Significance of Forest-tree
The concept of Forest-tree is interpreted across various traditions and philosophies. In Jainism, it symbolizes nourishment, while in Vaishnavism, it pertains to the lush trees by riverbanks. The Purana views Forest-trees as essential to biodiversity and symbolizes interconnectedness in nature. Theravada uses the metaphor to illustrate unity and resilience. Additionally, in Indian history, it specifically refers to the Shorea robusta tree. Across these perspectives, Forest-tree represents strength, beauty, and a connection to the environment.
Synonyms: Woodland, Grove, Thicket, Jungle, Bush
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Forest-tree'
The Forest-tree in Buddhism symbolizes wisdom and spiritual guardianship, represents nature's resilience, signifies personal ownership and resource utilization, and serves as a metaphor for unity and strength among allies in overcoming challenges.
From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) A reference to nature and its imagery, evoking strength and resilience, used in the context of creating something unattainable like a strong sun-shade.[1] (2) The setting where the lazy fellow chose to rest, leading to the eventual complications in their plans.[2] (3) A symbol of wisdom and perhaps a reference to a spiritual presence or guardian in the narrative.[3] (4) A metaphor used to illustrate the strength found in unity among friends or allies as demonstrated in the story.[4]
From: Vinaya Pitaka (1): Bhikkhu-vibhanga (the analysis of Monks’ rules)
(1) A tree that is owned by individuals, which can be felled or utilized.[5]
Hindu concept of 'Forest-tree'
In Hinduism, Forest-tree symbolizes nature's beauty, environment's influence, selflessness, and interconnectedness, reflecting a philosophy of altruism and strength through diverse flora that enriches ecosystems, as noted in the experiences of King Suketumat.
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) Large, woody plants that form a rich habitat and symbolize strength, endurance, and the natural world's interconnectedness.[6] (2) The trees found within the forests, which contribute to the diversity of flora and ecosystems.[7] (3) The trees that grow in a forest, which are impacted by environmental conditions such as wind.[8]
From: Bhagavata Purana
(1) The trees that Krishna praised for their selflessness and sacrifice for the benefit of others, highlighting a philosophy of altruism.[9]
From: Padma Purana
(1) Various types of trees observed by king Suketumat during his journey in the forest, symbolizing nature's beauty.[10]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) The trees present in the vicinity, contributing to the lush environment of the riverbank.[11]
Jain concept of 'Forest-tree'
In Jainism, the Forest-tree symbolizes sustenance, likening Sagara's nourishment to a tree that draws life-giving water from a canal, illustrating interconnectedness and growth through spiritual and natural resources.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) A metaphor comparing Sagara's nourishment to a forest-tree drawing water from a canal.[12]
The concept of Forest-tree in local and regional sources
Forest-tree encompasses the types of trees found in forests, particularly highlighting Shorea robusta, which was chosen for constructing the travellers' shed, showcasing its significance in regional wood usage.
From: Village Folk-tales of Ceylon (Sri Lanka), vol. 1-3
(1) Refers to the various kinds of trees in the forest, one of which was selected to be used for building the travellers' shed.[13]
From: Folklore of the Santal Parganas
(1) A forest tree, Shorea robusta.[14]
The concept of Forest-tree in scientific sources
Forest-tree denotes a variety of woody plants studied for their connections with VAM fungi, highlighting their ecological roles within the forest ecosystem of Jabalpur, as indicated by regional sources.
From: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
(1) A diverse group of woody plants examined in the study for their association with VAM fungi, reflecting the ecological dynamics of the forest ecosystem in Jabalpur.[15]