Significance of Piece of wood
The keyphrase "Piece of wood" holds various meanings across different contexts in Hinduism and South Asian culture. It represents a log or fragment used in fire rituals, symbolizing the essence of fire and its significance in sacrifices. Additionally, it serves as a tool for Chandalas to signal their presence, and in Purana texts, it marks Duryodhana's defeat. Further interpretations within Dharmashastra outline its role in ceremonial offerings to Agni, reflecting themes of life, devotion, and the symbolic aspect of sacrifice. In Mahayana, it illustrates concepts of awareness and meditation.
Synonyms: Timber, Plank, Log, Stick
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Piece of wood'
In Buddhism, "Piece of wood" symbolizes mistaken identity, representing deep meditation, lack of awareness, and a profound commentary on consciousness. It emphasizes both the capacity for reactions in inanimate objects and intellectual debates.
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) A simile implying that even an inanimate object would exhibit a reaction, indicating the strength of the debate against Sa-tchö-k’i.[1] (2) A mistaken identity of the Buddha by a bird, illustrating the depth of meditation where he appeared as an inanimate object.[2]
From: Shurangama Sutra (with commentary by Hsuan Hua)
(1) Another metaphor used by Ananda to signify a lack of awareness or consciousness, reinforcing the feeling of being without a mind.[3]
Hindu concept of 'Piece of wood'
In Hinduism, a "Piece of wood" symbolizes ritual significance, serving as fuel in fire ceremonies, offerings to Agni, and representing sacrifice and life's blessings, crucial in various Vedic rituals and spiritual practices.
From: Sankhayana-grihya-sutra
(1) A physical element used in the fire ritual, symbolizing an offering to Agni, the fire deity, in the context of seeking prosperity and growth.[4] (2) A simple offering that represents the idea of sacrifice, no matter how small.[5] (3) An object held during the practice, which may symbolize a physical or spiritual tool in the observance of devotion.[6] (4) An object used in rituals or ceremonies, particularly for fuel in fire-related practices, indicating its significance in the context.[7] (5) An object that may be placed on the fire before the first oblation, as part of the rituals.[8]
From: Asvalayana-grihya-sutra
(1) An object silently placed by the student, symbolizing offering and preparation.[9] (2) An item that the person should obtain for ritual purposes, which can be either sappy or dry based on intentions.[10] (3) An object brought to Agni as an offering.[11] (4) An object that, when offered on the fire with belief, is considered a valid sacrifice.[12]
From: Paraskara-grihya-sutra
(1) An alternative offering to the gods, illustrating that even non-nutritive items can hold ritual significance.[13] (2) An element used in the ritual fire to symbolize life, insight, and various blessings.[14]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) Referred to as 'Shamya,' this item is used in the measurement process for the pasture-land.[15]
From: Gobhila-grihya-sutra
(1) A component added to the fire, essential for maintaining the ritualistic flame.[16]
From: Hiranyakesi-grihya-sutra
(1) A segment of wood used in the fire ritual, specifically offered to Agni using a designated mantra.[17]
From: Khadira-grihya-sutra
(1) An offering placed on the fire during the sacrificial rites.[18]
From: Apastamba Grihya-sutra
(1) A material used to fuel the ceremonial fire during Vedic rituals, indicating the importance of fire in sacrifices.[19]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) An expression used by Krishna to emphasize that Duryodhana has become powerless after his defeat.[20]
From: Satapatha-brahmana
(1) A log or fragment used in the fire that symbolizes the presence of fire within wood.[21]
The concept of 'Piece of wood' in local and regional sources
The term "Piece of wood" signifies an object employed by Chandalas, serving as a social marker to announce their presence and establish necessary social distance within the community, as reported by regional sources.
From: The travels of Fa-Hian (400 A.D.)
(1) An object used by Chandalas to announce their presence to others in the community to maintain social distance.[22]