Significance of Father
The keyphrase "Father" in various contexts highlights diverse interpretations within Hinduism and related traditions. In Hinduism, "Father" denotes ancestors honored in rituals, ancestral groups invoked for blessings, and male parents symbolizing support and guidance. Vaishnavism uses "Father" to address figures with respect, illustrating familial relationships. Additionally, other texts identify "Father" as a pivotal ancestral figure honored during sacrifices and offerings, encompassing both spiritual significance and familial roles across different traditions, including Purana, Dharmashastra, and Vyakarana.
Synonyms: Papa, Old man, Patriarch, Progenitor
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Father'
In Buddhism, "Father" represents a male parent offering love and worldly support. However, this role is not viewed as the ultimate pathway to spiritual liberation, emphasizing a distinction between parental guidance and spiritual enlightenment.
From: Tattvasangraha [with commentary]
(1) In the context of the passage, represents the older counterpart in a relationship, often described as posterior.[1]
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) One's male parent, similar to the mother in providing love and worldly benefits, but not the highest means to spiritual liberation.[2]
Hindu concept of 'Father'
In Hinduism, "Father" embodies ancestral spirits honored in rituals, a revered familial figure, and a source of guidance. It represents respect, love, and connection to heritage through sacrificial offerings and ceremonial practices.
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) Referred to as the main mentor and source of respect in the sacramental rites, embodying the roles of master and life-giver.[3] (2) A male parent who should not be treated with disrespect according to the text.[4] (3) A family member who is considered a protective figure and is unpunishable by the King.[5] (4) Indicates the male parent involved in potential alienation caused by gossip or slander.[6] (5) A reference to a paternal figure in the context of the offerings and rituals described in the text.[7]
From: Asvalayana-grihya-sutra
(1) Refers to the ancestral spirits honored during the offerings made in the Ashtaka rituals.[8] (2) The ancestral spirits being honored during the Shraddha ceremony.[9] (3) An acknowledgment of ancestral spirits or forefathers remembered and honored through Vedic rituals and offerings.[10] (4) Refers to the ancestral spirits to whom offerings are made.[11]
From: Hiranyakesi-grihya-sutra
(1) Ancestral spirits or figures invoked during the Shraddha who are honored through sacrifices and offerings.[12] (2) Ancestors or forefathers honored in the rites through offerings of food and water.[13] (3) The ancestral spirits who are acknowledged in the rituals, both those present and absent.[14]
From: Paraskara-grihya-sutra
(1) An expression that refers to ancestral spirits or deities related to one's lineage.[15]
From: Bharadvaja-srauta-sutra
(1) The primary ancestor to whom the first offering is directed, recognized in the ceremonial process.[16]
From: Sankhayana-grihya-sutra
(1) Refers to the ancestors who are honored during the Pinda-offerings.[17]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) Refers to Advaita Acarya in the context of his relationship with the Lord, implying authority and mentorship.[18] (2) A term of endearment and respect used to signify a familial or high-status relationship.[19] (3) A term used by Lord Gauracandra to address Pundarika Vidyanidhi, signifying a deep respect and affection.[20] (4) One of the two main characters in the text, who prepares a torch.[21] (5) The male parent of an individual, specifically referring to Jagannatha Mishra Purandara in this context.[22]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) A male parent who is responsible for providing support and guidance to their children.[23]
From: Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu
(1) A familial role used in the context of personal devotion to the Lord, reflecting love and reverence.[24]
From: Satapatha-brahmana
(1) The ancestral spirits that are honored through offerings made during sacrifices.[25] (2) Represents ancestral or mortal forces associated with the seasons of autumn, winter, and the night.[26] (3) An ancestral group invoked during rituals, representing guidance and blessings passed through generations.[27] (4) Ancestors honored during the ritual, particularly in the context of placing the hand on the south side of the altar.[28] (5) Ancestors or divine spirits being honored and whose blessings are sought during the sacrificial rites.[29]
From: Amarakoshodghatana of Kshirasvamin (study)
(1) Kshirasvamin mentions the terms tata, janaka, and pita as synonyms for father, indicating familial roles.[31]
From: Abhinaya-darpana (English)
(1) Referred to as Pitri, showing this relationship is done with the right hand as Shikhara, indicating the father or a son-in-law.[32]
From: Vivekachudamani
(1) A male parent who is seeking to free himself from debts.[33]
The concept of Father in local and regional sources
The keyphrase "Father" signifies a familial bond, representing the central male figure in the narrative as perceived by a child, indicating a nurturing and protective role within the family dynamic.
From: Village Folk-tales of Ceylon (Sri Lanka), vol. 1-3
(1) The man of the story, addressed by the little one, suggesting a familial relationship.[34]