Significance of Divine water
Divine water is a sacred element prominently recognized across Hinduism, Jainism, Tibetan Buddhism, Vaishnavism, and Purana. In Hinduism, it symbolizes purification, vitality, and strength, often invoked in rituals to enhance sacrifices and confer blessings. Jainism sees it as a representation of sanctity and purification. Tibetan Buddhism regards it as a spiritual offering, while Vaishnavism associates it with ecstatic love and spiritual festivities. Generally, divine water signifies sacredness, purifying properties, and the essence of life in various spiritual and ritualistic contexts.
Synonyms: Sacred water, Holy water, Spiritual water, Blessed water, Consecrated water, Celestial water
In Dutch: Goddelijk water; In Finnish: Jumalallinen vesi; In Spanish: Agua divina
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Divine water'
In Buddhism, Divine water symbolizes spiritual offerings to Kodrakpa by the naga of ma pham, representing blessings and empowerment. It embodies a sacred connection that facilitates spiritual growth and enlightenment.
From: Blue Annals (deb-ther sngon-po)
(1) A spiritual offering made to Kodrakpa by the naga of ma pham, symbolizing blessings and empowerment.[1]
Hindu concept of 'Divine water'
In Hinduism, "Divine water" embodies sacred, purifying qualities essential in rituals, symbolizing strength and blessings, especially from significant sources like the Ganges. It represents spiritual nourishment, connection to higher powers, and is integral to sacrificial rites.
From: Bharadvaja-srauta-sutra
(1) The waters that are considered sacred and integral to the sacrificial process, believed to bring prosperity and blessings.[2] (2) Sacred waters that are invoked for their purifying and beneficial properties in rituals.[3] (3) Waters involved in the purification process, invoked in a formula during the ritual to aid in leading the sacrifice.[4] (4) Water that is metaphorically linked to purity and renewal, sought during the rituals with specific invocations.[5] (5) A mystical element called upon during the rituals to aid and provide prosperity to the sacrificer.[6]
From: Hiranyakesi-grihya-sutra
(1) Waters that are spiritually significant and involved in invoking Agni and securing the favor of the Fathers.[7]
From: Paraskara-grihya-sutra
(1) Waters invoked during the ceremony to bless the boy with long life and splendour.[8]
From: Asvalayana-grihya-sutra
(1) Sacred waters referred to in the ritual that are believed to bring luck and help.[9]
From: Satapatha-brahmana
(1) A reference to water considered sacred in the ritual, symbolizing purification and nourishment.[10] (2) Refers to pure and sacred waters invoked to carry the sacrifice to the gods.[11] (3) The sacred water invoked in rituals, believed to have the power to purify and confer blessings upon the individual undergoing consecration.[12] (4) Refers to the holy waters that are invoked during the rituals to enhance the sacrificial rites.[13] (5) Waters that are regarded as sacred, which receive the ashes and are integral to the processes of creation and sustenance.[14]
From: Shiva Purana
(1) The special water that Ganga provided to Atri after Anasuya's request.[15] (2) Divine waters are seen as the essence that embodies and permeates the void, powerful enough to eliminate sins.[16] (3) Sacred water that Gautama wished for, believed to yield permanent results and benefits.[17]
From: Padma Purana
(1) The water that flowed from Vishnu's foot, which is revered for its purifying qualities and becomes associated with the sacred river Ganges.[18] (2) The holy Ganges river, used as a medium through which divine flowers travel.[19]
From: Skanda Purana
(1) Water regarded as sacred and powerful, used in rituals for spiritual significances.[20] (2) Refers to the sacred waters of Svamipushkarini that were comparable to nectar.[21]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) A manifestation of the mellows of ecstatic love, related to Krishna.[22] (2) Special or sacred water that is associated with a higher power, quality, or significance, specifically taken from Puri Gosvami’s well.[23]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) referring to the pure and splendid nature of water within the context of spiritual festivities.[24]
Jain concept of 'Divine water'
In Jainism, Divine water symbolizes Subhadra’s extraordinary qualities, serves as a purifying element for the chief-god, and represents sanctity when used for bathing the Master's body, emphasizing themes of purification throughout.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) A metaphor for Subhadra's unique qualities, illustrating her extraordinary powers.[25] (2) The water used for sprinkling the chief-god, representing purification and sanctity.[26] (3) Sacred water used for bathing the Master's body, symbolizing purification and sanctity.[27]
The concept of Divine water in local and regional sources
Divine waters symbolize spiritual purity and nourishment, representing a sacred connection to both life and the divine. This concept emphasizes the importance of spiritual refreshment and the essence of life's sacredness.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) A symbol of spiritual purity and nourishment, implying a sacred connection to life and the divine.[28]