Significance of Parent
According to Vedanta, the term "parent" encompasses not only the biological contributors to a child's genetics but also their spiritual lineage. This concept emphasizes the importance of both physical and spiritual connections in shaping a child's identity and growth, highlighting the role parents play in passing down not just genes, but also values, beliefs, and cultural legacies. Thus, the definition of a parent extends beyond mere biology to include a deeper spiritual dimension.
Synonyms: Guardian, Mother, Father, Guardian angel, Protector, Progenitor
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Parent'
In Buddhism, "Parent" symbolizes the bodhisattva's compassion reflecting love and care for all beings, while also denoting family members to whom a nun, Thullananda, can gift robe-material without wrongdoing.
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) Symbolic of the bodhisattva's compassion, where all beings are regarded with love and altruistic care.[1]
From: Vinaya Pitaka (2): Bhikkhuni-vibhanga (the analysis of Nun’ rules)
(1) Family members to whom the nun Thullananda can give recluses' robe-material without incurring an offence.[2]
Hindu concept of 'Parent'
In Hinduism, "Parent" signifies a biological contributor to a child's genetics and spiritual lineage, embodying both physical and metaphysical roles in shaping the child's identity and destiny.
From: Taittiriya Upanishad Bhashya Vartika
(1) One of the biological contributors to a child's genetics and spiritual lineage.[3]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) The father and mother from whom a son is bought.[4]