Significance of Pativrata

Pativrata, in the context of Vaishnavism and other Indian texts, refers to a devoted wife who exemplifies loyalty and dedication to her husband. This term signifies not only chastity but also a woman's role as a devoted companion, often seen as attending to her husband like a shadow. Historically, Pativrata is associated with virtuous women celebrated for their unwavering devotion to family and husband, representing ideals of loyalty that are highly valued in society.

Synonyms: Devoted wife, Chaste woman, Dedicated wife, Faithful wife, Loyal wife, Virtuous wife

In German: Pativrata; In Finnish: Pativrata; In Spanish: Pativrata; In Dutch: Pativraten

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Hindu concept of 'Pativrata'

Hinduism Books

Pativrata in Hinduism signifies a devoted wife characterized by loyalty, chastity, and service to her husband. It highlights her esteemed social role and unwavering commitment, often embodying a chaste partner dedicated entirely to her spouse.

Significance in Vaishnavism (Vaishava dharma):
Vaishnavism Books

From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)

(1) chaste[1]

From: Chaitanya Bhagavata

(1) Refers to a devoted wife, emphasizing loyalty and dedication to her husband.[2]

Vaishnava or vaishnavism (vaishnavism) represents a tradition of Hinduism worshipping Vishnu as the supreme Lord. Similar to the Shaktism and Shaivism traditions, Vaishnavism also developed as an individual movement, famous for its exposition of the dashavatara (‘ten avatars of Vishnu’).

Significance in Purana and Itihasa (epic history):
Purana Books

From: Devi Bhagavata Purana

(1) Women who are devoted exclusively to their husbands, signifying loyalty and chastity.[3]

The Purana refers to Sanskrit literature preserving ancient India’s vast cultural history, including historical legends, religious ceremonies, various arts and sciences. The eighteen mahapuranas total over 400,000 shlokas (metrical couplets) and date to at least several centuries BCE.

Significance in Dharmashastra (religious law):
Dharmashastra Books

From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi

(1) A term that means a woman devoted to her husband, emphasizing chastity and loyalty.[4]

Dharmashastra contains the instructions (shastra) regarding religious conduct of livelihood (dharma), ceremonies, jurisprudence (study of law) and more. It is categorized as smriti, an important and authoritative selection of books dealing with the Hindu lifestyle.

The concept of Pativrata in local and regional sources

History Books

Pativrata signifies an ideal wife devoted to her husband and family, embodying loyalty and virtue. The term is used to exemplify Padma's character, reflecting traditional values of devotion in women.

Significance in India history and geography:

From: Triveni Journal

(1) An epithet meaning a devoted wife, representing Sita's loyalty and commitment to Rama throughout her trials.[5] (2) The value of a wife's devotion to her husband, which is reinforced through cultural myths and sayings.[6] (3) Refers to an ideal wife devoted to her husband and family, representing strong loyalty.[7] (4) A term referring to virtuous women who are devoted to their husbands, used by the old man to exemplify Padma’s character.[8]

Plural form: Pativratas.