Significance of Root
Synonyms: Foundation, Base, Origin, Source, Primary, Core, Anchor, Trunk, Rootstock
In Malay: Akar; In Swedish: Rot; In Dutch: Wortel; In Finnish: Juuri; In Spanish: Raíz; In German: Wurzel; In French: Racine; In Italian: Radice; In Portugese: Raiz; In Polish: Źródło
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Root'
In Buddhism, "Root" signifies the origin of desire, needing early eradication like a tree's base. It represents fundamental principles, which are foolishly abandoned for superficial gains. Severing good roots leads to negative consequences, as exemplified by Devadatta and Sunaksatra.
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) A root is essential for a tree's growth, and its absence is compared to ignorance lacking a true basis, yet still causing effects.[1] (2) Exertion is the root of all good dharmas, capable of giving rise to all virtuous qualities, including supreme perfect enlightenment, and lesser benefits.[2] (3) Speaking about the root of a problem, such as the three poisons, inherently means that one already knows about the branches that emanate from that root, like the specific passions involved.[3] (4) Roots, or mula, are the underlying structures of trees and plants that determine how much rain they receive, analogous to how spiritual foundations affect the degree of spiritual benefit obtained.[4] (5) The ten forces together constitute the root of unhindered liberation, according to some scholars, indicating their fundamental role in achieving freedom.[5]
From: Shurangama Sutra (with commentary) (English)
(1) The root is something renounced when one grasps at branches, symbolizing the abandonment of fundamental principles for superficial ones.[6]
From: Mahayana Mahaparinirvana Sutra
(1) The root of all things, and the qualities of the top, middle, and low, and the roots of good, which one can sever oneself from, and which Sunaksatra was far away from.[7]
From: Vinaya Pitaka (4): Parivara
(1) Twelve roots are considered in the context of a legal question concerning disputes.[8]
From: A Manual of Abhidhamma
(1) Roots, or mula, constitute the subject matter of the first chapter in the Yamaka treatise, exemplified by the paired questions concerning wholesome Dhammas and wholesome roots.[9] (2) This is one of the factors considered during the classification of consciousness and mental states, as indicated.[10]
From: Dhammapada (translated from the Pali)
(1) This is a metaphor used to describe the origin of thirst, which must be dug up, and also represents the basis of a tree's stability, which if safe, allows it to grow again.[11]
From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) The wise destroy the root before it comes to seed, highlighting the importance of early action.[12]
From: Tattvasangraha [with commentary]
(1) The root signifies the fundamental element of non-apprehension, specifically the non-apprehension of the nature of the thing itself, from which all other forms stem.[13]
Hindu concept of 'Root'
In Hinduism, "root" signifies plant origins used medicinally, in rituals, and as sustenance. It also denotes the core of words/actions, influencing meaning and outcomes, and can symbolize origins or foundations.
From: Vakyapadiya of Bhartrihari
(1) These grammatical elements can possess the meaning of motion, which is not considered a mistake.[14] (2) These verbal elements, when associated with a specific grammatical inflection, do not possess the same semantic range as other elements that express a particular type of action or state.[15] (3) The meaning of a root can serve as the basis for the derivation of a word. However, some perspectives emphasize the form of the word over the meaning of its root for derivation.[16] (4) A root can have different uses, and these uses are sometimes imagined to be the same due to sound similarity, even though they might be as distinct as ‘√pac’ and ‘√sidh’.[17] (5) The principles discussed regarding the root √pac, concerning its meanings and applications, are intended to apply to all of these.[18]
From: Bhesajjakkhandhaka (Chapter on Medicine)
(1) Roots are vegetal parts utilized as medicinal substances and are permitted for lifelong use, with their inclusion being noted in the Dharmaguptaka and Mahasamghika Vinayas.[19]
From: Journal of Ayurveda and Integrated Medical Sciences
(1) It is a part of the plant that contains a variety of active components such as alkaloids, steroids, and glycosides, and is used for the treatment of cancer.[20] (2) These are the underground parts of plants, often used in Ayurvedic medicine for their therapeutic properties, and are a key component in herb identification.[21] (3) The root of the plant contains flavonoid glycosides, which are useful for anti-aging, antioxidant, and moisturizing effects.[22] (4) This refers to the part of the plant from which extracts were prepared for analgesic activity tests.[23] (5) These are the part of the Madayantika plant that is used for various purposes, and the text provides their uses, and is beneficial.[24]
From: Charaka Samhita (English translation)
(1) These are of the red physic nut and the physic nut that are strong, thick, resemble an elephant’s tusk, and are dark or coppery in color.[25]
From: Journal of Ayurvedic and Herbal Medicine
(1) It is a part of the plant that is coolant, aphrodisiac & used in generalized oedema of body according to the classical uses.[26] (2) This refers to the part of a plant that grows underground, and it is often used for medicinal purposes because it contains higher medicinal properties for the body.[27]
From: International Research Journal of Ayurveda and Yoga
(1) This part of S. xanthocarpum is cylindrical, branched, tapering, 5–8 mm in diameter, with longitudinal striations, scars, and lenticels, and tastes bitter.[28] (2) This part of Punarnava (Boerhaavia diffusa Linn.) is indicated for diseases affecting different body systems and has high therapeutic value.[29]
From: Apastamba Dharma-sutra
(1) Roots are among the natural food items that are exempt from the rules on food spoilage.[30] (2) Roots are identified as a source of sustenance or livelihood, grouped with fruits and various types of grass and wood.[31] (3) These are underground parts of plants that anchor them in the soil and absorb water and nutrients.[32]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) These food items are cleansed with water or by removing the contaminated portion.[33] (2) These natural items are considered lawful merchandise and can be trafficked with, provided they have not been previously bought.[34] (3) Items that, along with grains, vegetables and fruits, should be washed with water after throwing away the defiled portion.[35] (4) The purification of vegetables, roots, and fruits resembles that of grains, indicating a similar cleansing approach.[36] (5) Roots can be used to sustain life in the event of failing to obtain alms, indicating that one can sustain life by using fruits, roots and water as long as they do not belong to another person.[37]
From: Gobhila-grihya-sutra
(1) These parts of the handful of grass are dipped into the Ajya or Havis.[38]
From: Gautama Dharmasutra
(1) A spontaneously offered item that must not be refused, along with fruits and honey.[39]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) Roots are among the offerings that, if given at Sraddhas, gratify the Pitris for a period of one month, and when mixed with honey, can make the offering inexhaustible.[40] (2) Time was described as the root of all, influencing the rise and fall of individuals and events.[41] (3) The text refers to living on fruit and "roots" while wandering in the forest.[42]
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) The mind is the root that grows the plants of our good and evil and all our weal and woe, and it is also the tree of the world.[43]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) Roots are carried by the Goddess, contributing to the nourishment and sustenance of those in need.[44]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Shastri)
(1) The root is mentioned in the context of the analogy of cutting at the root of a sweet mango tree to plant a nimba tree, highlighting a foolish action.[45] (2) These were pure, and were found with fruits and other foods.[46]
From: Garuda Purana
(1) These are food items, which are to be avoided during the term of the vow.[47]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Griffith)
(1) This refers to the origin or foundation of the group's plans, and Angad's presence is essential for their plans.[48]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) The trees fell with their roots, indicating they were completely uprooted.[49]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) Underground plant parts that can be consumed, usually as food.[50] (2) A type of food that is typically found underground, indicating a natural and essential source of nutrition.[51]
From: Brihat Samhita
(1) Roots, as a form of sustenance, will suffer if Pulaha is affected, indicating that the underground produce is linked to the well-being of this particular Rishi.[52] (2) These are parts of plants that are associated with the sign of Cancer and Sagittarius, representing their connection to the astrological framework.[53]
From: Hayanaratna: The Jewel of Annual Astrology
(1) If the sun is strong, the text indicates that the food will be made from this, influencing the character of the meal.[54]
From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)
(1) Roots were eaten by Sundaraka for sustenance and also taken from the garden of herbs to sell in the market.[55] (2) The ichneumon and the mouse dwelt in separate holes in this part of the tree.[56]
From: Rasa Jala Nidhi, vol 3: Metals, Gems and other substances
(1) The roots of the nirgundi plant are powdered and mixed with its juice, then used to smear lead and tin for purification, followed by drying in the sun.[57] (2) These are one of the different forms of inorganic poisons.[58]
From: Satapatha-brahmana
(1) This is what the Soma-cups took after being tilted over and turned downwards, forming Nyagrodha trees.[59] (2) The term describes the part of the sacrificial grass that is cut off near, highlighting a specific detail of the ritual.[60]
From: Kautilya Arthashastra
(1) Roots are subject to a toll of ⅙th, which the superintendent receives, and are listed with vegetables, bulbous roots, and other agricultural products that are taxed.[61]
From: Manasara (English translation)
(1) The root of the tail is described as half a part, and the text indicates that it should taper towards the tip.[62]
From: Bharadvaja-srauta-sutra
(1) A verse is recited concerning these of the plants which have been cut, with the hope that the plants will be auspicious and well-invoked.[63]
From: Kena Upanishad with Shankara’s Commentary
(1) The root is mentioned in relation to the naming of Vayu, indicating its origin from a specific linguistic source.[64]
Jain concept of 'Root'
In Jainism, "Root" signifies a foundational, perceptible part of a tree, one of ten such elements. Notably, this "Root" is also something that is consumed.
From: Acaranga-sutra
(1) The "root" is closely associated with quality, indicating that it is fundamental and essential, with its seat being quality itself, highlighting the reciprocal relationship.[65]
From: Bhagavati-sutra (Viyaha-pannatti)
(1) This is one of the ten parts of a tree, which is a foundational element that can be observed or perceived, according to the provided text.[66]
From: Naladiyar
(1) This is eaten.[67]
The concept of Root in local and regional sources
Root signifies origins, fundamental causes, and nurturing hope. It references King Asoka's care for a tree's root, the power coiled within it, and the need to address fundamental issues.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) The foundation or basis of something, as in trust taking root in the heart.[68] (2) Roots of the cocoanut tree need to be fed with water. By feeding the roots, you can get sweet milk from its top.[69] (3) This is where the coiled-in power brings growth upon the tree.[70]
From: Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints
(1) The roots are mentioned in relation to a flower receiving sap, symbolizing the source of nourishment, analogous to how Eknath believes his devotion to his sadguru will bring him closer to Dattatreya.[71] (2) These are the problematic elements from a tree that have grown too close to a sacred resting place, causing harm and needing to be pushed aside.[72]
From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda
(1) The underground parts of trees are being wrenched from their position, causing the trees to be uprooted by a powerful environmental force.[73] (2) The origin, as mentioned in the text.[74] (3) This refers to the fundamental cause of an issue, where the focus should be to remove it for the desired effect.[75]
From: The travels of Fa-Hian (400 A.D.)
(1) The part of the Pei-to tree that King Asoka tended to after its cutting, symbolizing his nurturing spirit and hope for revival.[76]
The concept of Root in scientific sources
Root, in this text, refers to the underground part of various plants, examined for medicinal properties, active compounds, and traditional uses, while in one case, it refers to a part of the nervous system.
From: Sustainability Journal (MDPI)
(1) Roots of Canna indica showed the highest concentration of heavy metals after treating refinery wastewater, indicating their primary role in absorbing and retaining these pollutants.[77] (2) The downregulation of PIP gene expression in these organs of citrus plants is key to their ability to tolerate water scarcity.[78] (3) The underground part of a plant that anchors it in the soil and absorbs water and nutrients, crucial for plant survival and growth.[79]
From: International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health (MDPI)
(1) Roots, in the analytical framework, represent the underlying worldviews that are embedded within a historical context and fundamentally influence the arguments and subsequent practices put forth by the different social groups.[80] (2) The use of roots accounted for 17.40% of the citation frequency in the Pasvalys study, but only 7% in the archival data.[81] (3) The provided text mentions a new method which gives an objective measure of colonization of roots by vesicular-arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi.[82]
From: International Journal of Pharmacology
(1) Roots of Levisticum officinale have strong anti porcine pancreatic lipase activity.[83] (2) Crude extracts, semi purified and pure compounds from these have already been evaluated in vitro against Plasmodium strains.[84] (3) These are reported to have anti-fertility and anti-ulcer activities according to the text provided.[85]
From: Asian Journal of Pharmaceutics
(1) These are the underground parts of the E. spinosus plant, which contain 704.34 mg EC/100 g dry matter of tannins in the aqueous extract.[86] (2) It is one of the plant parts of Achyranthes aspera that was studied for quantitative components, total antioxidant activity, and free radical scavenging activities.[87] (3) The part of the hair located beneath the skin, also known as hair roots.[88]
From: Onderstepoort Journal of Veterinary Research
(1) This is one of the two parts of the emu tongue.[89]
From: South African Family Practice
(1) This is a part of the nervous system, and an injury to it can cause peripheral neuropathic pain, which is a classification of neuropathic pain.[90]
From: Journal of Public Health in Africa
(1) This refers to a part of a plant that contains cytotoxic constituents, and is being studied.[91]
From: International Journal of Pharmacology
(1) The part of Sphenocentrum jollyanum Pierre that is bright yellow, has a sour taste, and is used for various medicinal purposes.[92] (2) A part of the Nelumbo nucifera plant that is edible and found in traditional recipes and folklore.[93] (3) Part of the Rumex patientia L. plant from which an aqueous extract was studied for antiinflammatory properties.[94]
From: Religions Journal (MDPI)
(1) In the context of the text, roots are the destination to which things return, indicating a return to their origin or fundamental nature.[95] (2) This serves as the fundamental source or origin from which something arises, whether it be embers for fires, the mind for memory, consciousness in sleep, or a deity for the world.[96] (3) Without this, there would be nothing to harvest; it is something hidden that causes growth and requires cultivation.[97]
Classical concept of 'Root'
From: Aesop's Fables (English translation)
(1) Roots are a staple food for the Country Mouse, gathered from the hedgerow, symbolizing the natural and somewhat meager provisions available in his rural setting.[98] (2) The part of the tree that the axe blows were aimed at, but the tree does not care about the **roots** being targeted.[99] (3) Roots are referenced in Jupiter's explanation, suggesting that the axe is frequently laid to the roots of the oaks because they are seen as a valuable resource by humans.[100]