Significance of Earthy substance
The keyphrase "Earthy substance" encompasses various interpretations across different texts. In the Purana, it describes shiny materials resembling heavenly bodies, while the Dharmashastra characterizes it as naturally occurring materials from the Earth. The Vaisheshika tradition further defines it in two ways: as solid materials like stones, bricks, and dry fuel, contrasting with aqueous bodies, and as heated materials like butter and beeswax, highlighting the transformative nature of the Earth.
Synonyms: Soil, Dirt, Earth, Ground, Clay, Humus
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Earthy substance'
In Hinduism, "Earthy substance" encompasses naturally occurring materials, transformative elements like butter and beeswax, shiny celestial materials, and physical components like stones and bricks, emphasizing the contrast between earthly and aqueous elements.
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) Substances derived from the earth, not directly associated with plant exudations and may refer to things like assafœtida and camphor that are clearly identified.[1] (2) Materials that are derived from the earth, typically solid in form.[2]
From: Padarthadharmasamgraha and Nyayakandali
(1) Refers to materials such as Butter and Beeswax that exhibit fluidity when heated, signifying the Earth’s capability of transformation.[3] (2) Materials such as stones, bricks, and dry fuel that comprise the earthly body, contrasting with aqueous bodies.[4]
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) Material of some heavenly bodies that appears shiny and moves like mountains.[5]
From: Sushruta Samhita, volume 1: Sutrasthana
(1) Includes metals, minerals, gems, and other earth-derived materials used in Ayurveda.[6]