Significance of Desha
Desha, in various contexts, denotes the concept of place or geography. In Jainism, it refers to segments within skandha. The Natyashastra uses Desha to indicate geographical divisions like districts. In Yoga, it pertains to space for practicing kumbhaka techniques. Kavyashastra emphasizes its significance in poetry settings. Scientifically, Desha influences lifestyle, health, and dietary practices through geographical context, impacting Ayurvedic treatments and food properties. Thus, Desha is essential across disciplines for understanding spatial relevance and its effects.
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Desha'
In Hinduism, Desha signifies a country with administrative divisions, an evaluative space for kumbhaka practice, and a geographic term crucial in poetry to align settings with cultural traditions and expectations.
From: Yoga-sutras (Ancient and Modern Interpretations)
(1) Space where the activity of kumbhaka can be examined, related to the experience of sensations during practice.[1]
From: Kavyamimamsa of Rajasekhara (Study)
(1) A term denoting place or geography, important in poetry to ensure settings and actions correspond to traditional expectations.[2]
From: Dasarupaka (critical study)
(1) The term used for the country, divided into administrative divisions called Bhukti, Mandala, or District.[3]
Jain concept of 'Desha'
In Jainism, Desha signifies the divisible segments of skandha, highlighting the notion of distinct sections within the aggregates that make up existence, emphasizing the intricate structure of reality.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) Divisible parts of skandha, referring to segments or sections within the aggregates.[4]
The concept of Desha in scientific sources
Desha pertains to the location where disease and treatment occur, significantly impacting health outcomes. It highlights the importance of context in medical scenarios, demonstrating how geographical factors can affect disease management and therapy effectiveness.
From: International Ayurvedic Medical Journal
(1) The habitat or geographical origin of food items that can affect their properties and suitability for consumption.[5] (2) Geographical location and its impact on an individual’s lifestyle, health, and dietary practices.[6] (3) Refers to habitat or region, one of the important Ayurvedic considerations alongside kala and matra for effective treatment.[7] (4) Refers to the geographical and environmental factors that influence treatment decisions in Ayurveda, including seasonal and regional variations.[8] (5) The geographic and environmental context in which vegetables grow, affecting their quality and suitability for consumption.[9]
From: Journal of Ayurveda and Holistic Medicine
(1) Refers to the place of action in the context of disease and treatment, which can influence outcomes.[10]
From: AYU (Journal of Research in Ayurveda)
(1) The habitat or location favorable or unfavorable to an action; environmental context for both treatment and research.[11]