Significance of Kutashalmali

Kutashalmali, as described in the Purana, is identified in three significant aspects. Firstly, it is the fifth hell, marked by trees that resemble charcoal, designated for punishing adulterers and dishonest people. Secondly, it serves as the nineteenth Naraka, where atheists and lawbreakers face torment amidst sharp thorns. Lastly, Kutashalmali refers to a specific thorny tree employed in the torture of sinners, enhancing the severity of their punishment.

In Dutch: Kutashalmali; In Finnish: Kutashalmali; In Spanish: Kutashalmali

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

Buddhist concept of 'Kutashalmali'

Buddhism Books

Kutashalmali in Buddhism is interpreted as a significant tree linked to Garuda, symbolizing immense mythical strength and power within the spiritual narrative, reflecting the interconnectedness of nature and divine beings in Buddhist teachings.

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

From: The gods of northern Buddhism

(1) A large tree associated with Garuda, highlighting their mythical power.[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 'Kutashalmali'

Hinduism Books

Kutashalmali in Hinduism is interpreted as a thorny tree linked to punishment, representing the nineteenth Naraka for atheists and lawbreakers, and the fifth hell, where adulterers and dishonest individuals endure intense suffering among charcoal-like trees.

Significance in Ayurveda (science of life):
Ayurveda Books

From: Journal of Ayurveda and Integrated Medical Sciences

(1) This is a drug described as Kapha-Vatanuth and Medapaha, and compounds in this drug are useful for antihyperlipidemic activity.[2]

Ayurveda is a branch of Indian science dealing with medicine, herbalism, taxology, anatomy, surgery, alchemy and related topics. Traditional practice of Ayurveda in ancient India dates back to at least the first millenium BC. Literature is commonly written in Sanskrit using various poetic metres.