Significance of River Ganga
Synonyms: Ganges, Ganga river, Ganges river, Ganga
In Dutch: Rivier de Ganges; In Finnish: Ganga joki; In Spanish: Río Ganges
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'River Ganga'
In Buddhism, River Ganga represents a vital geographical landmark between Rajagaha and Vesali, symbolizing spiritual journeys. It embodies the misconception of rebirth through physical means, emphasizing instead purity of motivation as key to spiritual outcomes.
From: Maha Buddhavamsa—The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) The significant river mentioned in the text that flows between Rajagaha and Vesali.[1] (2) The river that the Buddha crossed, which is described as full and challenging to cross without assistance.[2]
From: Bodhisattvacharyavatara
(1) A holy river in India, mistakenly believed by some that it offers rebirth in the god realms, when in truth it is the altruistic motivation of individuals that determines such outcomes.[3]
Hindu concept of 'River Ganga'
In Hinduism, River Ganga is a sacred and revered waterway symbolizing purity, spiritual cleansing, and divine origins. It is associated with numerous myths and practices, facilitating salvation for those who bathe or remember it.
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) The river thought to be brought to the mortal world by Sagara's descendants through austerities, signifying a path to purification.[4] (2) The sacred river that accepted the divine seed from Agni and facilitated its growth into Skanda.[5] (3) The sacred river where the events of Santanu's encounter with his son Devavrata took place.[6] (4) The holy river where Pratipa practiced asceticism and where the celestial maiden approached him.[7] (5) A sacred river in Hinduism to which Manu took the fish upon its request for a better habitat.[8]
From: Skanda Purana
(1) A sacred river that is said to sanctify the three worlds, critical to the narrative surrounding Kashi.[9] (2) A highly revered river flowing through heaven, earth, and lower regions, serving as a destination for pilgrims and divine beings.[10] (3) The river Ganga is referred to as Mandakini and is mentioned as joining the river Sarasvati, where taking a bath is said to free individuals from sins.[11] (4) A holy river in Hinduism that is believed to flow from the Himalaya and represents purity.[12]
From: Shiva Purana
(1) A holy river flowing from Brahma's city, branching into four streams, each flowing in different directions.[13] (2) A sacred river in India, symbolizing purity and spiritual significance.[14] (3) A highly revered river in the Himalaya mountains associated with numerous holy centres and known for its cleansing properties.[15]
From: Agni Purana
(1) A river considered supreme and revered in spiritual practices, noted for its purity.[16] (2) A sacred river said to purify one through mere remembrance, flowing from the realm of Vishnu.[17] (3) The river Ganga, also referred to as Ganges, is revered for its greatness and is essential for enjoyment and liberation.[18]
From: Brahmanda Purana
(1) A holy river representing purity and sustenance, linked to the moon and fundamental in cultural and religious contexts.[19] (2) One of the important rivers used by inhabitants of Bharata for drinking and other purposes.[20] (3) The holy river that plays a significant role in the story involving king Jahnu.[21]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki
(1) A sacred river adorned by sages, flowing with cool waters in three directions, celebrated for its spiritual significance and beauty, compared to a lovely woman.[22] (2) Another term for the holy Ganga, emphasizing its significance and the divine origins associated with it.[23]
From: Harivamsha Purana
(1) The Sacred river that Narada addresses as having many lakes and adorned with animals.[24] (2) A sacred river in India, revered as the foremost of streams.[25]
From: Gautami Mahatmya
(1) A sacred river requested by Gautama, symbolizing purity and the ultimate path to salvation.[26] (2) A sacred river in Hinduism that is stationed in the matted hair of Lord Shiva and later reaches the mortal world.[27]
From: Vishnu Purana (Taylor)
(1) A sacred river that flows around Brahma’s city, originating from the heavens.[28] (2) A sacred river in Hinduism, known for its purifying qualities and divine origin.[29]
From: Bhagavad-gita-mahatmya
(1) The sacred river where a great devotee of Lord Vishnu, Vat, lived and who played a pivotal role in the redemption of Pingala and Aruna.[30]
From: Nilamata Purana
(1) The sacred river in Hindu belief, often personified as the goddess Ganga.[31]
From: Vishnu Purana
(1) A sacred river emanating from Vishnu’s foot, symbolizing purity and spiritual liberation, nourishing the world and providing salvation to those who immerse in its waters.[32]
From: Brihaddharma Purana (abridged)
(1) A sacred river that will vanish among other significant spiritual entities during Kali Yuga.[33]
From: Padma Purana
(1) A sacred river in Hindu belief, revered for its purifying qualities and its capacity to cleanse sins.[34]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) The river that offers shelter to the Yamuna and is integral to the significance of Prayaga.[35]
From: Tiruvaymoli (Thiruvaimozhi): English translation
(1) A sacred river that received sanctification from the touch of the Lord’s feet, symbolizing the purification of holy entities.[36]
From: Dvisahasri of Tembesvami (Summary and Study)
(1) A sacred river in India, known for its spiritual significance and the belief that bathing in it cleanses sins.[37]
Jain concept of 'River Ganga'
In Jainism, River Ganga symbolizes a sacred waterway originating from lake Padma, encircling the earth, and highlighting critical events in the Lord's journey, recognized for its 14,000 tributaries as per the sutras.
From: Tattvartha Sutra (with commentary)
(1) A river that rises from lake Padma and flows through its eastern archway.[38] (2) One of the primary rivers indicated, noted for having 14,000 tributaries as stated in the sutra.[39]
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) The river described as being like a scarf around the earth and significant for the events that unfolded during the Lord's journey.[40]
The concept of River Ganga in scientific sources
The River Ganga is highlighted in the Charaka Samhita as a major river with healthful qualities, emphasizing its importance in traditional treatment practices and its historical cultural significance in health and wellness.
From: AYU (Journal of Research in Ayurveda)
(1) One of the major rivers referenced in Charaka Samhita, noted for its healthful qualities and significance in treatment practices.[41]
From: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
(1) A major river in India that is culturally significant and is subject to various anthropogenic activities affecting its water quality.[42]