transparent water found in lakes, symbolizing purity and cleanliness in nature.[20]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki
(1) Pure water from the hermitage that represents the hospitality and offerings made to King Vishvamitra.[21]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) The specific condition of the water that delighted Mahaprabhu upon his arrival.[22]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) Describes the purity and clarity of the waters in rivers, streams, oceans, and lakes.[23]
From: Rasa Jala Nidhi, vol 3: Metals, Gems and other substances
(1) Water used to wash off Vaikranta after it has been treated with juice of nirgundi.[24]
From: Vakyapadiya of Bhartrihari
(1) A metaphor used to describe the clarity and reflection of the prompting universals within the determined effects.[25]
From: Kavyamimamsa of Rajasekhara (Study)
(1) The clarity of water in rivers, lakes, and ponds during the autumn, enhancing the beauty of the landscape.[26]
Jain concept of 'Clear water'
In Jainism, "clear water" symbolizes both pristine natural beauty, reflecting the serene environment of Kakandi, and a pure soul that can become tainted, also evoking the aesthetic appeal of the sacred lotus-pool.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) Describes the purity and beauty of the lotus-pool, enhancing its aesthetic and spiritual appeal.[27] (2) The pristine ponds in Kakandi that mirror natural elements, contributing to the city's serene environment.[28]
From: Sutrakritanga (English translation)
(1) A metaphor for a pure soul that, much like water, can become defiled again by experiences or emotions.[29]
The concept of Clear water in local and regional sources
Clear water symbolizes purity and cleanliness, essential to fulfilling vows, while also reflecting the quality of clarity, occasionally tumultuous, found in local tanks, highlighting its significance in both spiritual and environmental contexts.
From: Buddhist records of the Western world (Xuanzang)
(1) The quality of the water in the tanks, characterized by clarity and described as sometimes tumultuous.[30]
From: Triveni Journal
(1) Symbolizes purity and cleanliness, suggested as an essential aspect of the vow being fulfilled.[31]