Significance of Sacred regions
The concept of a sacred region encompasses a variety of spiritual domains that are revered for their holiness and significance within various texts, including the Purana and Vedanta. These areas often represent inaccessible spiritual spaces, locations of moral and spiritual practices, and places that provide divine rewards upon one's earthly departure. Significant sites include those near the Ganga, Vrindavana, and Kurukshetra, as well as others deemed holy through divine actions or significant historical events, highlighting the importance of these locations in achieving spiritual fulfillment.
Synonyms: Sacred area, Holy site, Sacred ground, Hallowed place, Holy land, Hallowed ground
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 regions'
In Hinduism, the Sacred region encompasses spiritual territories, revered locations, and areas of divine significance associated with rituals, meditation, and the divine presence, believed to offer profound spiritual benefits and connection.
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) The desirable afterlife or heavenly realms that are promised to those who serve Brahmanas and lead righteous lives.[1] (2) The area transformed into a delightful locale dedicated to the deity through the offerings.[2] (3) The heavenly abode corresponding to the supreme divine, where souls experience celestial pleasures.[3] (4) A holy site associated with spiritual practices and sacrifices, believed to enhance the efficacy of rituals.[4] (5) Heavenly realms attained by individuals who die at Kurukshetra, as a result of Kuru's blessing.[5]
From: Skanda Purana
(1) Refers to Dharmaranya, a highly esteemed area on earth associated with great spiritual significance and merit.[6] (2) The spiritual territory associated with Maheshvara, from the pond known as Mandavya to the confluence of Reva and Amalaki.[7] (3) A hallowed area where divine and spiritual actions are believed to take place.[8] (4) Locations that are held in high spiritual regard for worship.[9] (5) The area near the city that holds the sixty-eight holy spots, recognized as a place of spiritual importance.[10]
From: Padma Purana
(1) The significant area known as Kurukshetra, where a brahmana named Kundala lived.[11] (2) Specific locations that are considered particularly holy and endowed with the capacity to bestow spiritual benefits.[12] (3) A designated area that is venerated and revered, particularly known for its holiness.[13]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki
(1) The areas illuminated by the sun, which were to be searched by the monkeys.[14] (2) An area known as Drumakulya, where robbers dwelled and which was pivotal in Rama's actions.[15]
From: Harivamsha Purana
(1) A spiritual domain that is inaccessible to women who indulge in curiosity leading to moral degradation.[16]
From: Brahmanda Purana
(1) Areas within the continent where people live without deaths for long periods and have no fears of famine, old age, or sickness.[17]
From: Gautami Mahatmya
(1) Other holy centres that are effective only when the holy centre presided over by three deities is not visited.[18]
From: Matsya Purana (critical study)
(1) This is a sacred region of Prayaga.[19]
From: Bhagavata Purana
(1) The area of Vrindavana that became sacred through the footprints of Krishna and Balarama.[20]
From: Linga Purana
(1) Holy places that are revered for their spiritual significance and are conducive to meditation and divine connection.[21]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) Spiritual domains attained through specific actions or duties performed by individuals in various life stages.[22] (2) Areas recognized as holy or divine, particularly those created or defined by the Gods.[23]
From: Chandogya Upanishad (Shankara Bhashya)
(1) The spiritual realms that one can attain by performing the duties of their life stage, differentiated from true immortality.[24]