Significance of Kashaya
Kashaya has various interpretations across different traditions. In Hinduism, it denotes sins and defilements that affect the soul, while Jainism highlights it as emotional disturbances hindering spiritual growth. In Ayurveda, Kashaya refers to herbal decoctions known for their astringent properties and medicinal uses. Additionally, in Mahayana Buddhism, it signifies the simple robes of monks symbolizing renunciation. Overall, Kashaya represents both emotional challenges and specific Ayurvedic preparations in spiritual and health contexts.
Synonyms: Astringent, Bitter, Pungent
In Dutch: Kashaya; In Finnish: Kashaya; In Spanish: Kashaya
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Kashaya'
Kashaya in Buddhism symbolizes renunciation and spiritual commitment, represented by the traditional saffron robe worn by monks. It embodies simplicity, detachment from materialism, and serves as a reminder of the monastic path.
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) The saffron robe worn by monks, symbolizing renunciation and commitment to a monastic life.[1] (2) A traditional robe worn by Buddhist monks, which the shramanera used to cover his head before entering the water.[2] (3) The traditional robe worn by monks, symbolizing simplicity and detachment from materialism.[3]
From: Buddhacarita
(1) A dyed garment; the robe worn by a Buddhist monastic.[4] (2) A simple robe worn by monastics, symbolizing renunciation and humility, contrasting with the expected splendor of a prince.[5]
From: Shurangama Sutra (with commentary) (English)
(1) The robe worn by bhikshus, symbolizing renunciation and spiritual commitment, which was put on Mahamaudgalyayana by the power of the Buddha.[6] (2) Kashaya is a Sanskrit word meaning 'mute colored' and refers to clothing designed to keep out dust.[7]
Hindu concept of 'Kashaya'
Kashaya in Hinduism encompasses diverse meanings, including an ascetic's red robe symbolizing mourning, a medicinal decoction, a reddish-yellow stone, and as a metaphor for defilements and passions obstructing spiritual enlightenment.
From: Sushruta Samhita, volume 4: Cikitsasthana
(1) A type of decoction prepared from various medicinal plants following specific measures and boiling processes.[8]
From: Harshacharita (socio-cultural Study)
(1) A red robe assumed by ascetics, which Rajyashri considered taking on as a form of mourning or transformation after her husband's death.[9]
From: Mandukya Upanishad (Gaudapa Karika and Shankara Bhashya)
(1) The passions and vices that obscure the true nature of the soul and must be overcome for spiritual growth.[10]
From: The Sarva-Darsana-Samgraha
(1) Defilements or sins that harm the soul, including emotions like anger and pride, influencing bondage and karma.[11]
From: Vasudevavijaya of Vasudeva (Study)
(1) A noun formed using a Taddhita affix an to represent a color, derived from the root word 'raga'.[12]
From: Rasa Jala Nidhi, vol 3: Metals, Gems and other substances
(1) A term for a stone that is reddish-yellow and transparent.[13]
Jain concept of 'Kashaya'
In Jainism, Kashaya is interpreted as afflictive passions—anger, pride, deceitfulness, and greed—that hinder spiritual progress and bind the soul, obstructing its journey toward liberation and influencing actions and karmas negatively.
From: Tattvartha Sutra (with commentary)
(1) The passions, which are four: anger, pride, deceitfulness, and greed.[14] (2) Passions or strong emotional states that can influence one's actions and karmas.[15]
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) Passions.[16] (2) Afflictive states or passions that can hinder spiritual development, relevant in the higher stages.[17]
From: Yogadrstisamuccaya of Haribhadra Suri (Study)
(1) The passions or emotional disturbances that bind the soul and obstruct its advance toward liberation.[18]
The concept of Kashaya in scientific sources
Kashaya in Ayurveda signifies both an astringent taste with drying properties affecting tissues and a therapeutic dosage form, usually a herb decoction, utilized in Nasapana for its health benefits.
From: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
(1) A liquid preparation obtained by boiling medicinal herbs, meant for instantaneous use in Ayurveda therapies.[19] (2) The astringent taste that should be included in the diet during Sharad Ritu to counteract Pitta aggravation.[20] (3) Astringent taste associated with certain ingredients of Mushkakadi Gana, significant in determining their action in the body.[21] (4) A decoction prepared from herbal ingredients that serves as a base for mixing with sweetening agents in the fermentation process.[22] (5) A decoction prepared from coarse powders of herbs, which is an important step in the preparation of Arishta.[23]
From: International Ayurvedic Medical Journal
(1) A type of herbal preparation in Ayurveda, often used for its astringent properties and healing effects.[24] (2) A sour astringent taste associated with certain herbs, including Haritaki.[25] (3) An internal medicine formulation evaluated for its efficacy when combined with Panchavalkal Lepa in the treatment of Mukhadooshika.[26] (4) A decoction prepared from the whole plant of Andrographis macrobotrys, used in this study to evaluate analgesic action.[27] (5) An herbal decoction used in basti preparations, influencing the action based on its composition and properties.[28]
From: Journal of Ayurveda and Holistic Medicine
(1) Astringent taste in Ayurveda; it is believed to have drying and tightening effects on tissues.[29] (2) A dosage form in Ayurveda, typically a decoction of herbs, used in Nasapana to provide therapeutic benefits.[30]
From: Ancient Science of Life
(1) An Ayurvedic preparation characterized by its astringent taste, often used in medicinal treatments.[31] (2) A term referring to herbal decoctions used in traditional medicine as part of the formulation process for Ayurvedic treatments.[32]
From: Ayushdhara journal
(1) A term used in Ayurveda to describe something that possesses astringent properties; noted among the qualities of Madhumeha urine.[33] (2) A type of Ayurvedic decoction that is often used to treat various health conditions including Mutrashmari.[34]