Significance of Pita
Pita holds various meanings in different contexts, according to Jainism, Vaishnavism, and Dharmashastra. In Jainism, it signifies 'datura.' In Vaishnavism, Pita refers to ancestral spirits or forefathers related to shraddha rituals. Meanwhile, in Dharmashastra, it is a past participial adjective indicating the act of drinking, specifically the moisture from a Shudra woman's mouth. The term Pita thus encompasses a range of interpretations across these philosophical and religious frameworks.
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Pita'
In Buddhism, Pita symbolizes the radiant hues emitted by the Buddha's body-rays, intertwining gold and yellow, reflecting spiritual brilliance and enlightenment during his visits, embodying the essence of divine wisdom and illumination.
From: Maha Buddhavamsa—The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) The color emitted by the Buddha’s body-rays during his visit, described as a mixture of gold and yellow, representing spiritual brilliance and enlightenment.[1]
Hindu concept of 'Pita'
In Hinduism, "Pita" can signify either a participial adjective related to the act of drinking, particularly from a Shudra woman, or denote ancestral spirits to whom rituals like shraddha are dedicated.
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) Refers to the ancestral spirits or forefathers to whom the shraddha is dedicated.[2]
From: Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu
(1) The term for 'father' in the context, indicating Nanda's role and his emotional communication with his wife.[3]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) A past participial adjective in the context, indicating the act of drinking, which in this case refers to drinking the moisture of a Shudra woman's mouth.[4]
Jain concept of 'Pita'
In Jainism, "Pita" is interpreted as a noun that signifies 'datura,' indicating its significance within the religious and cultural context. This highlights the importance of specific plant references in Jain teachings and practices.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) A noun meaning 'datura,' noted within context.[5]