Significance of Sacred figure
The keyphrase "sacred figure" encompasses various representations across religious traditions. In South Asia, it refers to sculpted images of saints and divine beings in Buddhist contexts, often present in viharas and stupas. In Vaishnavism, sacred figures include revered entities like Nityananda and Advaita. The Purana tradition highlights sacred figures as divine entities referenced in rituals, emphasizing their role in the spiritual embodiment of truth and justice. Overall, the term underscores both artistic and spiritual significance across religions.
Synonyms: Holy figure, Divine figure, Spiritual figure, Revered figure, Saintly figure, Holy person, Deity, Saint, Divinity, Idol, Prophet
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Sacred figure'
In Hinduism, a "Sacred figure" signifies holy or divine entities like Nityananda and Advaita, integral to rituals that emphasize the spiritual dimensions of truth and justice within the faith.
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) Entities that are regarded as holy or divine, including Nityananda and Advaita as mentioned.[1]
The concept of Sacred figure in local and regional sources
The keyphrase "Sacred figure" pertains to religious icons in Buddhism, including images brought by Fa-Hian, sculptured saints and Devas in towers, and representations of divinity found in viharas and stupas, symbolizing enlightenment.
From: Buddhist records of the Western world (Xuanzang)
(1) Icons in Buddhist tradition representing divinity and enlightenment; often found in viharas and stupas.[2] (2) Sculptured representations of saints, Devas, and Buddhas found in separate compartments on the tower.[3]
From: The travels of Fa-Hian (400 A.D.)
(1) Religious images related to Buddhism that were part of the cargo brought by Fa-Hian.[4]