Significance of Mother
Synonyms: Mama, Motherly figure, Guardian, Mother figure, Parent
In Dutch: Moeder; In Finnish: Äiti; In Spanish: Madre
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Mother'
In Buddhism, "Mother" signifies one's female parent, embodying nurturing love yet limited in spiritual guidance, and also refers to Dharmasvamin's mother, whose early death highlights the transient nature of life and attachment.
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) One's female parent, who is often depicted as giving immense love and worldly care, but limited in the spiritual offerings compared to a well-established mind.[1]
From: Milindapanha (questions of King Milinda)
(1) The woman who is to bear the Bodisat, chosen as part of the conditions for his rebirth.[2]
From: Blue Annals (deb-ther sngon-po)
(1) Refers to the Dharmasvamin's mother, who died when he was eight.[3]
Hindu concept of 'Mother'
In Hinduism, "Mother" embodies nurturing, protective qualities through female figures like Queen Dharani and divine deities such as Lakshmi and Sarasvati, emphasizing care, compassion, and the importance of maternal bonds in spiritual practice.
From: Skanda Purana
(1) A group of divine female figures associated with fertility and nurturing, symbolizing various aspects of life.[4] (2) Divine female deities that are to be worshipped, suggesting nurturing and protective aspects.[5] (3) Refers to the goddess as the divine maternal figure among all living beings, emphasizing her nurturing qualities.[6] (4) Deities that pilgrims adore after taking their holy bath.[7] (5) Divine figures referenced as nurturing protectors in the text, showing familial care and support towards the devotee.[8]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) A term used throughout the text to denote the nurturing, protective, and compassionate aspect of the Devi.[9] (2) Refers to Vyasa's mother, who is anxious for a son and astonished by Vyasa's earlier statements.[10] (3) Mandodari's mother who discusses her daughter's intentions and decisions regarding marriage with the King.[11]
From: Markandeya Purana
(1) Refers to divine beings born from the goddess during a great battle.[12] (2) A group of divine female figures that aid Candika during the battle against the Asuras.[13]
From: Gautami Mahatmya
(1) A group referenced that accompanied the goddess during the battle with the body of the demon.[14] (2) Divine beings who played a crucial role in defeating the enemies of Devas and returning to them.[15]
From: Lalitopakhyana (Lalita Mahatmya)
(1) The various female deities that are worshipped for divine power, including Lakshmi and Sarasvati.[16]
From: Bhagavad-gita-rahasya (or Karma-yoga Shastra)
(1) A metaphor for the Bhagavad Gita as a nurturing source of spiritual guidance and wisdom.[17]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) A female parent, indicating a nurturing role in someone's life.[18] (2) A term of endearment or address, referring to a female parent or maternal figure.[19] (3) A familial title referring to Nityananda's mother, illustrating the familial bond.[20] (4) The term used to refer affectionately to the female devotees from whom Shri Gaurasundara would beg alms.[21] (5) Represents a nurturing and supporting role in the context of the universe.[22]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) A term of address used by Shri Parikshit, conveying respect or affection.[23] (2) Janani refers to Maya as the mother of the illusory material world.[24] (3) The person addressed by Parikshit Maharaja, indicating a familial and emotional connection.[25]
From: Tiruvaymoli (Thiruvaimozhi): English translation
(1) The speaker who addresses her mates and highlights the difference between their daughters and hers.[26] (2) A term used to refer to the feminine divine, representing unconditional love and care.[27] (3) The figure that expresses concern for the love-smitten Nayaki and queries the Lord about her fate.[28]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) Refers to Yashoda, the child's mother, who witnesses the extraordinary event.[29] (2) A female parent who plays a significant role in nurturing and caring for their children.[30]
From: Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu
(1) Represents the nurturing figure in Krishna's life, highlighting themes of protection and innocence.[31]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) A female parent who should be treated with respect, as underscored in the text.[32] (2) A family member, regarded as nurturing and protective, who is unpunishable.[33]
From: Baudhayana Dharmasutra
(1) Refers to the female ancestors, including mothers of the family.[34]
From: Khadira-grihya-sutra
(1) The bride's mother, who plays a role in the marriage ceremony by preparing offerings and rituals.[35]
From: Harshacharita (socio-cultural Study)
(1) The primary role of women as creators and sustainers of life on earth.[36]
From: Abhinaya-darpana (English)
(1) Referred to as Matri, this relationship is indicated by the left hand Ardha-candra and the right hand Samdamsa, with the left hand placed on the stomach.[37]
From: Sahitya-kaumudi by Baladeva Vidyabhushana
(1) An affectionate term used to describe the Ganga, emphasizing a nurturing, caring role.[38]
From: Varahi Tantra (English Study)
(1) Refers to Brahmi and others highlighted as the superintendents of the universe and consciousness.[39]
The concept of Mother in local and regional sources
The keyphrase "Mother" encapsulates a multifaceted figure symbolizing nurturing and care across various contexts, from divine embodiment to literary characters, addressing themes of transformation, societal struggle, and unconditional support in both familial and broader societal frameworks.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) Refers to the divine feminine aspect in the context of spirituality and worship, as invoked by Vivekananda.[40] (2) Gorky's renowned novel that depicts the collective struggle of the people against oppression, marking a shift from individual to collective heroism.[41] (3) A novel by Gorky that illustrates 'socialist realism', depicting a mother character's transformation from meek to courageous, symbolizing the potential for personal and societal change.[42] (4) A character in 'Sandhyaraga' who embodies nurturing qualities, adding depth to the family dynamics explored in the story.[43] (5) Spiritual figure associated with Sri Aurobindo, who initially limited Cartier-Bresson's access but later permitted more intimate photographs.[44]
From: Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints
(1) The woman who speaks to Kabir, instructing him to bring the scarf and warning him of punishment.[45]
From: Village Folk-tales of Ceylon (Sri Lanka), vol. 1-3
(1) The nurturing figure in Hitihami's life who provides him with food and advice.[46] (2) How the Queen is referred to by the Prince, showcasing their relationship.[47] (3) The mother of the three siblings whose needs for food are ignored by her elder children.[48]