Significance of Head
Synonyms: Crown, Top, Leader, Chief, Director, Headpiece, Forefront, Commander, Principal, Skull, Cranium, Dome, Pate
In Malay: Kepala; In Italian: Testa; In Dutch: Hoofd; In Finnish: Pää; In Spanish: Cabeza; In German: Kopf; In Swedish: Huvud; In French: Tête; In Portugese: Cabeça; In Polish: Głowa
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Head'
In Buddhism, "Head" signifies sacrifice, representing the highest form of giving. It's offered by bodhisattvas for enlightenment, symbolizing leadership and supreme knowledge. The text also presents it as a body part and a symbol of violence or test of knowledge.
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) The Bodhisattva offered this to his enemies.[1] (2) The bodhisattva gives their head, or shiras, along with their body, eyes, bones, and marrow as if they were ordinary bits of grass or pieces of wood.[2] (3) The monster had ten heads, contributing to its frightening appearance and intimidation.[3] (4) The head is where the bodhisattvas should be placed, as they should be placed at the head of the three classes of shaikshas, but that is not suitable.[4]
From: Akshayamatinirdesha [english]
(1) This is the best part of the body, and the bodhisattvas give it away to attain the highest knowledge.[5]
From: Mahavastu (great story)
(1) The text highlights the act of causing severe injury to living beings, specifically mentioning the crushing of heads, indicating a violent and destructive act.[6]
From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) This refers to the body part that was used to test the sage's knowledge of differentiating between a man's and a woman's, based on physical characteristics.[7] (2) This is the part of the fish that is given to one of the otters after the jackal divides it, as described in the text.[8]
From: Vinaya Pitaka (3): Khandhaka
(1) The text mentions the head, according to the provided text.[9]
From: Maha Buddhavamsa—The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) A gift that the Bodhisatta makes, the top-most part of the body, in order to become a supreme one in all the world, and it is one of the various kinds of danas with their respective objects.[10]
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) This refers to the leader or foremost, as mentioned in the text.[11]
Hindu concept of 'Head'
In Hinduism, "Head" signifies various aspects: a connection to the mind and Guru, a focus of massage for health, a symbol of importance, a site for rituals and meditation, and a location for the deity. It also relates to leadership, architectural culmination, and medical conditions, highlighting its significance in physical, spiritual, and societal contexts.
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) The head is the specific body part targeted by Lord Krishna's punch when he attacked the demon in the text.[12] (2) A part of Shankhasura's body used to strike Lord Vishnu on the chest in the event described. [13] (3) It is the upper part of the body, often adorned with ornaments to enhance beauty and signify cultural importance.[14] (4) The uppermost part of the body, containing the brain and sensory organs, that was forcefully removed from the demon by the divine Vishnu.[15] (5) There is a crown that is worn on the head according to the details provided.[16]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) The head is where the Lord places the dust taken from His mother's feet, possibly symbolizing respect and submission.[17] (2) The provided material indicates that his head possessed beautiful curly black hair, suggesting a striking and attractive physical feature, contributing to an overall impression.[18] (3) The uppermost part of the body, specifically the location where a fragrant medicated oil was applied in a ritualistic action.[19] (4) The uppermost part of the body, used as a place to put peacock feathers.[20] (5) This refers to the part of Gadadhara's body where the Lord placed His lotus feet as an act of grace.[21]
From: Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu
(1) A part of the body that receives gentle massage to promote relaxation and comfort, aiding a tired friend in achieving restful sleep.[22] (2) The uppermost part of an entity, upon which a peacock feather is placed as a decorative element in the description.[23]
From: Tiruvaymoli (Thiruvaimozhi): English translation
(1) Head is praiseworthy, which bows down in reverence and thus, locks which impart beauty to the head, correspond to the reverential attitude.[24]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Griffith)
(1) The woman gazed upon the head, indicating focused observation and emotional connection, indicating the scene.[25] (2) The body part that was severed from the giant, marking the end of the battle and the giant's death.[26] (3) The word 'head' refers to the part of the body that contains the brain.[27] (4) The character's physique was imposing, contributing to his impressive stature.[28]
From: Garuda Purana
(1) The text mentions that the preceptor should place it on the head of the disciple, highlighting the significance of the head in the ritual.[29] (2) Head is the part of the body that is pressed on.[30] (3) This is the head of the deity, and is part of the description of the deity, and is mentioned in the context of the creation and the various aspects of the deity.[31] (4) This is a part of the body that can be affected by erysipelas, and the disease may spread from the head to the breast or vice versa.[32]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) The head is mentioned as one of the locations where ashes are applied during the ritual, with specific mantras and instructions for application.[33] (2) The head is a location to be meditated upon, with the Devata Dyau residing there, as detailed in the Arthanyasa.[34]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) The text refers to living alone and observing the vow of taciturnity, with one's "head" shaved clean.[35] (2) The head is a body part of Citrasena that was cut off during the battle.[36]
From: Brihaddharma Purana (abridged)
(1) Siva promised to hold Ganga on this when she goes down to the earth in the form of a river, to reassure her and address her concerns about the shock of her fall from heaven.[37] (2) Siva indicated that Ganga's place would be on his "head", explaining that his heart was occupied by Yoga, his left side by Sakti, and his right side by sons and daughters, leaving his "head" as the only available space.[38]
From: Journal of Ayurveda and Integrated Medical Sciences
(1) The head, ears, and foot, and applying oil to them is a must to lead a healthy life, and it is showing the importance of massage to these parts of the body.[39] (2) Head is a body region that is affected by the skin condition.[40] (3) This is where the pituitary gland is located.[41] (4) Head is the position held by one of the authors of the article, who is affiliated with the Department of Panchakarma at S.V.M Ayurvedic medical College.[42] (5) This is a part of the body, that may experience tremors, as a symptom of Ardita.[43]
From: International Research Journal of Ayurveda and Yoga
(1) It is where Dosha accumulation begins, ascending through visual channels into the eye.[44] (2) It is the main part of the body and other organs are its branches, so it controls every system.[45] (3) Diseases of this are prevented and treated by Nasya karma.[46]
From: Journal of Ayurvedic and Herbal Medicine
(1) This denotes the leader or director of a department within an academic institution, responsible for overseeing its operations and activities.[47]
From: Brahma Sutras (Shankaracharya)
(1) The text mentions that a blow to this part of the body with a club or the like can produce the state of senselessness, distinguishing it from sleep, which is caused by weariness.[48] (2) This refers to a specific part of the Vaishvanara Self, which is a component of the aggregate form, and a subject of meditation.[49] (3) The specific kind of cup referenced in an analogy to clarify a conceptual point.[50]
From: Brahma Sutras (Ramanuja)
(1) A way of departing that must be understood to belong to him who knows, according to the text, in agreement with the text relative to the hundred and one veins.[51] (2) This refers to the head, as the cup with its mouth below and its bottom above is the head.[52]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad Bhashya Vartika
(1) Considered the principal and most important limb among human organs and is a characterization of faith in relation to vijnanamaya.[53]
From: Manasara (English translation)
(1) The head, referred to as shiras or mastaka, is a component of the building whose height is determined as a fraction of the total height.[54] (2) The height of the head, or shiras, should be two parts when the height of the base is one part and the neck is one part, outlining its proportional dimensions.[55] (3) The head (shirat) should be twice the height of the neck, which equates to two parts, adding to the proportional distribution of the structure's height.[56] (4) Refers to the uppermost part of the building structure, indicating the culmination of architectural elements.[57]
From: Satapatha-brahmana
(1) The head is represented by three bricks placed in front, fitted to the position of the head, as part of the arrangement of the deceased's body.[58] (2) The superior element formed from the concentrated excellence and life-sap of the seven persons, denoting a position of importance.[59] (3) The head, in the context of creation, represents the first part born of an animal, symbolizing initiation and leadership.[60]
From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)
(1) This is the part of the snake that was in the tail, and was blind and caused the snake to go into a fire.[61] (2) This is what the lion's head changes into after it is cut in half by the Princess.[62]
From: Paduka-panchaka (the five-fold footstool)
(1) The Guru is in the Hamsa in the head, implying a connection to the mind.[63]
From: Yoga-sutras (with Vyasa and Vachaspati Mishra)
(1) The sphere of action of the Udana.[64]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) A well-known part of the body referred to in the traditions of washing and touching with water.[65]
From: Hiranyakesi-grihya-sutra
(1) The hair is tied in one knot. The text states that the individual has their hair tied in one knot. This is how the hair is presented.[66]
From: Hayanaratna: The Jewel of Annual Astrology
(1) The rest of the signs, excluding those mentioned, are known to rise with their heads, representing a specific characteristic.[67]
Jain concept of 'Head'
In Jainism, "Head" signifies both the repercussions of actions, symbolized by the head's fall, and leadership within the order. The head of the order, demonstrates care by providing nourishment to ascetics breaking their fast.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) It was found in the bamboo-thicket, leading the prince to believe he had killed someone rich from subduing magic arts.[68] (2) Gradually arched, rivaled in appearance an umbrella with its face turned downwards.[69] (3) The head falls on the ground, which shows the consequences of the actions and events.[70] (4) The head of the order is the one who asked the ascetics what they wished for breaking their fast, and he brought them rice pudding.[71]
The concept of Head in local and regional sources
"Head" has multiple meanings. It's the source of phlegm and a disease cause, symbolizing actions, devotion, and sacrifice. It represents the Kundalini's reach and New York's importance. Figuratively, it elevates the letter H and is the target of violence in the narrative.
From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda
(1) The thing that should not touch the dust, as mentioned in the text.[72] (2) The part of the body that the Kundalini reaches, when the vision is unobstructed and one realizes the Atman.[73] (3) New York is described as this of the country, indicating its importance.[74] (4) This is a reference to the actions, and the reverence, and the devotion, and the love expressed within the narrative.[75]
From: Triveni Journal
(1) The head is a sacrifice to love, and the verses suggest that it is given up in exchange for the Beloved.[76] (2) The head of the victim is described.[77] (3) A metaphorical term that elevates the significance of the letter H to a position of authority.[78]
From: Folklore of the Santal Parganas
(1) The specific part of the body targeted for a fatal blow, as instructed by a cunning animal to eliminate a dangerous threat.[79] (2) The bonga girl was struck on the head by Dukhu, and she said she would depart for good if he hit her on the head.[80]
From: History of Science in South Asia
(1) The head is the anatomical seat of phlegm, one of the four essential elements in Menecrates’ formulation, and is considered one of the causes of diseases.[81]
The concept of Head in scientific sources
"Head" appears in multiple contexts. It refers to the metatarsal area, the top of the neck, the anatomical location of injuries, and the area vulnerable to airbag deployment. It also relates to the cabbage plant, the upper body, male anatomy, and an area of discomfort. Additionally, it is mentioned in the context of a private body's information officer.
From: The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences
(1) This is the part of the body that sits on top of the neck, and its movement is measured during cervical range of motion assessment.[82] (2) This is a part of the body that can be seriously injured by the force of an airbag deployment.[83]
From: African Journal of Primary Health Care and Family Medicine
(1) This was the most common anatomical location of injuries sustained in the study, suggesting an intent to kill or do serious bodily harm.[84] (2) This is a specific anatomical area where participants reported experiencing discomfort, a frequently cited location in the study's findings, and a part of the body.[85]
From: Journal of Medicinal Plants for Economic Development
(1) This refers to the central part of the cabbage plant, which farmers often protect when applying their homemade insecticides.[86]
From: South African Family Practice
(1) The upper part of the body, and headache can be a symptom of a migraine.[87]
From: South African Journal of Physiotherapy
(1) This refers to the metatarsal heads, which are the area where the toes flex, and are lifted clear of the ground.[88]
From: South African Journal of HIV Medicine
(1) The head of a private body has to duly delegate a person to fulfil the function of the information officer, and they have specific responsibilities within the framework of the Act.[89]
From: Onderstepoort Journal of Veterinary Research
(1) The head is mentioned as a part of the male specimen, with reference to a figure, suggesting a visual representation of this particular feature.[90]
From: International Journal of Pharmacology
(1) The capsomeric protein shells of bacteriophages that enclose the genetic material, with specific dimensions measured in TEM analysis.[91]
From: Sustainability Journal (MDPI)
(1) The provided data discusses the effect of "Heads" on components of seed yield, suggesting that "Heads" have a compensatory (negative) effect on other components such as seed mass.[92] (2) Head was selected as the comparison object in both non-cavitation and cavitation conditions, and the CFD values of the head have a large error with the test values in extreme part load conditions.[93] (3) Head is the part of the human body that is being studied for its movement during a crash test, and its displacement is measured to understand the impact of collisions.[94] (4) It is the anterior part of the shrimp body, typically removed during processing, and a source of proteins, amino acids, chitin, and polyunsaturated fatty acids.[95]
From: International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health (MDPI)
(1) Head is a body area that includes sensations reported in the ears, forehead, eyes, eyebrows, mouth, and lower face, where the majority of reported sensations are in reaction to sounds.[96] (2) Head is mentioned as a target in relation to cannabis dependence, suggesting its vulnerability to this factor. The head is a focus of the study in relation to cannabis exposure.[97]
Classical concept of 'Head'
From: The Liturgy of Funerary Offerings
(1) The heads of the followers of Set are presented as an offering, represented symbolically by the Sera goose in the context of the ritual.[98] (2) The head is mentioned in the formula associated with Osiris Unas, suggesting a symbolic or literal offering or restoration of the head within the context of the ritual, involving a head that is received.[99] (3) This, along with the bones and mouth, has been brought into a state of ceremonial purity through the ceremonies of purification, preparing the new body for the KA.[100]
From: The Odyssey of Homer (English translation)
(1) Ulysses set his helmet on his comely head, well wrought with a crest of horse-hair that nodded menacingly above it, preparing for battle.[101] (2) The part of the body containing the brain, which Eurymachus jokes is the source of light for Ulysses.[102]
From: Aesop's Fables (English translation)
(1) When its head was knocked off, out came a stream of gold, which the Carpenter quickly picked up.[103]
From: The Iliad of Homer (English translation)
(1) A body part severed from the neck of a figure, and sent whirling over the crowd as though it had been a ball.[104]
From: The History of Herodotus
(1) The art of medicine among them is distributed thus: each physician is a physician of one disease and of no more; and the whole country is full of physicians, for some profess themselves to be physicians of the eyes, others of the head, others of the teeth, others of the affections of the stomach, and others of the more obscure ailments.[105]
From: Egypt Through The Stereoscope
(1) The heads of the statues are beautifully wrought, exhibiting an expression of kindness, benevolence, calm, and oriental indolence, which are all associated with royalty.[106]
From: The Book of the Dead
(1) This is a body part that was given back after being cut off, and it should not be carried away, representing identity, vitality, and protection from harm.[107]