Significance of Hiding

Hiding has different interpretations in Vaishnavism and Theravada traditions. In Vaishnavism, it describes the act of mahishis concealing themselves, symbolizing a form of devotion or shyness. Conversely, in Theravada Buddhism, hiding pertains to the act of concealing monks' possessions, which is viewed as an offense against the established training rules. These definitions highlight the contrasting cultural contexts and nuances of the concept of hiding within these two religious frameworks.1
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Synonyms: Concealing, Covering, Obscuring, Lurking

In Spanish: Ocultación; In Dutch: Verstoppen; In Finnish: Piilossa

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Buddhist concept of 'Hiding'

Buddhism Books

In Buddhism, "Hiding" signifies the offense of concealing monks' possessions, which violates their training rules, emphasizing the importance of transparency and communal respect within the monastic discipline.

Significance in Theravada (major branch of Buddhism):
Theravada Books

From: Vinaya Pitaka (1): Bhikkhu-vibhanga (the analysis of Monks’ rules)

(1) The act of concealing items belonging to monks, regarded as an offence under the training rules.[1]

Theravada is a major branch of Buddhism having the the Pali canon (tipitaka) as their canonical literature, which includes the vinaya-pitaka (monastic rules), the sutta-pitaka (Buddhist sermons) and the abhidhamma-pitaka (philosophy and psychology).

Hindu concept of 'Hiding'

Hinduism Books

Hiding in Hinduism symbolizes the concealment of mahishis, reflecting themes of devotion and shyness. This act may illustrate deeper spiritual or emotional dynamics within the practice and beliefs of Hinduism.

Significance in Vaishnavism (Vaishava dharma):
Vaishnavism Books

From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)

(1) The act of the mahishis concealing themselves, suggesting a dynamic of devotion or shyness.[2]

From: Chaitanya Bhagavata

(1) A state of concealment or lack of revelation regarding one’s true nature or feelings, suggesting an avoidance of authenticity.[3]

Vaishnava or vaishnavism (vaishnavism) represents a tradition of Hinduism worshipping Vishnu as the supreme Lord. Similar to the Shaktism and Shaivism traditions, Vaishnavism also developed as an individual movement, famous for its exposition of the dashavatara (‘ten avatars of Vishnu’).