Significance of Raised seat

Raised seats have distinct meanings in both Purana and Theravada contexts. In Purana, they are considered pedestals or thrones used for placing deities during worship, emphasizing reverence for the divine. In contrast, Theravada interprets raised seats as the seating that theras deliberately refrain from using, which symbolizes their humility and ascetic lifestyle. Thus, raised seats highlight the contrasting approaches to reverence and humility in these traditions.1

Synonyms: Elevated seat, High chair, Chair

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Buddhist concept of 'Raised seat'

Buddhism Books

Raised seats in Buddhism symbolize humility, as they are choices intentionally avoided by the theras. This practice reflects a commitment to modesty and prioritizing spiritual over material status within the community.

Significance of Raised seats in Theravada (major branch of Buddhism):

Theravada Books

From: Mahavamsa

(1) Seating that the theras chose not to use, signifying their humility.^[1]

Theravada is a major branch of Buddhism having the the Pali canon (tipitaka) as their canonical literature, which includes the vinaya-pitaka (monastic rules), the sutta-pitaka (Buddhist sermons) and the abhidhamma-pitaka (philosophy and psychology).

Hindu concept of 'Raised seat'

Hinduism Books

In Hinduism, "Raised seats" signify a pedestal or throne for deities during worship, emphasizing their importance and reverence in religious rituals. This practice underscores the sacredness and honor attributed to divine figures in ceremonies.

Significance of Raised seats in Purana and Itihasa (epic history):

Purana Books

From: Skanda Purana

(1) A pedestal or throne designated for the placement of deities during worship.^[2]

The Purana refers to Sanskrit literature preserving ancient India’s vast cultural history, including historical legends, religious ceremonies, various arts and sciences. The eighteen mahapuranas total over 400,000 shlokas (metrical couplets) and date to at least several centuries BCE.

Plural form: Raised seats.

Last Updated: 21 September, 2024