Significance of Dense Darkness
Dense Darkness is a term explored in various spiritual contexts, symbolizing profound ignorance and confusion. In Jainism, it signifies extreme despair and the impenetrability of night. Tibetan Buddhism characterizes it as an obstructive layer hindering sound perception, reflecting a lack of clarity about spiritual knowledge. Vaishnavism views Dense Darkness as deep ignorance obscuring the divine. In Purana, it represents the suffering of samsara and spiritual blindness. Similarly, Dharmashastra describes it as a world unrecognized and obscured by ignorance.
Synonyms: Thick darkness, Profound darkness, Pitch black, Pitch dark, Total darkness, Deep shadow, Utter darkness
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Dense Darkness'
Dense Darkness in Buddhism symbolizes confusion and ignorance, representing a lack of understanding and clarity. It evokes a state where perceptions are obscured, akin to an obstructive layer that hinders insight and awareness.
From: Tattvasangraha [with commentary]
(1) A metaphorical description indicating a state of ignorance or lack of clarity regarding the understanding of the Veda.[1] (2) The thick, obstructive layer that conceals Sound, analogous to the immobile air-envelope.[2] (3) A metaphor describing the immobile Air-envelope that obscures the perception of Sound, likening it to a dark covering that hides visibility.[3] (4) A metaphorical state that implies confusion or lack of understanding, where initial perceptions are unclear.[4] (5) A period characterized by deep obscurity or lack of light, suggesting confusion or uncertainty.[5]
From: Apadana commentary (Atthakatha)
(1) Metaphorical representation of ignorance and depravity (kilesa) that obstructs spiritual progress.[6]
Hindu concept of 'Dense Darkness'
Dense Darkness in Hinduism symbolizes ignorance and confusion regarding spiritual truths, obscured by material limitations and demonstrated by the challenges of perceiving divine presence amidst the suffering of samsara and demonic influences.
From: Skanda Purana
(1) A metaphorical expression indicating the state of unconsciousness the demon fell into after being wounded.[7] (2) Symbolizing ignorance or confusion regarding spiritual truths, which diminishes through the presence of the divine form.[8]
From: Bhagavata Purana
(1) A metaphor for the suffering and ignorance found in samsara, the cycle of birth and rebirth.[9]
From: Padma Purana
(1) A situation created in the three worlds by Namuci that obscured visibility for both gods and demons.[10]
From: Lalitopakhyana (Lalita Mahatmya)
(1) The overwhelming night's darkness that provides cover for the Daityas, enhancing their strength.[11]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) a figurative expression used to convey the challenging nature of perceiving the lord beyond material limitations.[12] (2) A region of deep ignorance that is incredibly arduous to cross, manifesting from the transformation of material nature.[13] (3) Symbolizes ignorance or the unawareness of divine presence, contrasted with the illuminating beauty of the Lord.[14]
From: Sahitya-kaumudi by Baladeva Vidyabhushana
(1) A metaphorical expression for substantial obscurity or lack of light.[15] (2) A state of lack or absence, akin to the night without the moon, leading to a diminished beauty.[16]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) The state of the world that was unperceived and undifferentiated, likened to deep obscurity or ignorance.[17]
From: Dvisahasri of Tembesvami (Summary and Study)
(1) A literal and metaphorical barrier that causes confusion and leads to unfortunate events.[18]
Jain concept of 'Dense Darkness'
In Jainism, Dense Darkness symbolizes a state of despair and uncertainty, akin to impenetrable night, contrasting with the sun's light that dispels it, and evokes extreme obscurity often linked to hellish torment.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) Represented in the dreams as something that the sun disperses, associated with lack of knowledge or joy.[19] (2) A state symbolized by the sun in the dreams, which the sun destroys, bringing light and day even during nighttime.[20] (3) Refers to the thick and impenetrable nature of the night, creating a sense of despair and uncertainty.[21]
From: Sutrakritanga (English translation)
(1) A condition of extreme obscurity and despair, often associated with the torment of hell.[22]
The concept of Dense Darkness in local and regional sources
Dense Darkness signifies a profound psychological and environmental obscurity that overwhelms Kolappan, contributing to his weariness and mental fatigue as he navigates through the obscured lane.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) A thick obscurity that envelops the lane, impacting Kolappan’s mind as he feels weary.[23]