Significance of Matted hairs
Matted hair serves as a significant symbol across various philosophical and spiritual traditions. In Jainism, it represents renunciation and asceticism, while in Vaishnavism, it signifies devotion and detachment from worldly ties. The physical representation varies, often associated with deities such as Shiva and figures like ascetics and sages. This hairstyle reflects a lifestyle committed to spiritual practices and simplicity, emphasizing the deep connection to spirituality and the ascetic path. Overall, matted hair embodies the principles of renunciation and dedication to a higher calling.
Synonyms: Tangled hair, Knotted hair, Disheveled hair, Twisted hair
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Matted hairs'
Matted hair in Buddhism symbolizes asceticism and renunciation, reflecting a commitment to a simple, spiritual life. However, it is questioned for its genuine ability to indicate true holiness or wisdom, highlighting the importance of character over external appearances.
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) Wearing matted hair as an external sign of holiness, which does not lead to spiritual purity.[1] (2) A physical characteristic referenced in the text suggesting that wearing matted hair does not constitute being a true brahmin.[2] (3) A characteristic of the ascetics that indicates their ascetic practices and lifestyle.[3] (4) Matted locks or hair often associated with ascetic practices, questioned for their usefulness when one's character is unwise.[4]
From: The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) A physical characteristic of Kaliadevila, indicating his status as a hermit.[5] (2) The locks of hair of Devila that Narada unintentionally stepped on during the night.[6] (3) A symbol of a hermit's lifestyle, indicating a lack of concern for grooming, suggesting simplicity and commitment to ascetic practices.[7]
From: The Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) A style of hair typical of ascetics, symbolizing renunciation and often associated with particular spiritual practices.[8] (2) A style of hair worn by ascetics as a sign of renunciation and commitment to a life of simplicity and spirituality.[9] (3) A physical characteristic associated with ascetics, suggesting a lifestyle of renunciation and simplicity.[10]
From: Vinaya Pitaka (1): Bhikkhu-vibhanga (the analysis of Monks’ rules)
(1) Refers to a style of hair that might have caused some confusion in the context of conversation.[11]
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) A physical representation of the ascetic practices by the followers who accompanied the Buddha in the beginning.[12]
Hindu concept of 'Matted hairs'
In Hinduism, matted hair symbolizes asceticism and renunciation, often seen in sages and deities like Shiva and Kali, reflecting a commitment to spiritual practices and a rejection of worldly attachments.
From: The Skanda Purana
(1) Characteristic appearance of certain deities, indicating asceticism and spiritual power.[13] (2) A characteristic feature of sage Durvasas, symbolizing his ascetic lifestyle and appearance.[14] (3) A form of hairstyle representing asceticism, worn by noble souls in Pattana.[15] (4) A style of hair associated with ascetics and yogis, symbolizing renunciation and spiritual commitment.[16] (5) A physical manifestation or approach sometimes associated with ascetic or spiritual practices.[17]
From: The Shiva Purana
(1) A characteristic of the beings mentally created by Rudra, representing their unique appearance.[18] (2) A physical change that signifies a commitment to spiritual practices, as seen when Krishna is initiated into Shiva’s worship.[19] (3) A physical characteristic of the form Shiva assumed as a Jatila, symbolizing asceticism and renunciation.[20] (4) A defining feature of Lord Shiva's appearance, conveying his ascetic nature and connection to spirituality.[21] (5) A physical characteristic of Shiva, often associated with ascetic practices.[22]
From: The Padma Purana
(1) A characteristic of Shiva, symbolizing his ascetic nature and connection to spirituality.[23] (2) A physical description indicating a certain ascetic lifestyle associated with devotion and penance.[24] (3) A hairstyle often associated with hermits and ascetics, signifying renunciation of worldly pleasures.[25] (4) Bhagiratha's hair, which became a vessel holding Ganga for an elongated period during the journey.[26] (5) A unique hairstyle associated with ascetics or brahmanas, indicating a life of vows and discipline.[27]
From: The Linga Purana
(1) A physical appearance associated with certain ascetic practices indicating a devoted lifestyle.[28] (2) A physical trait of the Ganas, often associated with asceticism and strength.[29] (3) A physical characteristic of the goddess Kali, symbolizing her wild and primal nature.[30] (4) A characteristic of certain deities symbolizing strength, asceticism, and potency.[31] (5) A characteristic feature of Lord Hara, symbolizing asceticism and power.[32]
From: The Gautami Mahatmya
(1) Refers to the hair of Shankara, which caught the waters flowing towards the South, symbolizing containment and protection.[33] (2) The location of Ganga as mentioned in relation to Lord Shiva, from where she would later be released.[34] (3) Symbolizes asceticism and spiritual power, often associated with sages and ascetics.[35] (4) A physical characteristic of ascetics that symbolizes a guarantee for achieving realization, representing the mystical aspect.[36] (5) Refers to the locks of hair of Lord Shiva where the River Ganga was stationed, symbolic of his divine focus and meditation.[37]
From: The Agni Purana
(1) A traditional aspect associated with the goddess, conveying her raw and untamed nature.[38] (2) A representation of the divine, symbolizing ascetic practices and the spirituality of deities.[39] (3) A hairstyle depicted on the image of lord Brahma, signifying asceticism and spiritual prowess.[40] (4) A hairstyle associated with asceticism, where hair is allowed to grow long and entwined, symbolizing a rejection of societal norms.[41]
From: The Markandeya Purana (Study)
(1) A style of hair worn by ascetics, referred to as jata, indicating a specific cultural practice.[42] (2) A type of hair style worn by male and female ascetics, characterized by tangled or knotted hair.[43] (3) A physical manifestation of renunciation and asceticism often adopted by practitioners in the Vanaprastha stage.[44]
From: The Bhagavata Purana
(1) A hairstyle often associated with ascetic and sage-like individuals, symbolizing spirituality.[45] (2) A physical description of the sage Kardama, symbolizing his renunciation and commitment to spiritual practices.[46]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki
(1) A description of Rama's appearance during his exile, signifying his renunciation of royal life.[47] (2) Symbolizes the ascetic lifestyle taken on by Rama and Lakshmana during their exile in the forest.[48]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) A physical characteristic representative of asceticism or a life of renunciation, worn by the sons of Pritha during their hardships in the forest.[49]
From: The Nilamata Purana
(1) A description of Mahesvara's appearance, characterized by hair styled in twists, associated with power.[50]
From: Lalitopakhyana (Lalita Mahatmya)
(1) A characteristic appearance of Mahadeva, representing ascetic qualities.[51]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) A distinctive feature of Lord Nara-Narayana, adding to his sage-like appearance and spiritual stature.[52] (2) A hairstyle associated with asceticism, often seen in sages to signify their renunciation of worldly attachments.[53] (3) A distinctive hairstyle often associated with ascetic practices, signifying renunciation and devotion.[54] (4) A traditional feature of ascetics, representing Shiva's renunciation and commitment to a spiritual path.[55]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) A physical appearance characteristic of certain ascetic practices, referenced in describing those who are pashandis.[56]
From: Lakulisha-Pashupata (Philosophy and Practice)
(1) A characteristic of Daksinamurti's appearance, symbolizing asceticism.[57]
From: Shaiva Upanishads (A Critical Study)
(1) A hairstyle associated with Sadashiva-murti, representing asceticism.[58]
From: Shat-cakra-nirupana (the six bodily centres)
(1) A physical description of Ishvara, symbolizing ascetic qualities and connection to spirituality.[59] (2) The distinctive hair of Isha, contributing to his divine and unique countenance.[60]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) A physical manifestation of the ascetic lifestyle, associated with hermits and their renunciation of worldly attachments.[61]
From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)
(1) A characteristic feature of certain ascetics or devotees, emphasizing a lifestyle of renunciation and simplicity.[62]
From: Manasara (English translation)
(1) Hair styled in specific forms (jata and juta) that reflects the ascetic and sage-like qualities of the individuals.[63]
From: Shishupala-vadha (Study)
(1) Another physical characteristic of ascetics, often employed in disguises by spies.[64]
Jain concept of 'Matted hairs'
In Jainism, Matted hair symbolizes asceticism and renunciation of vanity, is associated with Yaksha Varuna's divine traits, and reflects the unkempt appearance of a female demon embodying a female ascetic.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) A physical characteristic of Yaksha Varuna, suggesting asceticism or divine qualities.[65] (2) The unkempt hair of the female demon as she assumed the form of a female ascetic.[66] (3) A physical representation of the ascetic lifestyle, symbolizing renunciation and the absence of vanity.[67]
The concept of 'Matted hairs' in local and regional sources
Matted hair symbolizes the deity's wild and powerful nature, serving as a distinctive characteristic that highlights their untamed essence and connection to primal forces, as noted in regional sources.
From: Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints
(1) A characteristic feature of the deity's appearance, suggesting a wild and powerful nature.[68]