Significance of Coral

Coral has varied significance across different texts. In Purana, it is associated with the radiant features of Lord Shiva's northern face. Kavya highlights Coral as a precious material symbolizing wealth and beauty, often received by a king. Additionally, Rasashastra identifies Coral as a marine substance utilized in medicinal preparations, including both its natural forms and ground ashes as components in formulations. This illustrates Coral's multifaceted roles in spirituality, royalty, and medicine.1

Synonyms: Aquatic organism, Bank

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Hindu concept of 'Coral'

Hinduism Books

In Hinduism, coral symbolizes Lord Shiva's radiant attributes, serves medicinal purposes, represents natural marine structures in formulations, and signifies wealth and beauty as a precious material for sovereign kings.

Significance of Corals in Rasashastra (chemistry and alchemy):

Rasashastra Books

From: Rasa Jala Nidhi, vol 4: Iatrochemistry

(1) Organic material derived from marine organisms, possibly used for its believed health benefits.^[1] (2) A marine substance used as part of the medicinal preparation.^[2] (3) Natural marine structures that are ground into ashes and included in the formulation.^[3]

Rasashastra is an important branch of Ayurveda, specialising in chemical interactions with herbs, metals and minerals. Some texts combine yogic and tantric practices with various alchemical operations. The ultimate goal of Rasashastra is not only to preserve and prolong life, but also to bestow wealth upon humankind.

Significance of Corals in Purana and Itihasa (epic history):

Purana Books

From: Shiva Purana

(1) Used to describe the radiant and attractive characteristics of Lord Shiva's northern face.^[4]

The Purana refers to Sanskrit literature preserving ancient India’s vast cultural history, including historical legends, religious ceremonies, various arts and sciences. The eighteen mahapuranas total over 400,000 shlokas (metrical couplets) and date to at least several centuries BCE.

Significance of Corals in Kavya (poetry):

Kavya Books

From: Harshacharita (socio-cultural Study)

(1) A precious material received by the sovereign king, signifying wealth and beauty.^[5]

Kavya refers to Sanskrit poetry, a popular ancient Indian tradition of literature. There have been many Sanskrit poets over the ages, hailing from ancient India and beyond. This topic includes mahakavya, or ‘epic poetry’ and natya, or ‘dramatic poetry’.

Plural form: Corals.

Last Updated: 27 October, 2024