Significance of Plantain trunk
The concept of the Plantain trunk in Theravada Buddhism serves as a metaphor for formations, demonstrating their transient nature and the absence of a solid core. It also functions as an analogy for sankhara, emphasizing that such activities are characterized by a lack of a substantial inner essence. This understanding highlights the impermanence and emptiness of all formed things within the Buddhist framework.
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Buddhist concept of 'Plantain trunk'
In Buddhism, the Plantain trunk symbolizes sankhara, highlighting the absence of a substantial inner core. It serves as a metaphor for formations, emphasizing their ephemeral nature and lack of solid essence.
From: Visuddhimagga (the pah of purification)
(1) A metaphor for formations, illustrating their lack of a solid core and their ephemeral nature.[1]
From: Guide to Tipitaka
(1) An analogy for sankhara, illustrating that such activities lack a substantial inner core.[2]
The concept of Plantain trunk in local and regional sources
Plantain trunks are utilized as materials for constructing altars in the Bali ceremony, serving as structures where offerings are placed, highlighting their cultural and ceremonial significance in the region.
From: Buddhist Ceremonies and Rituals of Sri Lanka
(1) Materials used to construct altars in the bali ceremony where offerings are placed.[3]