Significance of Milky ocean
According to Vaishnavism, the Milky ocean symbolizes a vast expanse associated with divine myths, richness, and the cosmic realm where the essence of existence is revealed. It is depicted as a nurturing space linked to creation and spiritual sustenance, where deities and demons churned for nectar. The ocean serves as a metaphor for divine abundance, purity, and tranquility, often representing the abode of Vishnu and a serene refuge during times of distress. It plays a critical role in various Hindu cosmological narratives.
Synonyms: Milky sea
In Dutch: Melkachtige oceaan; In Finnish: Maitoinen valtameri; In Spanish: Océano lechoso
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Milky ocean'
In Buddhism, the Milky Ocean symbolizes a pure backdrop, from which the moon chariot ascends, representing enlightenment and spiritual transcendence, emphasizing the importance of purity in achieving higher states of consciousness.
From: Maha Buddhavamsa—The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) The imagery used to describe the backdrop from which the moon chariot rises, symbolizing purity.[1]
Hindu concept of 'Milky ocean'
The Milky Ocean in Hinduism symbolizes a vast cosmic expanse, serving as a divine abode for significant events, nourishment, and the source of creation, where gods and demons churn to obtain immortal nectar and other treasures.
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) A reference to the divine source that nourishes and supports creation, paralleling the pot filled with milk for the embryo.[2] (2) A metaphor for spiritual abundance and the profound joy derived from divine encounters, likened to the richness of the ocean.[3] (3) A sea characterized by sweetness, symbolizing fertility and abundance.[4] (4) The abode from which Hari started his journey.[5] (5) The watery mansion where Hari slept, used in the context of creation and preservation of the world.[6]
From: Padma Purana
(1) A significant cosmic entity within Hindu mythology, associated with the gathering of gods seeking refuge and wisdom.[7] (2) The ocean from which various life forms and spiritual insights emerge, correlated with Narayana.[8] (3) A mythological reference symbolizing a vast and sacred space, often linked with deities like Vishnu and significant events in Hindu cosmology.[9] (4) A reference to the mythological ocean in Hindu cosmology where gods and sages congregated during the churning of the ocean.[10] (5) The ocean that was churned by gods and demons to generate desired objects, including the goddess Lakshmi.[11]
From: Bhagavata Purana
(1) The ocean described as the best among oceans, serving as a divine abode and location for significant events.[12] (2) The ocean surrounding the mountain Trikuta, contributing to the mountain's beauty and significance.[13] (3) The cosmic ocean from which the Parijata tree was obtained during the churning by gods and Asuras.[14]
From: Bhagavad-gita Mahatmya
(1) The celestial body of water associated with primordial creation, indicating a significant location in the divine realm.[15] (2) A mythological ocean referenced in the text, signifying richness and divine origins.[16] (3) This refers to the cosmic ocean in which Vishnu rests, depicting a state of deep contemplation.[17]
From: Vishnu Purana (Taylor)
(1) The mythical ocean where the deities retreated to perform austerities.[18] (2) The cosmic ocean where the deities and demons churned to obtain the nectar of immortality, along with various divine beings.[19] (3) The location where the Pracetases undertook their austerities for ten thousand years.[20]
From: Agni Purana
(1) The body of water where Vishnu reclined and where the churning for ambrosia took place.[21] (2) A reference to a mythological body of water, emblematic of divine origins in Hindu mythology.[22]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki
(1) A mythical ocean mentioned as the location of an island where powerful inhabitants reside.[23]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) The sacred ocean created from a single jet of Surabhi's milk, known for its foam resembling a belt of flowers.[24]
From: Brahma Purana
(1) A symbol of ultimate purity and sanctity, signifying the vast and profound qualities associated with divine spaces.[25]
From: Vishnu Purana
(1) A reference to a mythological ocean in Hindu cosmology, symbolizing a place of convergence for gods seeking divine assistance against adversaries.[26]
From: Gautami Mahatmya
(1) A mythical ocean referenced by Bharadvaja when discussing the effort to obtain nectar, symbolizing the difficulty of achieving divine rewards.[27]
From: Skanda Purana
(1) The abode of Vishnu, representing a divine and sacred location.[28]
From: Tiruvaymoli (Thiruvaimozhi): English translation
(1) Symbolizes a vast expanse of potential and richness, used in the context of divine myths about creation and interaction with powerful beings.[29] (2) A metaphorical reference to a serene and expansive state where the divine resides, often connected with the concept of vastness and tranquility.[30] (3) A literal and symbolic reference to the divine realm where Krishna resides, emphasizing the celestial and tranquil nature of His abode.[31] (4) The cosmic ocean from which nectar was churned in a divine event involving Devas and Asuras.[32] (5) A metaphorical reference within the narrative that signifies a grand divine presence in contrast to the earthly settings.[33]
From: Dasarupaka (critical study)
(1) The ocean in the plot of Samudramanthana where gods and demons churn to obtain valuable things.[34] (2) The mystical ocean that was the site of the Samudramanthana, where gods and demons churned for ambrosia.[35]
From: Siddhanta Sangraha of Sri Sailacharya
(1) A metaphor describing the extensive and profound nature of the tenets associated with Shri Bhashyakara.[36]
From: Narayaniya (Narayaneeyam)
(1) A mythical representation of a vast cosmic expanse, contextualizing the spiritual journey undertaken by Narada.[37]
The concept of Milky ocean in local and regional sources
The keyphrase "Milky ocean" symbolizes vastness and the ocean of knowledge in Indian mythology, reflecting its profound cultural significance and metaphorical imagery that illustrates endless wisdom and exploration.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) A metaphorical image, possibly indicating vastness or the ocean of knowledge in Indian mythology.[38]