Significance of Locative case

The Locative case is defined in both Purana and Vyakarana as a grammatical case that indicates the location of an object or action. It is described as the seventh case in Purana, emphasizing where something exists. In Vyakarana, the Locative case denotes location and is referenced in the meanings of certain indeclinables. Overall, the Locative case serves to clarify the position and presence of elements within language structure.

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

Hindu concept of 'Locative case'

Hinduism Books

In Hinduism, the Locative case signifies the grammatical form that indicates the location or position of objects or actions, marking the seventh case that contextualizes meaning, particularly in relation to certain indeclinables.

Significance of Locative case in Purana and Itihasa (epic history):

Purana Books

From: Agni Purana

(1) The seventh case used to indicate location or position.^[1]

From: Garuda Purana

(1) The grammatical case used to indicate the location of an object or an action, showing where something exists.^[2]

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 of Locative case in Vyakarana (Sanskrit grammar):

Vyakarana Books

From: Amarakoshodghatana of Kshirasvamin (study)

(1) A grammatical case used to denote location, referenced in the meaning of certain indeclinables.^[3]

From: Vakyapadiya of Bhartrihari

(1) A grammatical case used to indicate the location or position of something, which in this context relates to the expression about non-existence.^[4]

Vyakarana refers to Sanskrit grammar and represents one of the six additional sciences (vedanga) to be studied along with the Vedas. Vyakarana concerns itself with the rules of Sanskrit grammar and linguistic analysis in order to establish the correct context of words and sentences.

Significance of Locative case in Vedanta (school of philosophy):

Vedanta Books

From: Brahma Sutras (Shankara Bhashya)

(1) A grammatical case that indicates the location of an object, which is relevant in expressing the nuances of Brahman's description.^[5]

From: Chandogya Upanishad (Shankara Bhashya)

(1) A grammatical concept referring to the specific context of a word, which in this meditation influences interpretation and meaning.^[6]

Vedanta refers to a school of orthodox Hindu philosophy (astika), drawing its subject-matter from the Upanishads. There are a number of sub-schools of Vedanta, however all of them expound on the basic teaching of the ultimate reality (brahman) and liberation (moksha) of the individual soul (atman).

Significance of Locative case in Yoga (school of philosophy):

Yoga Books

From: Yoga-sutras (with Vyasa and Vachaspati Mishra)

(1) A grammatical case that indicates the location or position of an object in relation to its context, emphasizing their perceived separation.^[7]

Yoga is originally considered a branch of Hindu philosophy (astika), but both ancient and modern Yoga combine the physical, mental and spiritual. Yoga teaches various physical techniques also known as asanas (postures), used for various purposes (eg., meditation, contemplation, relaxation).

Significance of Locative case in Kavyashastra (science of poetry):

Kavyashastra Books

From: Sahitya-kaumudi by Baladeva Vidyabhushana

(1) A grammatical case that denotes a location or time but also conveys the sense of the genitive in specific contexts.^[8]

Kavyashastra refers to the ancient Indian tradition of poetry (kavya). Canonical literature (shastra) of the includes encyclopedic manuals dealing with prosody, rhetoric and various other guidelines serving to teach the poet how to compose literature.

Last Updated: 25 September, 2024