Significance of East
Synonyms: Orient, Eastern part, Eastern region
In Dutch: Oosten
In Finnish: Itään
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'East'
In Buddhism, East symbolizes a cardinal direction that represents concepts of Space, paralleling time in its embodiment of division and interconnectedness, illustrating profound philosophical ideas that shape understanding of existence and context.
From: Tattvasangraha [with commentary]
(1) A cardinal direction attributed to notions of Space, which, similar to time, purportedly embodies ideas of division and relationships.[1]
Hindu concept of 'East'
In Hinduism, East symbolizes a sacred direction for morning devotion, representing the beginning of a new day as individuals face the sun's rise, embodying renewal and spiritual awakening.
From: Sankhayana-grihya-sutra
(1) The direction towards which the individual turns during morning devotion until the sun rises.[2]
From: Hiranyakesi-grihya-sutra
(1) The direction towards which the bride faces, representing new beginnings and enlightenment.[3]
From: Asvalayana-grihya-sutra
(1) The direction the teacher faces while performing the ritual, signifying auspiciousness.[4]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) The cardinal direction where the sun rises, indicating the geographical orientation of the location described.[5] (2) The direction indicated by 'pracyam', referring to the location of the events described.[6]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) A directional reference indicating the direction in which the Lord proceeded after speaking, possibly symbolizing a journey toward enlightenment or awakening.[7]
From: Satapatha-brahmana
(1) The direction to which Agni must be driven first, as it is considered his region, reinforcing the cosmic order of the performance.[8] (2) A geographical and cultural term that refers to the eastern parts of the world, often associated with Asian cultures and religions.[9]
From: Chandogya Upanishad (english Translation)
(1) One of the four directions representing one part of Brahman.[10]
From: Shaiva Upanishads (A Critical Study)
(1) Geographical area that includes Java and Sumatra, highlighting the spread of Shiva worship.[11]
From: Vakyapadiya of Bhartrihari
(1) An attribute imposed on objects, representing a direction rather than an independent entity.[12]
Jain concept of 'East'
In Jainism, East is a cardinal direction representing various kingdoms such as Pragama and Mastaka, signifying its geographical and cultural significance within the religious and historical context of the belief system.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) One of the cardinal directions where various kingdoms were located, including Pragama, Mastaka, and others.[13]