Significance of Proper time
Proper time is a crucial concept across various Indian philosophical traditions, signifying the most suitable moment for performing actions or rituals. In Hinduism, it encompasses the appropriate moment for Soma sacrifices, while Jainism emphasizes timing in speech and specific life events. Vaishnavism focuses on astrological guidance for auspicious actions, and Purana stresses its importance in rituals and hospitality. Similarly, Ayurveda highlights proper timing for medicine consumption, and Dharmashastra emphasizes it in governance and sacred practices. Proper time is thus essential for spiritual advancement and effective decision-making across these traditions.
Synonyms: Exact time, Proper duration
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Proper time'
Proper time in Buddhism emphasizes the significance of timely actions in relationships and decision-making. It encompasses the ideal moments for Buddha's teachings, interactions with followers, and discussions on various topics, including cultural norms around eating.
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) Kalabhojana, referring to the accepted norm of timing for actions such as eating.[1] (2) The appropriate moment when the Buddha communicates the ten powers to those in need of guidance.[2] (3) The appropriate conditions or timing for discussing certain topics, such as medicine, clothing, and food, as referenced by the Buddha.[3]
From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) Indicates the importance of timely actions in relationships and planning, suggesting that timeliness can be crucial in achieving goals.[4]
From: Maha Buddhavamsa—The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) The appropriate moments recognized by Ananda for various individuals, including bhikkhus, bhikkhunis, and lay disciples, to visit the Tathagata.[5]
Hindu concept of 'Proper time'
In Hinduism, Proper time signifies the auspicious moments deemed essential for various rituals, actions, and life stages, emphasizing divine timing for effectiveness in spiritual practices, governance, decision-making, and personal milestones.
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) Proper time indicates the specific moment when the consequences of actions, like flowers and fruits, manifest naturally.[6] (2) The significance of timing in decision-making, highlighting the need for patience in leadership.[7] (3) The most suitable moment to take action or make decisions based on circumstances.[8] (4) The appropriate or favorable moment to perform acts of charity or virtue.[9] (5) The right moment to engage in an action, particularly military, which leads to beneficial outcomes.[10]
From: Skanda Purana
(1) Refers to the appropriate moment when Narada came to counsel the Devas.[11] (2) The ideal moment for undertaking specific tasks or worship, reflecting the discipline of a devoted wife.[12] (3) The suitable or auspicious moment for performing rituals or applying sacred substances to ensure effectiveness.[13] (4) The right moment for Raghuttama to initiate his journey towards Lanka.[14] (5) The designated or auspicious moments for performing rituals and worship.[15]
From: Shiva Purana
(1) The auspicious moment when significant events, such as the birth of the goddess, were destined to happen, reflecting heavenly alignment and harmony.[16] (2) A moment deemed suitable by Narada for the sages to see the lord.[17] (3) The specific moments at which events occur, such as births, changes in fortune, or the effectiveness of medicines.[18] (4) The appropriate moment for actions to take place, emphasized as vital for success in tasks, especially in the context of Shiva's enjoyment.[19]
From: Padma Purana
(1) The correct moment when a gift should be given to maximize its benefits and merit.[20] (2) The moment when significant events occur in the story, notably when Citra's husband died and she was to marry.[21]
From: Markandeya Purana
(1) Specific auspicious moments recognized for conducting rituals that enhance their effectiveness.[22] (2) The opportune moment designated for performing certain rituals and offerings, underscoring the discipline in religious practice.[23]
From: Harivamsha Purana
(1) The moment deemed right for discussing the family's origin and taking action.[24] (2) This phrase emphasizes the importance of timing in a king's decision-making regarding conflicts.[25]
From: Garuda Purana
(1) The appropriate moment for a disciple to be initiated.[26] (2) A specific moment associated with rituals concerning death and offerings.[27]
From: Markandeya Purana (Study)
(1) The ideal moments for practicing yoga that can lead to significant improvements in a person's health and well-being.[28]
From: Anugita (English translation)
(1) An appropriate or suitable moment for undertaking an action or receiving alms.[29]
From: Agni Purana
(1) The appropriate moment when one reaps the benefits of their efforts and actions.[30]
From: Brahma Purana
(1) Indicates that the boys arrived in the colony at an ideal moment, aligning with events.[31]
From: Brahmanda Purana
(1) The right moment for an action to take place, which in this context, implies the need for caution in interactions.[32]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki
(1) The appropriate moment when Rama and his companions performed their worship to Agni and the Gods.[33]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) The immediate timeframe in which the keeper must notify his master for protection against liability.[34] (2) The appropriate moment when a boy should present himself for initiation, emphasizing the importance of timing in spiritual matters.[35] (3) The exact time prescribed for each caste to receive the sacrament or the secondary period that is permitted.[36] (4) An appropriate moment for an activity, such as sleeping or rising, free from external pressures or disturbances.[37] (5) The specific time prescribed for the performance of various sacraments that should not be transgressed.[38]
From: Apastamba Dharma-sutra
(1) The appropriate occasions for conducting specific ceremonies or rituals according to tradition.[39] (2) The appropriate moment deemed correct for the householder to engage in sexual relations with his wife according to the rules.[40]
From: Bharadvaja-srauta-sutra
(1) Refers to the specific timing during the rites when tasks should be completed to ensure the sacrificial process is carried out correctly.[41] (2) The appropriate moment designated for performing rituals or prayers, highlighting the importance of timing in sacred practices.[42]
From: Baudhayana Dharmasutra
(1) The appropriate timing for a ritual that is crucial for its successful completion.[43]
From: Gobhila-grihya-sutra
(1) The auspicious moments designated for performing ceremonies, specifically during the northern course of the sun before noon on an increasing moon.[44]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) Specific timings associated with the different kinds of music as taught by Goddess Sarasvati.[45] (2) A concept referring to the right moment for the performance or appreciation of music, essential for its effectiveness.[46] (3) The appropriate moments or timings in the context of musical performance.[47] (4) Proper time pertains to the astrological guidance provided by the brahmanas regarding the optimal timing for actions.[48] (5) proper time; refers to the appropriate or auspicious moment for the observance of dvadashi.[49]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) Indicates that the production of plants and herbs occurs in accordance with divine timing due to Krishna's mercy.[50] (2) The appropriate or expected moment to perform an action, which in the text refers to the usual time of waking up.[51] (3) The appropriate moment indicated by the Lord for a devotee to depart for another place.[52] (4) The specific and appropriate period designated for performing the practice of japa or quiet chanting.[53]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) The appropriate or auspicious moment that is considered suitable for making important decisions or actions.[54] (2) A suitable or appropriate moment for making an inquiry or seeking understanding, highlighting the significance of timing in spiritual discussions.[55]
From: Prem Sagar (English translation)
(1) A moment deemed appropriate for churning, indicating careful timing in the household activities.[56]
From: Harshacharita (socio-cultural Study)
(1) The appropriate stage in life at which Bana’s father conducted the upanayana samskara.[57] (2) Refers to the astrologically calculated time deemed most favorable for events, such as marriage or military expeditions.[58]
From: Mundaka Upanishad with Shankara’s Commentary
(1) The designated or appropriate moment for carrying out the rituals, essential for their effectiveness.[59]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad Bhashya Vartika
(1) The appropriate moment designated for making an offering.[60]
From: Rasa Jala Nidhi, vol 4: Iatrochemistry
(1) The appropriate times designated for eating meals to promote good digestion.[61] (2) The designated times when the patient must eat and drink, specifically when feeling hungry or thirsty.[62]
From: Shukra Niti by Shukracharya
(1) The appropriate moment to speak or act, reflecting consideration of circumstance.[63]
From: Shishupala-vadha (Study)
(1) The most suitable period for undertaking an action, such as going to war.[64]
From: Bhesajjakkhandhaka (Chapter on Medicine)
(1) The correct timing for consumption of medicines as prescribed by the Buddha, important for their effectiveness.[65] (2) A term that denotes the appropriate conditions under which animal fats should be accepted, cooked, and consumed, according to the Vinayas.[66]
From: Satapatha-brahmana
(1) The appropriate moment for performing the rites and actions related to the Soma-sacrifice.[67]
From: Vakyapadiya of Bhartrihari
(1) This concept involves the designated timing for events to happen, where nothing occurs before or after its intended moment.[68]
Jain concept of 'Proper time'
In Jainism, Proper time signifies key moments for actions such as meditation, spiritual advancement, and significant life events like births, highlighting the importance of timing in fulfilling destiny and facilitating mindful practices.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) The appropriate moment when Queen Vasundhara gave birth to her son, reinforcing the theme of destiny.[69] (2) The right moment for spiritual advancement, which Nandishena recognizes in relation to fulfilling his vow.[70] (3) A condition stated by Namuci regarding when he would choose to request a boon from Mahapadma.[71] (4) The right moment when Rohini gave birth to her son, according to the text.[72] (5) The appropriate moment in which an event occurs, specifically referring to the birth of Harishena.[73]
From: Uttaradhyayana Sutra
(1) The correct moment at which specific activities such as studying or meditating should begin, without disturbing others.[74] (2) The appropriate moment for performing actions, particularly in the context of a monk's daily routine.[75] (3) The appropriate moment for using speech that is blameless and concise, as emphasized for a monk.[76]
From: Acaranga-sutra
(1) The appropriate moment for a monk or nun to enter a householder's abode to collect alms.[77]
From: Sutrakritanga (English translation)
(1) The right moment to act or exert oneself in pursuits that lead to spiritual advancement.[78]
The concept of Proper time in local and regional sources
Proper time describes the optimal moments for significant actions: for infants, it represents when they can make requests, and in nature, it signifies the pivotal arrival of spring for renewal and growth.
From: Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints
(1) The appropriate moment for asking or requesting something significant, which an infant does not understand.[79]
From: Triveni Journal
(1) Indicates the ideal moment for the arrival of spring, which is crucial for renewal.[80]
The concept of Proper time in scientific sources
Proper time, as per Ayurvedic texts, signifies the optimal period for urine collection, which is suggested to be before sunrise, aligning with traditional practices for accurate health assessments.
From: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
(1) The recommended timing for collection of urine, specifically before sunrise as indicated in Ayurvedic texts.[81]