Significance of Kin

The term "Kin" varies in meaning across different contexts. According to Purana, it refers to the family and close ones of Krishna and Balarama, as well as relatives affected by conflicts. In Theravada, Kin includes close associates in monastic settings, like teachers and family members, whose needs may hinder practice. In scientific contexts, Kin refers to kinetin and 6-furfurylaminopurine, both types of cytokinins used in plant tissue culture to stimulate shoot growth.1
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Synonyms: Family, Blood, Lineage, Ancestry, Clan, Tribe, Folk, Kindred, Kinsfolk

In Dutch: Familie; In Finnish: Suhteellinen; In Spanish: Familiares; In German: Verwandtschaft; In Polish: Względny; In Portugese: Parente; In Italian: Parente

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

Buddhist concept of 'Kin'

Buddhism Books

In Buddhism, "Kin" encompasses close associates like teachers and fellow monks, along with family members. Their challenges can distract or hinder one’s spiritual practice, emphasizing the interconnection between personal relationships and mindfulness.

Significance in Theravada (major branch of Buddhism):
Theravada Books

From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6

(1) It refers to the troop led back by Luckie, highlighting his success in preserving and returning with his entire herd of deer.[1] (2) He who is faithful to his friends is considered the best of all kin.[2]

From: Visuddhimagga (the pah of purification)

(1) Includes close associates in the monastery context such as teachers and co-residents, as well as family members; their illness or needs can become a distraction or impediment for practice.[3]

From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)

(1) The text explains that even though kin may provide support, a well-directed mind can do one greater good; this includes family members.[4]

Theravada is a major branch of Buddhism having the the Pali canon (tipitaka) as their canonical literature, which includes the vinaya-pitaka (monastic rules), the sutta-pitaka (Buddhist sermons) and the abhidhamma-pitaka (philosophy and psychology).

Hindu concept of 'Kin'

Hinduism Books

In Hinduism, "Kin" pertains to the family of Krishna and Balarama, as well as those close relatives affected by conflicts, emphasizing the significance of familial bonds and the impact of strife on these relationships.

Significance in Purana and Itihasa (epic history):
Purana Books

From: Mahabharata (English)

(1) Family members and close relatives who have been harmed as a result of conflicts.[5]

From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Griffith)

(1) Kin will pay the price.[6]

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 in Jyotisha (astronomy and astrology):
Jyotisha Books

From: Hayanaratna: The Jewel of Annual Astrology

(1) Kin, mentioned in the text, can be associated with evils, and are considered in relation to planetary configurations that influence outcomes and events related to the eighth house.[7]

Jyotisha (ज्योतिष, jyotisha or jyotish) refers to ‘astronomy’ or “Vedic astrology” and represents the fifth of the six Vedangas (additional sciences to be studied along with the Vedas). Jyotisha concerns itself with the study and prediction of the movements of celestial bodies, in order to calculate the auspicious time for rituals and ceremonies.

The concept of Kin in scientific sources

Science Books

Kin, or 6-furfurylaminopurine, is a cytokinin used in plant tissue culture to stimulate shoot growth, demonstrating effectiveness similar to BAP, highlighting its significance in promoting plant development.

Significance in Health Sciences:
Health Sciences Books

From: South African Family Practice

(1) This refers to one's relatives, and the text notes that studies have found caregivers are often not adequately supported by their close kin.[8]