Significance of Intoxicating Drink
Intoxicating Drink is described in various cultural and religious texts, emphasizing its potential to alter consciousness and the associated consequences. In Purana, it encompasses alcoholic beverages like wine, which contribute to festivities but can lead to negative outcomes. Kavya highlights its use in manipulation, while Ayurveda warns of severe health risks. Dharmashastra addresses the social implications of intoxication and expiation rituals. Similarly, Mahayana and Theravada discourage drinking due to impaired judgment. Overall, intoxication is generally viewed as detrimental across contexts.
Synonyms: Alcoholic beverage, Intoxicant, Liquor, Spirit, Strong drink
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Intoxicating Drink'
In Buddhism, "Intoxicating Drink" encompasses various fermented or distilled beverages that impair judgment and promote heedlessness, thereby discouraging their consumption to encourage mindful living and adherence to Buddhist principles.
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) A general term for beverages that induce intoxication, including various types specified in the text.[1] (2) Beverages that contain alcohol and can cause intoxication; categorized into different types based on their ingredients.[2]
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) Fermented or distilled drinks that impair judgment and lead to heedlessness, discouraged in Buddhist practice.[3]
Hindu concept of 'Intoxicating Drink'
In Hinduism, "Intoxicating Drink" encompasses alcoholic beverages leading to moral decline, altered states of consciousness, and specific restrictions, particularly for women. It includes elements of seduction, health risks, and cultural prohibitions, highlighting significant social implications.
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) Beverages made from fruits, roots, and flowers that may cause intoxication, which are generally not permissible for consumption.[4] (2) A general term referring to beverages that can cause intoxication, specifically discussed in the context of expiations for consuming water from vessels meant for such drinks.[5] (3) A general term referring to any beverage that can cause intoxication, including wine and other similar drinks.[6] (4) Alcoholic beverages that, when consumed excessively, can lead to moral and social troubles.[7] (5) An overarching category that includes various liquors made from multiple ingredients, all of which are considered unclean for the Brahmana.[8]
From: Apastamba Dharma-sutra
(1) Beverages that cause impairment or drunkenness, which are strictly forbidden.[9]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) Beverages that can alter one's state of consciousness and are often restricted in certain lifestyles.[10] (2) Refers to various alcoholic beverages consumed by attendees during the celebrations, contributing to a festive atmosphere.[11]
From: Padma Purana
(1) Refers to the wine and madhu-madhavi offered by Rambha, which causes inebriation.[12]
From: Agni Purana
(1) The term associated with 'Sura', referring to an alcoholic beverage.[13]
From: Anugita (English translation)
(1) Beverages that alter the state of mind and can lead to negative consequences.[14]
From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)
(1) A pivotal substance employed by the prince to gain access to Padmavati, embodying the theme of seduction and manipulation.[15] (2) Refers to the practice of administrating potent beverages to animals, explored within Hindu fictional contexts.[16]
From: Charaka Samhita (English translation)
(1) Alcoholic beverages that, when consumed, can lead to severe health consequences in dream states.[17]
The concept of Intoxicating Drink in local and regional sources
The term "Intoxicating Drink" symbolizes distractions or negative influences relinquished during the pursuit of knowledge or enlightenment, highlighting the struggle to maintain focus on personal growth amidst tempting diversions.
From: Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints
(1) The negative influences or distractions that one abandons after initially pursuing a path of knowledge or enlightenment.[18]