Significance of Funeral pyres
The term Funeral pyre refers to a ceremonial structure primarily used for the cremation of the deceased across various cultural and religious contexts. In Buddhism and Jainism, it symbolizes both loyalty and grief, while in South Asia, it highlights societal customs surrounding death. The Funeral pyre features prominently in rituals and narratives, representing respect for the deceased and serving as a significant focal point in the mourning process. This structure embodies traditions that honor the cycle of life and serve as a testament to cultural practices associated with death and remembrance.
Synonyms: Ceremonial fire., Burning pyre, Funeral fire, Burial pyre
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Funeral pyres'
In Buddhism, a funeral pyre symbolizes the cremation process, serving as a structure for burning the deceased, significant in various contexts, including reverence for the Buddha and honoring deceased figures like kings or monks.
From: Maha Buddhavamsa—The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) The structure made of sandalwood where Venerable Moggallana was cremated, attended by both devas and humans.[1] (2) A structure for burning the deceased, which Prince Dighavu utilized to cremate his parents.[2] (3) A structure built of various kinds of scented wood upon which the body of the Buddha was placed for cremation.[3] (4) A structure built to burn the body of the deceased, particularly significant in the cremation of the Buddha.[4] (5) The structure made from scented wood where the body of a Universal Monarch is cremated, symbolizing the final tribute.[5]
From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) A structure for burning a deceased person's body during the funeral ceremony.[6] (2) The place where bodies are burned and signifies the death and succession concerns of the king.[7]
From: Vinaya Pitaka (3): Khandhaka
(1) A structure where the bodies of Dighiti and his wife were placed for cremation after being executed by Brahmadatta's order.[8]
From: Mahavamsa
(1) A structure built by King Uttiya for the cremation of the thera Mahinda using sweet-smelling wood.[9]
From: Vinaya (3): The Cullavagga
(1) A structure used for the cremation of bodies, significant in the context of time periods for building supervision.[10]
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) Structure made of scented wood prepared by the king to honor the bear after its death.[11] (2) A traditional method used for cremating bodies, mentioned in relation to the main wife of the king throwing herself upon it.[12]
From: Apadana commentary (Atthakatha)
(1) A large structure assembled for burning the deceased, used metaphorically by the king to test the loyalty of his soldiers.[13] (2) The structure to which Padumacchadaniya offered lotus flowers in reverence for the Glorious One Vipassi who had entered parinibbana.[14]
Hindu concept of 'Funeral pyres'
The funeral pyre in Hinduism symbolizes the ritualistic practice of cremation, representing the cycle of life and death, deep grief, and the honor bestowed on the deceased, often intertwined with themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and asceticism.
From: Skanda Purana
(1) A structure for holding a body during cremation, significant in the context of Sumitra's ultimate fate.[15] (2) The structure where Devala's wife performed the act of self-immolation alongside her husband.[16] (3) A ceremonial structure for burning the dead, as suggested for the cremation of the sage’s family members.[17] (4) Structures used for cremation, symbolizing the end of life and the cycle of death that occurs during the cosmic annihilation.[18] (5) A fire used for cremation that represents death and is deemed inauspicious in the narrative.[19]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) Structures set on fire to cremate the bodies of the deceased, central to the funeral rites described.[20] (2) A structure on which Bhishma's body was placed and burned, representing the rituals of death and honoring the deceased.[21] (3) A structure made for the purpose of cremating a corpse, adorned with jewels and gems in this context.[22] (4) The structure prepared by the maiden for her self-immolation, symbolizing her resolve and desperation.[23] (5) A structure prepared for the cremation of Kicaka, which Bhima approached to rescue Krishna.[24]
From: Shiva Purana
(1) A symbol of death and mourning that becomes a physical manifestation of Vrinda's sacrifice and loss.[25] (2) The ashes of a funeral pyre that Shiva is said to wear, highlighting his connection to death and asceticism.[26] (3) A construction used for the cremation of the deceased, associated with the queen's attempt to end her life.[27] (4) A reference indicating the paradox of ash from a funeral pyre being considered unholy, yet holy when associated with Shiva.[28] (5) The structure prepared by Suvarca for the ritual cremation, reflecting her intentions to join her husband.[29]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki
(1) The structure upon which the king's body was cremated, where Bharata mourned and spoke of his loss.[30] (2) A structure made of wood where the body of the king is laid to be cremated.[31] (3) The ceremonial fire that Kaushalya is anticipated to ascend in mourning for her son Indrajita, symbolizing ultimate grief and sacrifice.[32] (4) The constructed platform of dry wood, including sacred sandalwood, where Bali’s body will be cremated.[33] (5) The pyre Hanuman considers preparing for himself as a means of entering death if he cannot find Sita.[34]
From: Bhagavata Purana
(1) The ceremonial structure where Prithu's body is placed after his death, signifying the end of his earthly existence.[35] (2) The symbolic act of cremation which denotes the cycle of life and death, and the commitment to follow a loved one.[36] (3) Places where the bodies of the bereaved Yadavas and their women were cremated in sorrow after the destruction of their clan.[37]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) The place where Rambha's body is cremated, leading to the birth of his son Mahisha.[38] (2) The burning platform used for cremation, symbolizing the honor and respect given to the deceased.[39]
From: Padma Purana
(1) The ceremonial structure on which Vrinda was cremated, signifying the end of her mortal existence.[40] (2) The structure (usually made of wood) on which a body is cremated.[41]
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) The place where the chandalas immolated themselves, illustrating the tragic fate of these individuals.[42] (2) A structure for burning a dead body as part of a funeral rite, associated with the self-immolation of the Chandala king.[43]
From: Agni Purana
(1) A structure for burning a deceased body, with specific procedures outlined for its use and the presence of relatives.[44] (2) The structure on which the deceased is cremated; the process around it is filled with specific rituals and should be approached with certain reverence.[45]
From: Markandeya Purana (Study)
(1) The traditional fire upon which Indrasena ascended to follow her husband in death.[46]
From: Harivamsha Purana
(1) A structure for burning a dead body, which was prepared by Sagara's wife for her husband.[47]
From: Brahma Purana
(1) A ceremonial structure for burning a deceased body, which becomes a significant theme in the transformation of Narada.[48]
From: Garuda Purana
(1) One of the places where a person bitten by a serpent does not survive.[49]
From: Markandeya Purana
(1) The site where Indrasena chooses to enter after embracing her husband's body, signifying her loyalty and sorrow.[50]
From: Linga Purana
(1) A site used for performing specific rites associated with death, often in connection with invoking Aghoresha.[51]
From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)
(1) The location of the burning ground where Yaugandharayana encounters supernatural beings.[52] (2) The structure prepared for cremating the deceased, which in this story was used for Devasoma after he passed away.[53] (3) A platform for burning the dead, which Kumudika ascended in supposed grief over Vikramasimha's apparent death.[54] (4) Structures used for cremating bodies, providing light in the darkness for the king.[55] (5) The structure built by Viravara to honor his deceased children in a traditional manner following their sacrifice.[56]
From: Harsha-charita
(1) A structure made of wood for burning a dead body, symbolizing the finality of death.[57] (2) The structure where the deceased king's body is burned, symbolizing respect and transition to the afterlife.[58]
From: Harshacharita (socio-cultural Study)
(1) A structure used for the cremation of a body, on which the deceased is placed and set on fire, often associated with the practice of sati.[59] (2) A structure made of wood where the dead body is cremated, traditionally located on the bank of a river.[60]
From: Bhishma Charitra
(1) The ceremonial fires for the fallen warriors from both sides, representing respect and mourning.[61]
From: Malatimadhava (study)
(1) Places associated with death and cremation, contributing to the overall atmosphere of fear in the narrative.[62]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) A platform used for cremating the deceased, indicating a ritualistic context.[63]
From: Prem Sagar (English translation)
(1) A ritual used for Satrajit’s last rites that signifies respect and the deep sorrow of the bereaved.[64]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) A structure used for cremating bodies, associated with impurity and necessitating bathing upon contact.[65]
From: Chandogya Upanishad (english Translation)
(1) A structure on which a body is placed to be burned during a funeral, representing the traditional practice of disposing of the dead.[66]
From: Dasarupaka (critical study)
(1) A structure for burning the dead, emphasized as a significant cultural practice in the context of mourning and sacrifice.[67]
Jain concept of 'Funeral pyres'
In Jainism, the Funeral pyre symbolizes significant ritual practices, including cremation of Masters and important figures. It represents grief, transitions, and divine structures, reflecting emotional and spiritual themes such as loss, honor, and remorse.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) The place where Shauri is taken, symbolizing a transition and possibly a test of courage.[68] (2) A metaphor representing the self-immolation of the wives after killing the goldsmith, symbolizing their remorse and despair.[69] (3) The structure created by Shakra for the Master's body, prepared with great care using sandalwood and other materials.[70] (4) The structure that Vasudeva built from wood near the cemetery, where he burned an unclaimed corpse to simulate his death.[71] (5) The place where King Shrivijaya prepares to burn Sutara after believing she has died, signifying his deep sorrow.[72]
The concept of Funeral pyres in local and regional sources
The term "Funeral pyre" encompasses various cultural and religious practices surrounding death and cremation, symbolizing sacrifice, devotion, and familial bonds in Hindu traditions, often linked to personal crises and societal expectations regarding mortality.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) Indications of mass fatalities from the battle, creating a somber and dark imagery in the narrative.[73] (2) Constructed by Vrinda when she discovers Vishnu's deception, leading to her self-immolation.[74] (3) Refers to the traditional Hindu practice of cremation; Perindevamma expresses a wish for her elder son to light it, symbolizing her acceptance of mortality and the importance of her familial bonds.[75] (4) A structure for burning a dead body as part of Hindu funeral practices, referencing the final rituals performed.[76] (5) A structure for burning a dead body, representing the profound experiences of mercy related to life and death that the speaker has observed.[77]
From: Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints
(1) A traditional Hindu platform for cremating the dead, representing ultimate sacrifice and devotion, as referenced in the analogy of a woman's willingness to follow her husband in death.[78] (2) A structure on which a body is cremated, which Sujan’s wife intended to use for her self-immolation.[79] (3) The structure on which the corpse of the Brahman was placed and set on fire by Nama.[80]
From: Folklore of the Santal Parganas
(1) A structure for burning a corpse, which the woman mentions in her plea.[81] (2) The structure erected for the cremation of the Raja's body, which the Potter uses to conceal himself.[82]
From: Village Folk-tales of Ceylon (Sri Lanka), vol. 1-3
(1) The place where the couple's misunderstanding leads them as they are mistakenly thought to be dead.[83] (2) A burning structure for cremation, which signifies the death of the woman's parents as she learns from a city man.[84] (3) A heap of firewood on which a dead body is placed for cremation.[85] (4) A structure constructed by the Prince for self-immolation reflecting themes of despair and societal customs surrounding death.[86]
From: The travels of Fa-Hian (400 A.D.)
(1) A large structure made of wood used for cremation, specifically built for the eminent Sramana.[87]