Significance of Himavat
Synonyms: Himalaya, Maheshwar, Mountain, Himadri
In Dutch: Himavat; In Finnish: Himavat; In Spanish: Himavat
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Himavat'
Himavat in Buddhism symbolizes a legendary mountain region representing the pursuit of higher truths and renunciation, often associated with the Himalayas, and is sacred for its connection to the story of Vessantara and his family.
From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) The legendary mountain region where ascetics and enlightened beings dwell, symbolizing the pursuit of higher truth and renunciation.[1] (2) The sacred mountain range described in relation to the forest where Vessantara and his family lived.[2]
From: Blue Annals (deb-ther sngon-po)
(1) Another name for the region associated with the Himalayas, known as the Abode of Snows.[3]
Hindu concept of 'Himavat'
Himavat in Hinduism symbolizes the revered Himalayas, encompassing spiritual significance as Parvati's father, a haven for ascetics, and a majestic realm of biodiversity, connecting divine presence and transformative insights within its mountains.
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) A mountain range where the Salmali tree is located, representing a natural setting rich in biodiversity.[4] (2) A metaphor describing Ghatotkacha's formidable presence, likening him to the prince of mountains.[5] (3) A region or mountain associated with ascetic practices and the dwelling of many Rishis.[6] (4) The highest peak to which the ark was tied after the flood, symbolizing safety and stability.[7] (5) The great mountain range where Arjuna performed his austerities and sought spiritual insight.[8]
From: Shiva Purana
(1) The lord of mountains, who is approached by Mena to listen to her concerns regarding the marriage of her daughter.[9] (2) Parvati's father, who, along with Mena, comes to welcome her home.[10] (3) The lord of mountains who initiated the rite of marriage.[11] (4) The father of Parvati, whom she wants Shiva to approach for marriage, also representing a significant figure in terms of family and tradition.[12] (5) The lord of mountains and Parvati's father, who is approached for permission to allow his daughter to perform penance in the forest.[13]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki
(1) The Lord of the Himalayas, who is the father of the river Ganga and Uma, and referred to as the treasury of all precious metals.[14] (2) The highest of the mountains, where Hanuman journeys to gather the medicinal herbs.[15] (3) A specific area that is part of the journey to search for Ravana and Sita.[16]
From: Brahmanda Purana
(1) A region where Rakshasas, Pishacas, and Yakshas reside, denoting a connection with darker forces.[17]
From: Markandeya Purana
(1) The lord among mountains where the gods raised their hymn to seek the goddess's aid.[18]
From: Linga Purana
(1) A prominent snow-covered mountain situated to the south of Meru.[19]
From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)
(1) A great mountain, known as the spiritual preceptor of Shiva and the home of the Vidyadharas.[20] (2) A celebrated mountain haunted by divine beings like Kinnaras, Gandharvas, and Vidyadharas, and regarded as a monarch among hills.[21] (3) A renowned mountain chain famous across the three worlds, regarded for its immense peaks and magical properties.[22]
From: Kena upanishad (Madhva commentary)
(1) Associated with the descriptions of purity, luminescence, and the divine femininity embodied in Uma.[23]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) The mountain range where the Ganga is said to be observed for the first time, used here to illustrate the concept of naming after a source.[24]
Jain concept of 'Himavat'
In Jainism, Himavat is interpreted as a mountain featured in a dialogue between a cock and hen, symbolizing natural elements and their interconnectedness within Jain philosophical narratives.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) A mountain mentioned in relation to the cock and hen's conversation.[25]