Significance of River of blood
The phrase "River of blood" serves as a profound metaphor across different contexts, primarily illustrating the extensive violence and carnage resulting from battles. In Vaishnavism and Purana, it captures the aftermath of warfare, symbolizing the overwhelming scale of death, destruction, and the gruesome reality of battle. Additionally, it highlights themes of sacrifice and the emotional toll of conflict. In other narratives, it can also represent the violent repercussions of individual actions in society, emphasizing the tragic outcomes of jealousy and conflict.
Synonyms: Stream of blood, Flow of blood, Blood current, Blood river
In Dutch: Rivier van bloed; In Finnish: Veren joki
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 of blood'
In Buddhism, the "River of blood" symbolizes the deep-seated conflict among princes, reflecting the violence from jealousy and passion, and serves as a metaphor for the tragic outcomes of such conflicts leading to death.
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) A metaphorical expression indicating the outcome of violence and conflict resulting in death.[1] (2) A metaphor describing the extent of conflict among the princes, symbolizing the violence and tragedy arising from their jealousy and passion.[2]
Hindu concept of 'River of blood'
The "River of blood" in Hinduism symbolizes the brutal aftermath of battle, highlighting the significant loss and suffering of warriors, depicting the extensive carnage and chaos resulting from warfare. It serves as a vivid metaphor for the devastation of conflict.
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) A grim metaphor depicting the battlefield after a fierce fight, symbolizing the carnage and devastation left behind.[3] (2) A vivid and gruesome image created by Bhishma to signify the intense and deadly nature of the battle.[4] (3) The metaphorical description of the bloodshed that occurred during the battle, highlighting the violence and carnage.[5] (4) A dramatic portrayal of the extensive loss of life during the battle, resulting in a vast flow of blood.[6] (5) A metaphorical representation of the carnage caused by Arjuna, depicting the aftermath of battle as a flowing river constituted of blood.[7]
From: Padma Purana
(1) A metaphorical depiction of the battlefield filled with the consequences of war.[8] (2) A vivid image depicting the aftermath of battle, symbolizing the violence and the lives lost during the conflicts.[9] (3) A metaphor describing the aftermath of battle, highlighting the devastation and violence that occurred.[10]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) A vivid metaphor representing the consequences of battle, underscoring the brutality of war.[11] (2) A vivid metaphor highlighting the carnage of battle, where the blood of slain soldiers creates a river-like effect.[12]
From: Bhagavata Purana
(1) A metaphor for the devastation and revenge carried out by Parashurama against the Kshatriyas, instilling fear among them.[13]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki
(1) Describes the blood that flows from Shurpanakha’s severed nose and ears, emphasizing her suffering.[14]
From: Harivamsha Purana
(1) A poetic description of the aftermath of battle, likened to a stream filled with water.[15]
From: Lalitopakhyana (Lalita Mahatmya)
(1) A vivid depiction of the slaughter and carnage during the battle.[16]
From: Prem Sagar (English translation)
(1) A metaphorical phrase describing the extensive carnage resulting from the battle, emphasizing the violence and tragedy of war.[17] (2) Simile representing the blood streaming from Kesi's body upon its defeat.[18]
From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)
(1) A magical consequence of throwing a pomegranate, serving as a hindrance to pursuers in another tale, representing the transformative power of seemingly mundane objects.[19]
The concept of River of blood in local and regional sources
The keyphrase "River of blood" symbolizes the violent repercussions of Ramesh's terrorism, illustrating the horrific results of his actions and the broader impact of assault and conflict on society.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) A metaphor for the violent consequences of Ramesh's actions as a terrorist, depicting the gruesome outcomes of assault and conflict in society.[20] (2) A Tamil novel adapted into English, dealing with the issue of caste discrimination in India, based on a real-life tragedy involving Harijan laborers.[21]