Significance of Perfume
Synonyms: Fragrance, Scent, Aroma, Cologne, Essence, Odor, Extract.
In Spanish: Perfume; In Dutch: Parfum; In Finnish: Hajuvesi; In German: Parfüm
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Perfume'
In Buddhism, perfume symbolizes both sensory desire and spiritual offerings. It represents olfactory pleasure that can hinder enlightenment, as well as sacred gifts in worship and acts of generosity, reflecting moral qualities and compassion.
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) Perfumes, referred to as gandha, are among the items that an individual might give to someone else, representing a form of offering, a facet of generosity.[1] (2) Aromatic substances used to create pleasant scents, often used in worship.[2] (3) A sensory object in the five objects of desire, associated with olfactory experiences that can lead to a shortening of one's spiritual journey.[3]
From: Maha Buddhavamsa—The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) An offering that the Bodhisatta makes to produce the sweet fragrance of incomparable morality, and it is one of the ten kinds of offering of food, drink etc.[4]
From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) Fragrant substances used for scent, among the luxuries that Sutasoma held.[5]
Hindu concept of 'Perfume'
In Hinduism, perfume symbolizes purity, renewal, and spiritual offerings. It plays a vital role in rituals, enhances ceremonial experiences, and can signify both devotion and social status, while also being associated with strict ethical guidelines.
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) Fragrant liquids made from essential oils or synthetic compounds, included in the list of items leading to a fasting penance when stolen.[6] (2) Fragrant substances that are among the articles from which the sixth part is taken.[7]
From: Gobhila-grihya-sutra
(1) This is one of the offerings in the rituals, as the text lists the offering of it, alongside other actions, such as the anointing of the bunches of Darbha grass.[8] (2) Fragrant substances offered to the Brahmanas during the ceremony, possibly for purification or enhancement of the ritual atmosphere.[9]
From: Apastamba Grihya-sutra
(1) Scented substances used to anoint the body, enhancing the rituals and ceremonies with fragrance.[10]
From: Garuda Purana
(1) These are fragrant substances, and perfumes can be sold for money only for religious purposes.[11]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Shastri)
(1) This was used by the warriors, indicating their adornment, and also sprinkled with.[12]
From: Journal of Ayurveda and Integrated Medical Sciences
(1) This is an irritant chemical that can trigger allergic reactions, causing inflammation of the lining of the nose and triggering symptoms like sneezing.[13] (2) These are fragrance cosmetics, and phthalates are used in them.[14]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) A fragrant liquid used by the merchant, which is being applied to the Lord's body.[15]
From: Manasara (English translation)
(1) These are substances used to worship the pillar, as indicated in the text, forming part of the ritual practices during the ceremony.[16]
From: Paduka-panchaka (the five-fold footstool)
(1) The Guru's perfumes are ever fresh and pure, signifying a state of constant renewal.[17]
The concept of Perfume in local and regional sources
"Perfume" relates to an elegy by Donne, where he explores themes of betrayal and secret love through the metaphor of scent, illustrating how fragrance can evoke hidden emotions and memories tied to love and loss.
From: Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints
(1) The provided text mentions an abundance of this and its potential harm, which astonished some people.[18] (2) A substance that people offer, along with sacred rice, flowers, sandalwood paste, jewels, pearls, and golden ornaments.[19]
From: Triveni Journal
(1) An elegy in which Donne addresses feelings of betrayal linked to a secret love affair revealed by scent.[20]