Significance of Impassable ocean
The term "Impassable ocean" in Purana signifies a formidable obstacle encountered by characters in various narratives. It reflects both a literal and metaphorical challenge, encompassing vast and treacherous bodies of water that impede progress. The ocean symbolizes significant struggles, such as the battlefield faced by Karna or the seemingly insurmountable barriers experienced by figures like Hanuman. Additionally, it represents the tumultuous journey of life filled with challenges, highlighting Sita's mental struggles during her rescue mission and the daunting task of crossing the sea.
Synonyms: Unfathomable sea, Boundless sea
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Impassable ocean'
In Hinduism, the "Impassable ocean" symbolizes various significant challenges, including Sita's mental obstacles, the daunting battlefield, and the vast ocean surrounding Lanka, representing the difficulties encountered in life and spiritual journeys.
From: Ramayana of Valmiki
(1) A physical obstacle in Sita's mind, symbolizing the difficulties involved in crossing the sea during the rescue mission.[1] (2) Symbolic of a significant challenge or obstacle that seems impossible to overcome.[2] (3) A vast sea regarded as an insurmountable barrier to crossing, reflecting the significant challenge faced by Hanuman and others.[3] (4) A reference to the vast and dangerous body of water that presents a significant obstacle to the characters' plans in the story.[4] (5) Refers to the ocean that Rama's army was able to cross, which was previously thought impossible to cross.[5]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) A metaphor for the challenging and deadly battlefield that Karna and his allies are facing.[6]
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) Symbolizes the difficult and tumultuous journey through life, laden with challenges and spiritual trials.[7]
From: Skanda Purana
(1) A metaphor for the complex challenges of worldly existence (Samsara) that need to be crossed for spiritual liberation.[8]
From: Bhagavata Purana
(1) A metaphor describing the overwhelming nature of samsara (cycle of life and death) and the challenges in overcoming it.[9]
From: Shiva Purana
(1) A metaphor used by Dharma to describe the overwhelming challenge of sin that he feels confronted by due to the behavior of his father and brothers.[10]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) The notion of the ocean of desires being hard to cross or achieve.[11] (2) An insurmountable barrier created by unfulfilled desires when destiny does not support one's efforts.[12] (3) A metaphor referring to the overwhelming and challenging nature of the cycle of repeated birth and death.[13]
From: Bhajana-Rahasya
(1) An expression of the overwhelming and insurmountable challenges faced in life, often tied to spiritual struggles.[14]