Significance of Image

According to Dharmashastra, the term "image" pertains to statues or representations, especially of deities that are placed in temples. The text indicates that there are significant consequences for causing damage to these images, highlighting their importance within the religious context. The protection of these representations underscores their sacred status in the practice of worship and the legal implications surrounding their preservation.1

Synonyms: Picture, Illustration, Representation, Portrait, Scene, Likeness

In Finnish: Kuva; In Dutch: Afbeelding

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

Buddhist concept of 'Image'

Buddhism Books

In Buddhism, "Image" signifies mental constructs that distort perception, deviating from the genuine essence of reality. Such images illustrate how the mind can misinterpret or misrepresent authentic experiences and truths.

Significance of Images in Mahayana (major branch of Buddhism):

Mahayana Books

From: Lankavatara Sutra

(1) Conceptual or perceptual phenomena that arise in the mind which do not reflect the true nature of reality.^[1]

Mahayana is a major branch of Buddhism focusing on the path of a Bodhisattva (spiritual aspirants/ enlightened beings). Extant literature is vast and primarely composed in the Sanskrit language. There are many sutras of which some of the earliest are the various Prajnaparamita sutras.

Hindu concept of 'Image'

Hinduism Books

In Hinduism, an Image signifies statues or representations of deities in temples, integral to worship. Damaging these sacred images incurs severe penalties, emphasizing their revered status in religious practices.

Significance of Images in Dharmashastra (religious law):

Dharmashastra Books

From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi

(1) Statues or representations, particularly of deities, installed in temples, with severe penalties for damage to such images.^[2]

Dharmashastra contains the instructions (shastra) regarding religious conduct of livelihood (dharma), ceremonies, jurisprudence (study of law) and more. It is categorized as smriti, an important and authoritative selection of books dealing with the Hindu lifestyle.

Significance of Images in Purana and Itihasa (epic history):

Purana Books

From: Garuda Purana

(1) A representation of a deity used as an object of worship.^[3]

The Purana refers to Sanskrit literature preserving ancient India’s vast cultural history, including historical legends, religious ceremonies, various arts and sciences. The eighteen mahapuranas total over 400,000 shlokas (metrical couplets) and date to at least several centuries BCE.

Significance of Images in Vyakarana (Sanskrit grammar):

Vyakarana Books

From: Vakyapadiya of Bhartrihari

(1) The representation or concept that is being compared and understood through the lens of diversified connections.^[4]

Vyakarana refers to Sanskrit grammar and represents one of the six additional sciences (vedanga) to be studied along with the Vedas. Vyakarana concerns itself with the rules of Sanskrit grammar and linguistic analysis in order to establish the correct context of words and sentences.

The concept of Image in local and regional sources

History Books

The keyphrase "Image" relates to the text as it signifies a visual representation that communicates meaning or emotion, highlighting its importance in conveying ideas and feelings effectively.

Significance of Images in India history and geography:

From: Triveni Journal

(1) A representation or visual depiction that conveys meaning or emotion.^[5]

Plural form: Images.

Last Updated: 25 September, 2024