Significance of Outstretched arms
Outstretched arms carry significant meanings across various beliefs. In Vaishnavism, they symbolize a warm welcome and affection, the Yajna murti's readiness to accept offerings, and Vamanan's humility as a seeker of alms. According to Purana, this gesture is metaphorically compared to ocean waves. In Theravada, outstretched arms express a child's desire to be held, reflecting instinctual needs, as well as a gesture of despair from a mendicant facing misfortune. Overall, outstretched arms convey a range of emotions from affection to neediness.
Synonyms: Open arms
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Outstretched arms'
In Buddhism, "Outstretched arms" symbolizes an infant's instinctual longing for maternal comfort and, conversely, represents a mendicant's despair and helplessness in the face of misfortune, illustrating deep emotional expressions.
From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) A gesture of helplessness and mourning that signifies the mendicant’s despair after his misfortune.[1]
From: Abhidhamma in Daily Life (by Ashin Janakabhivamsa)
(1) A gesture made by an infant to express the desire to be held by their mother, demonstrating the instinctual nature of chanda.[2]
Hindu concept of 'Outstretched arms'
In Hinduism, "Outstretched arms" symbolizes various meanings: the ocean's waves, a goddess's welcoming gesture, Vamanan's humility, the Yajna murti's readiness to accept offerings, and an eager welcome, embodying both receptiveness and devotion.
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) physical gesture of eager welcome[3] (2) a gesture of welcome and affection from the goddess towards the speaker.[4] (3) The physical manifestation of Yajna murti, symbolizing His willingness to accept oblations.[5]
From: Tiruvaymoli (Thiruvaimozhi): English translation
(1) Symbolizes Vamanan's approach as a seeker of alms, displaying humility despite seeking worthy offerings from Mavali.[6]
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) Metaphorical description of the waves of the ocean rolling towards the shore.[7]