Significance of Conflagration
The term Conflagration has various interpretations across South Asia, primarily representing a large and destructive fire. It is associated with significant destruction, as seen in the incident involving the Jetavana vihara, and symbolizes intense purification and transformation, especially in the context of battles and emotional turmoil. The Purana literature uses Conflagration metaphorically to illustrate fierce battles, losses, and chaos, while Kavyashastra highlights its figurative use in representing emotional intensity rather than a literal fire.
Synonyms: Inferno, Blaze, Wildfire, Raging fire, Holocaust, Fire
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Conflagration'
In Hinduism, "Conflagration" symbolizes transformative purification, intense emotional states, and destructive fires. It metaphorically represents chaos, loss, and the turmoil of battles, particularly reflecting the destructive impact at the end of a Yuga.
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) A large fire that caused significant trouble and loss in the context of the Pandavas' heritage and safety.[1] (2) A fierce and destructive fire described metaphorically to illustrate the intensity of the ongoing battle.[2] (3) A metaphor illustrating the destructive nature of the battle, likening the chaos to a wildfire.[3] (4) A large and destructive fire, metaphorically representing loss or destruction.[4]
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) A large and destructive fire, vividly described in its intensity and impact on the city.[5] (2) A large and destructive fire which symbolizes intense purification or transformation.[6]
From: Skanda Purana
(1) Large and intense fire that causes extensive destruction, especially during the end of a Yuga.[7]
From: Sahitya-kaumudi by Baladeva Vidyabhushana
(1) Symbolizes great trouble or sorrow, depicted as something all-consuming in the context of the forest of Danavas.[8] (2) Used figuratively to describe an intense emotional state caused by longing or desire, rather than actual fire.[9] (3) A term used to describe a large destructive fire, which metaphorically represents intense emotional turmoil despite a cool external condition.[10]
The concept of Conflagration in local and regional sources
Conflagration, in this context, signifies the devastating fire ignited by a rat that resulted in the destruction of the seven storeys of Jetavana vihara, causing significant distress among the local population.
From: The travels of Fa-Hian (400 A.D.)
(1) The fire caused by a rat that led to the destruction of the seven storeys of the Jetavana vihara, creating distress among the people.[11]
From: Triveni Journal
(1) A large and destructive fire that led to the destruction of the fisher-folk's huts, resulting in their displacement.[12]