Significance of Pure water
Synonyms: Distilled water, Clean water, Fresh water, Spring water, Deionized water, Purified water
In Dutch: Zuiver water; In Finnish: Puhdasta vettä; In Spanish: Agua pura
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Pure water'
In Buddhism, "pure water" symbolizes Dhyana, the cleansed mind, and the divine purification of the Bodhisattva. It metaphorically represents clarity, virtue, and the process of cleansing desires and ignorance to realize one's true nature.
From: Maha Buddhavamsa—The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) The state of the water that was achieved after it's clarity was restored upon Ananda's arrival at the stream.[1] (2) Used in a metaphorical context to represent the means through which negativity can be cleansed, symbolizing virtuous actions.[2]
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) Dhyana is the pure water (vishuddhajala) that can wash away the dust of desire (ragarajas).[3]
From: Shurangama Sutra (with commentary) (English)
(1) Represents the purified mind free from ignorance; it's devoid of falsehood and symbolizes the realization of one's true nature.[4]
From: The Fo-Sho-Hing-Tsan-King (A Life of Buddha)
(1) Streams that descended from heaven to baptize the Bodhisattva, representing purification and blessing.[5]
From: The Great Chariot
(1) A metaphorical representation of the clear, untainted nature of the mind.[6]
Hindu concept of 'Pure water'
In Hinduism, Pure water symbolizes spiritual purity, clarity, and cleanliness, representing the Atma's essence, facilitating rituals, cleansing sins, and serving as a metaphor for devotion and service without personal gain.
From: Skanda Purana
(1) The waters in which the discus fell after it split the Danava into two, contributing to the Tirtha's sanctity.[7] (2) Describes Ganga's waters as immaculate and capable of cleansing sins.[8] (3) The clear water in the tank created by King Dasharatha, regarded as holy and used in rituals.[9] (4) Water from the river Suvarnamukhari that is considered free from impurities, likened to nectar.[10] (5) Water deemed sacred, essential for performing holy baths and rites to achieve spiritual benefits.[11]
From: Padma Purana
(1) Water considered sacred, used for bathing and rituals to purify the individuals participating in the Tulasi-vow.[12] (2) Clean water used in rituals for worship, symbolizing purification and offering to Vishnu.[13] (3) Uncontaminated and holy water, specifically referencing the Ganges as it flows from Kailasa.[14] (4) Water that is deemed holy and is used during religious rituals, believed to carry divine properties.[15] (5) Symbolizes spiritual cleansing and the desire for divine intervention, related to the worship of the river goddess Ganga.[16]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki
(1) Symbolizes cleanliness and purity, emphasizing the care taken in serving Rama and Sita.[17] (2) A desired condition for the environment of the revived monkeys, representing cleanliness and abundance.[18] (3) Clean and refreshing drinking water provided to the attendees, symbolizing hospitality and care.[19] (4) Clean and untainted water, enhancing the serene atmosphere of the cave.[20] (5) The water brought back from sacred places and streams for the ceremonial bathing of Sugriva.[21]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) Water that is considered clean and sacred, often associated with rituals to purify the soul.[22] (2) Water that is used in rituals and everyday practices, symbolizing cleanliness and purification.[23] (3) Clean and uncontaminated water found in the lake, representing refreshment and purity.[24] (4) Clean, fresh water that is sought after by the snakes and regarded as important for enjoyment.[25]
From: Agni Purana
(1) Waters that are used in rituals, considered to be clean and sanctified.[26] (2) Used in cleansing and ritual acts to signify purity and refreshment following spiritual practices.[27] (3) Consecrated water that is mentioned as essential for purification and spiritual practices involving Gayatri.[28]
From: Harivamsha Purana
(1) Nectar-like hydration produced from the Lord's own energy, forming a crucial part of the creation of the universe's elements.[29] (2) The life-giving substance that Krishna uses to pacify and rejuvenate the earth.[30] (3) Water discharged by rising clouds through springs, described as being crystal clear.[31]
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) A representation of Suchi's virtuous nature and righteousness, compared to a heavy cloud.[32] (2) Refers to the spiritually cleansing quality of the Ganges, which Bhagiratha aims to use for the salvation of his ancestors.[33]
From: Shiva Purana
(1) Water that is sanctified and sprinkled during the worship to maintain purity in rituals.[34] (2) Water that is cleansed and used for the ablution of the Linga and performance of rituals.[35]
From: Anugita (English translation)
(1) Water that is clean and free from contaminants, often used symbolically for purity in both body and mind.[36]
From: Bhagavata Purana
(1) The result of Krishna's action, as the Yamuna was cleansed of poison after his intervention with Kaliya.[37]
From: Linga Purana
(1) Indicates water free from impurities, used for ritualistic bathing of deities.[38]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) The highly pure water from the rivers in the Dvipas, vital for purity and sanctity in rituals.[39]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) Water that is free from impurities and is regarded as clean and sanctifying.[40] (2) Water that is free from impurities and foam, suitable for religious rituals.[41] (3) Symbolizes the essence of purity and is often invoked in sandhya rituals for cleansing and worship purposes.[42] (4) Water considered to be clean and untainted, symbolizing the ideal state of things in the context of devotion.[43] (5) Water that is uncontaminated and clean, often associated with purity and clarity.[44]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) Water that is clean and free from impurities, often associated with spiritual or ritual significance.[45] (2) Waters that are clean and untainted, enhancing the beauty of rivers, streams, oceans, and lakes.[46] (3) Describes the state of the rivers after Radha's descent, indicating clarity and cleanliness.[47] (4) Water that is clean and uncontaminated, referred to as 'nirmala paniya' in the text.[48]
From: Tiruvaymoli (Thiruvaimozhi): English translation
(1) Represents the purity of offerings that are expected in devotion to the Lord.[49] (2) Symbolizes the service offered to the Lord, which is to be done without seeking personal benefits.[50] (3) Another common offering in worship that signifies purity and devotion; not presented by the Alvar in this context.[51]
From: Prem Sagar (English translation)
(1) Water that is described in the narrative as a significant natural aspect of Mathura, contributing to its beauty and vitality.[52] (2) The clean water that filled the tanks during the favorable season and symbolized rejuvenation.[53]
From: Chaitanya Mangala
(1) Refers to the clear and sacred waters of the Ganga, which are worshiped by devotees and symbolize spiritual purity.[54]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) Water that is free from impurities and is fit for use, particularly as noted by its ability to quench a cow's thirst.[55]
From: Apastamba Dharma-sutra
(1) Water that has been collected on the ground, which is associated with purity.[56]
From: Asvalayana-grihya-sutra
(1) Clean water used in rituals, signifying purification and blessings.[57]
From: Gobhila-grihya-sutra
(1) Water that is provided to the invited Brahmanas, symbolizing purification prior to the sacrificial proceedings.[58]
From: Bharadvaja-srauta-sutra
(1) Water that is clean and uncontaminated, highlighted in the ritual context for drinking or offerings.[59]
From: Rasa Jala Nidhi, vol 3: Metals, Gems and other substances
(1) Water that is free of impurities, used for dissolving Barth and filtering the mixture.[60] (2) Water that is free from impurities, maintained in a state that is beneficial and soothing.[61] (3) This water is described as being absolutely pure, highlighting its cleanliness and lack of contaminants.[62]
From: Rasa Jala Nidhi, vol 1: Initiation, Mercury and Laboratory
(1) Water that is clean and uncontaminated, essential for the operations of the laboratory and metallurgical processes.[63]
From: Satapatha-brahmana
(1) Representations of divine waters that carry the sacrifice to the gods, emphasizing the importance of purity in the rituals.[64] (2) Water described as pure, contrasting with the impurity of man due to his untruths.[65]
From: Vakyapadiya of Bhartrihari
(1) An analogy used to illustrate the concept of purity that gets tainted when it comes into contact with external, unwanted elements like dust.[66]
From: Kathopanishad (Madhva commentary)
(1) Symbolizes the essence of the Atma (self) of a liberated sage which becomes similar to the Brahman but does not attain identity.[67]
Jain concept of 'Pure water'
In Jainism, "Pure water" signifies water free from impurities essential for life, cleanliness in rituals, and spiritual purification. It symbolizes cleansing forces, used in rituals and ceremonies, representing sanctity, health, and the renewal of the soul.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) The water used by King Sagara for an auspicious bath, symbolizing cleanliness and purification before worship.[68] (2) A metaphor for the knowledge gained from scriptures that cleanses the soul of impurities.[69] (3) Clear and uncontaminated water in the moat of the city, likened to a mirror.[70] (4) Water brought from oceans, rivers, and pools for ceremonial bathing, representing purity and sanctity in the coronation rituals.[71] (5) The water that Nandishena successfully finds and offers to the false muni to cure him.[72]
From: Bhagavati-sutra (Viyaha-pannatti)
(1) Symbolizes the cleansing force needed to purify one's being from negative karmic influences, akin to the role of wholesome actions in achieving spiritual cleanliness.[73]
From: Sutrakritanga (English translation)
(1) Water considered to be free from impurities that is vital for the sustenance of life and cleanliness in rituals.[74]
From: Acaranga-sutra
(1) Water that has been processed, altered, or ensured to be clean and safe for consumption.[75]
From: Kalpa-sutra (Lives of the Jinas)
(1) Water that is untainted and used for cleansing and bathing, ensuring health and ritual purity.[76]
The concept of Pure water in local and regional sources
Pure water symbolizes deceit and dishonesty, representing how individuals may act untruthfully when they believe they are not being observed, highlighting the contrast between appearances and underlying moral integrity.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) Symbolic representation of deceit and the failure of individuals to act with honesty when they think they won't be watched.[77]
The concept of Pure water in scientific sources
Pure waters are characterized by their clarity and absence of impurities, making them safe for consumption. They are recognized for their slight astringent and sweet taste, highlighting their quality and health benefits.
From: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
(1) The solvent used in the experimental procedures for both the extraction of plant materials and as a control in assays.[78] (2) Water that is free from impurities and pollutants, considered beneficial for health and sacred in Ayurveda.[79]
From: International Ayurvedic Medical Journal
(1) Described as a slight astringent and sweet water, noted for its clarity and lack of impurities, making it safe for consumption.[80]