Significance of Deep water
Deep water is a multifaceted term across various Indian philosophical traditions, each attributing unique meanings. In Hinduism, it signifies a higher spiritual engagement, while Jainism associates it with suffering. Vaishnavism views it as both a chaotic force needing divine rescue and a metaphor for spiritual depth. Other traditions, like Mahayana and Theravada, describe it as a representation of life’s challenges and intense experiences. Overall, deep water serves as a profound metaphor for obstacles and spiritual journeys, emphasizing the interplay of chaos and enlightenment.
Synonyms: Deep sea, Deep ocean, Abyss
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Deep water'
In Buddhism, "Deep water" symbolizes various challenges encountered on the spiritual path, representing obstacles, delusion, and overwhelming experiences that require guidance to navigate, ultimately reflecting the journey towards clarity and understanding.
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) A metaphor for the challenges and obstacles that must be navigated on the path.[1] (2) An obstacle encountered on the journey; metaphorically indicates challenges faced in the pursuit of one’s goals.[2] (3) A location described as being far from human activity, where a man was found in distress.[3]
From: Buddhacarita
(1) Symbolizes delusion, representing the dangers that obscure one’s clarity and understanding in life.[4]
From: Shurangama Sutra (with commentary) (English)
(1) Symbolizing overwhelming challenges or experiences that one may encounter, which can lead to drowning without spiritual assistance.[5]
From: Dhammapada (translated from the Pali)
(1) A metaphorical representation of challenging or intense experiences that can be encountered in life.[6]
Hindu concept of 'Deep water'
In Hinduism, "Deep water" symbolizes various concepts, including primordial chaos before creation, spiritual depths, areas of danger, and profound moments where divine acts occur, highlighting both literal and metaphorical interpretations of existence and spirituality.
From: Tiruvaymoli (Thiruvaimozhi): English translation
(1) The profound depths from which the Lord has drawn the Earth, showcasing His creative power.[7] (2) A metaphorical reference to the profound depths of spiritual experience and devotion.[8] (3) The vast and profound waters of the oceans that celebrate the arrival of guests.[9] (4) Represents the chaos and oblivion of the deluge from which the Lord rescues the Earth.[10] (5) Symbolizes the vast, engulfing forces from which the Lord rescued the Earth, representing challenges and chaos.[11]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) A metaphorical or literal place where the records can be hidden or disposed of permanently.[12] (2) A metaphorical representation of material existence that traps conditioned souls away from spiritual realization.[13]
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) A metaphor for the confusion and overwhelming nature of thoughts experienced during meditation.[14] (2) The lower portions of a water body, where aquatic life such as fish resides.[15]
From: Skanda Purana
(1) The significant location into which the Vadava fire is hurled, emphasizing the depth and power of the ocean.[16]
From: Laghu-yoga-vasistha
(1) A metaphor for punishment inflicted by the king on the adulterous couple, representing their presumed downfall.[17]
From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)
(1) An area the initiate is instructed to avoid, as it was believed to pose danger and could lead to impurities or misfortune.[18]
From: Bhishma Charitra
(1) The place where Duryodhana sought refuge during the battle to hide from his enemies, illustrating his cowardice.[19]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) Water that is significant enough to necessitate the use of boats for combat on marshy grounds.[20]
From: Sahitya-kaumudi by Baladeva Vidyabhushana
(1) Symbolizes the unfathomable qualities of the waters of the Ganges, implying that their depth is both literal and metaphorical, as expressed by the term 'gahanam'.[21]
From: Satapatha-brahmana
(1) The realm beyond shallow areas that represents a higher level of spiritual or ritual engagement.[22]
Jain concept of 'Deep water'
In Jainism, "Deep water" symbolizes a significant depth linked to drowning and suffering, representing the torment experienced in hell, emphasizing the spiritual dangers and the consequences of one's actions in seeking liberation.
From: Sutrakritanga (English translation)
(1) A profound expanse of water associated with drowning and suffering in the context of hell.[23]
The concept of Deep water in local and regional sources
Deep water encompasses both literal and metaphorical meanings, representing not only significant depths in wells and rivers but also complex discussions that promote deeper understanding and meaningful experiences.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) A metaphorical expression indicating complex or complicated subjects in a discussion that can lead to deeper understanding.[24] (2) The river that is characterized by its depth, suggesting a significant and possibly profound experience.[25]
From: Folk Tales of Gujarat (and Jhaverchand Meghani)
(1) Refers to the significant depth of water found in wells, as noted during Vikram's encounters.[26]