Significance of Eater
The term "Eater" in Dharmashastra has a dual meaning. Firstly, it refers to an individual who consumes food. Secondly, it denotes childless persons, viewed as merely consuming resources without ensuring the continuity of life. This perspective is critical, as it implies that their existence is limited and lacks contribution to future generations. Thus, the concept of "Eater" highlights a philosophical view on life, consumption, and legacy within the Dharmashastra framework.
Synonyms: Diner, Carnivore, Gourmand, Breadwinner, Glutton
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Eater'
In Hinduism, "Eater" signifies an individual who consumes resources but, lacking offspring, contributes little to the cycle of life, suggesting a limited existence and emphasizing the importance of continuity and contribution to future generations.
From: Prashna Upanishad with Shankara’s Commentary
(1) A description of Prana as the consuming force, receiving all the offerings from the bodies it inhabits.[1] (2) An entity characterized by the act of consumption or assimilation of life.[2] (3) Describes prana as the consuming force or essence within the body.[3]
From: Brahma Sutras (Shankara Bhashya)
(1) A term referring to Brahman, highlighting its role in the cosmic cycle, particularly at the time of dissolution.[4]
From: Brahma Sutras (Ramanuja)
(1) The highest Self, associated with the act of taking all that is movable and immovable in the universe.[5]
From: Kathopanishad (Madhva commentary)
(1) The term 'Eater' relates to Vishnu, who brings forth sustenance and consumes existence while remaining undivided from the elements.[6]
From: Katha Upanishad with Shankara’s Commentary
(1) A function or role assigned to a female figure in the text, emphasizing her ability to consume or absorb.[7]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) Described as the worst among those who cause harm, specifically referring to the individual who consumes meat.[8] (2) This term describes childless persons as merely consuming resources without contributing to the continuity of life, marking their existence as limited.[9] (3) One who eats.[10]
From: Satapatha-brahmana
(1) The eater is identified within the context of the juhu, representing the individual consuming the offerings.[11] (2) Represents the divine individual concealed in food, analogous to the man in the right eye.[12] (3) Represents the consuming entity, equated with Agni, the breath, or the sun in different contexts.[13]
From: Vakyapadiya of Bhartrihari
(1) The subjects in relation to whom the meaning of the major sentence is applied, as suggested by the understanding of the minor sentences.[14] (2) Refers to individuals or groups who consume food, mentioned as acting together while eating separately served portions simultaneously.[15]