Significance of Sacred thread
The sacred thread serves as a vital symbol across various traditions in Hinduism, representing spiritual initiation and purity. In Jainism, it symbolizes spiritual progression and is associated with significant transformations. Vaishnavism and other traditions regard it as a marker of commitment to religious duties, often linked with rites of passage, such as the Upanayana ceremony for Brahmins. This thread signifies a person's spiritual identity, roles, and responsibilities within their cultural and religious practices, highlighting its importance in rituals and ceremonies.
Synonyms: Yajnopavita, Sacred cord, Holy thread
In Dutch: Heilige draad
In Finnish: Pyhä lanka
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 thread'
The Sacred Thread in Hinduism symbolizes spiritual initiation, purity, and commitment to religious duties. It marks a Brahmin's transition into higher spiritual status, serving as a vital component in various rituals and practices.
From: Skanda Purana
(1) A ceremonial thread that symbolizes spiritual initiation and is significant in the context of various rites.[1] (2) An object often denoting purity and sanctity, symbolically used to emphasize a divine connection.[2] (3) Items offered during rituals that symbolize purity and are part of the gifts made to Brahmanas at the conclusion of a Vrata.[3] (4) A symbol of the spiritual initiation and status in sacred rituals, exemplified by Shiva's adornments.[4] (5) A traditional ceremonial thread that symbolizes the initiation into spiritual responsibilities.[5]
From: Padma Purana
(1) A ceremonial thread cut off by Jalandhara, symbolizing a break from sacred duties or identity.[6] (2) An important symbol of commitment and identity for brahmanas, highlighting their spiritual responsibilities.[7] (3) Symbolic items representing religious and cultural significance, often used in rituals, particularly during acts of veneration to brahmanas.[8] (4) A ritual cord symbolizing initiation and spiritual authority among the sages.[9] (5) A religious symbol often worn by devotees, representing their commitment to spiritual practices.[10]
From: Shiva Purana
(1) A symbol of spiritual initiation to signify one's status as a twice-born individual.[11] (2) Ritual threads used in Hindu practices, symbolizing purity and spiritual identity.[12] (3) A thread worn by Brahmins symbolizing their spiritual status and responsibilities.[13] (4) A holy thread that is significant in the rituals and denotes initiation or belonging.[14] (5) An emblem of spiritual commitment worn during the performance of rites.[15]
From: Agni Purana
(1) An emblematic object associated with Vinayaka, often indicating purity and spiritual connection.[16] (2) A thread that is spun by a brahmin woman made of gold, silver, copper, silk, or cotton, which is used in the rite of investiture and worship.[17] (3) Threads used in rituals that symbolize the connection among various spiritual principles and practitioners.[18] (4) A holy thread offered during the ritual for purifying oneself and completing rites.[19] (5) A ceremonial cord used in various rituals, carrying symbolic meanings of purity and protection.[20]
From: Bhagavata Purana
(1) The syllable ‘OM’, considered sacred, symbolizing the essence of the Vedas and spiritual knowledge.[21] (2) A ritual symbol of initiation into spiritual studies, often viewed as a mark of spiritual purity in Vedic traditions.[22] (3) A symbol of initiation into the Vedic rituals and knowledge, associated with the upanayana ceremony.[23] (4) An initiation ceremony (Upanayana) that signifies the second birth for certain varnas and grants eligibility for spiritual studies.[24] (5) A thread worn by twice-born individuals as a mark of their spiritual initiation and commitment to study the Vedas.[25]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) This is a symbolic thread worn by individuals, representing a rite of passage and spiritual awakening.[26] (2) A traditional symbol worn by Brahmanas, signifying their religious and educational status, which Drona adorned during the event.[27] (3) A religiously significant string, often used in Hindu rituals to denote purity and a rite of passage.[28] (4) A thread worn by the being, symbolizing spiritual identity and connection to significant power.[29] (5) A symbol of a person's birth order and responsibilities, which one may discard upon entering the state of renunciation.[30]
From: Linga Purana
(1) A holy string symbolizing the connection to spirituality, often worn by devotees.[31] (2) A thread worn in certain religious practices, signifying purity and spiritual identity.[32] (3) An important ritual item offered to the deity symbolizing purity and spiritual awakening.[33] (4) A ceremonial thread that symbolizes the initiation of a young man into spiritual and religious responsibilities, marking a rite of passage.[34] (5) A ceremonial thread worn by brahmins that is associated with different rituals based on the context of worship.[35]
From: Garuda Purana
(1) An important ritual item symbolizing purity and spiritual commitment, offered to the deity during worship.[36] (2) A thread worn by Brahmana boys after taking the Brahminical vow, marking their initiation into religious studies.[37] (3) A ceremonial thread symbolizing purity and religious obligation, often used in rituals.[38] (4) A ceremonial thread made from specific materials like red silk or Kusha reeds, used in the Pavitrarohana rite and other rituals.[39] (5) A thread made of gold, silver, copper, or cotton used in the Pavitrarohana rite.[40]
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) An emblem of the sage's spiritual status and connection to divine knowledge.[41] (2) The threefold cord representing acts, sacrifices, and knowledge, highlighting spiritual practices.[42] (3) A ritual symbol indicating Vipaschit's purification and new beginning after his transformation.[43] (4) Symbolic representation of spiritual protection, often associated with rituals descending from sacred rivers.[44] (5) The divine connection represented by the moon-beams girding the world, signifying unity and purity.[45]
From: Markandeya Purana
(1) A symbolic thread that signifies the investiture and coming of age of a boy, marking his responsibilities in society.[46] (2) A significant initiation rite for dvijas, marking the beginning of higher educational responsibilities.[47] (3) An emblematic thread that signifies a young man's initiation into spiritual adulthood in Vedic culture.[48] (4) A ceremonial investiture rite performed as part of Ritavac's son's birth ceremony.[49]
From: Brahma Purana
(1) A symbol of initiation and spiritual commitment for Brahmins, marking their entry into the path of Vedic study.[50] (2) A ritualistic cord worn by Brahmins during the performance of sacred rites.[51] (3) An important symbol of spiritual initiation and identity among the Brahmins, representing a commitment to their duties.[52] (4) A ritual thread representing spiritual commitment and purity, dedicated to the divine.[53]
From: Brahmanda Purana
(1) An important symbol worn during the ritual practices, indicating spiritual purity as Pindas are offered.[54] (2) An emblem of spiritual initiation and purity, often worn by individuals for blessings and protection.[55] (3) A symbolic thread given during the Shraddha that confers the benefit of Brahmadana, sanctifying the Brahmanas.[56] (4) A serpent serving as a sacred ornament on Shiva, symbolizing spiritual authority.[57]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) Referring to the practice of wearing 108 Rudrakshams as a representation of the sacrificial thread in spiritual rituals.[58] (2) Refers to the holy thread that is associated with spiritual practices and the wearing of Rudraksha beads, symbolizing purity and divine connection.[59] (3) An important ritualistic thread representing spiritual initiation given during the Upanayana ceremonies.[60]
From: Vishnu Purana (Taylor)
(1) A symbol of initiation into Vedic study that marks the spiritual rebirth of members of the twice-born communities.[61] (2) A symbol of initiation and respect in a ritual context that Aurva performed for Sagara.[62] (3) A thread that signifies spiritual initiation, which a boy should receive before living as a celibate student in his guru's home.[63]
From: Anugita (English translation)
(1) A symbol of spiritual knowledge and social responsibility often worn by individuals to represent their commitments in life.[64] (2) A ceremonial thread worn by Brahmins, symbolizing their commitment to their spiritual duties.[65]
From: Markandeya Purana (Study)
(1) A sacred symbol worn during rituals that signifies a connection to religious duties and rituals for the pitris.[66] (2) A religious garment known as upavita, which is considered significant and is prohibited from being used if it has been worn by another person.[67]
From: Gautami Mahatmya
(1) An important rite (Upanayana) that the serpent requested to be performed as part of his upbringing.[68] (2) A significant ceremony and symbol of being initiated into the Hindu religion, observed by the brahmin Sanajjata under Galava's guidance.[69]
From: Harivamsha Purana
(1) A rope converted by the boys into a sacred thread, used during their playful activities.[70] (2) A religious thread worn by men to signify their adherence to spiritual and social duties; a mark of identity in Hindu culture.[71]
From: Brihaddharma Purana (abridged)
(1) A ceremonial thread worn by Brahmanas signifying their initiation and responsibilities.[72] (2) A holy string that signifies the initiation of a Brahmin into spiritual education, which was conferred on Vamana by Vrihaspati.[73]
From: Nilamata Purana
(1) A metaphorical expression referring to the means by which divine powers are connected or represented, here linked to a serpent worn by Mahesvara.[74]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki
(1) A symbolic term highlighting the line of duty and tradition followed by Angada during battle.[75]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) A ceremonial thread worn by certain Hindu males that symbolizes their status as Brahmins and their commitment to spiritual duties.[76] (2) A ceremonial thread worn over the shoulder, which should rest on the ear during the acts of urination and stooling.[77] (3) A thread worn by the twice-born, which is significant in various religious rites; its method of wearing indicates different religious functions.[78] (4) A thread worn by members of the twice-born classes signifying their higher status and religious duties.[79] (5) An element of a Brahmin's identity and spiritual discipline that signifies their commitment to their duties.[80]
From: Vasistha Dharmasutra
(1) A Brahmana who wears the sacred thread and is pure will not fail to gain the world of Brahman.[81] (2) A thread worn by a Brahmana, symbolizing spiritual purity and commitment to religious duties.[82]
From: Apastamba Dharma-sutra
(1) A symbol of religious or spiritual significance that affects the way a pupil should dress during rituals.[83]
From: Baudhayana Dharmasutra
(1) An item worn by a Brahmana that symbolizes religious initiation and a commitment to the study and observance of the Veda.[84]
From: Yajnavalkya-smriti (Vyavaharadhyaya)—Critical study
(1) A traditional mark signifying a higher caste, which a Shudra may be punished for falsely displaying.[85]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) One of the forms Nityananda takes while serving Krishna, indicating a spiritual or devotional function.[86] (2) The sacred thread form of Ananta Shesha, mentioned in the context of beautifying the body of the Lord.[87] (3) Refers to the brahmana thread as a symbol of spirituality, importance in rituals, and its significance in religious practices.[88] (4) A symbol of spiritual initiation and purity in Vedic tradition, absent in those deemed ignorant or sinful.[89] (5) Threads that are considered holy or significant in cultural or religious practices.[90]
From: Tiruvaymoli (Thiruvaimozhi): English translation
(1) A symbol associated with sacredness and divinity, highlighted in connection to the Lord's persona.[91] (2) Represents a significant spiritual symbol often worn in many cultures, associated with purity, commitment, and honor in traditions.[92] (3) An important ritual item that symbolizes purity and the sacred bond between the individual and the divine.[93] (4) A shining thread worn by the Lord, described as resembling lightning against a cloud in its brilliance.[94]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) a ritual thread given during diksha, marking a significant initiation into spiritual life.[95]
From: Srila Gurudeva (The Supreme Treasure)
(1) A symbol of spiritual initiation and purity worn by the saintly person.[96]
From: Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu
(1) A spiritual symbol, often associated with the rites of passage in certain traditions, representing purity and commitment to one's faith.[97]
From: Chaitanya Mangala
(1) A significant ritual that Jagannatha Mishra planned to perform for his son Vishvambhara at a sacred moment, marking a spiritual initiation.[98]
From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)
(1) A symbol of marriage and commitment, significant during the wedding ceremony of Naravahanadatta and Madanamancuka.[99] (2) Part of the ceremonial practices carried out by Brahmans, signifying spiritual initiation and connection to divine rites.[100] (3) The sacred thread is a cotton cord worn by the initiate which symbolizes his new status and spiritual commitment after the upanayana ceremony.[101] (4) A ceremonial thread signifying a young man's initiation into higher learning and societal responsibilities.[102] (5) A thread used in rituals for tying up plant tendrils, symbolizing sacred practices and the intersection of cultivation and spirituality.[103]
From: Dvisahasri of Tembesvami (Summary and Study)
(1) A ritual thread worn by Brahmins as a symbol of their spiritual initiation and responsibilities that Narahari leaves behind.[104] (2) A ceremonial cord worn by Brahmins that symbolizes their initiation into spiritual duties and responsibilities.[105] (3) A thread representing the spiritual and social status of a Brahmin, with specific rules for its handling provided in the text.[106] (4) A symbol of initiation in the Vedic tradition, indicating that the son is officially recognized as a Brahmin, yet he lacks the ability to chant the Gayatri mantra.[107] (5) A ritualistic thread worn by devotees symbolizing spiritual authority and commitment to religious practices.[108]
From: Naishadha-charita of Shriharsha
(1) A symbol of identity and duty, referred to in connection with Vasuki’s role, representing purity and allegiance.[109]
From: Harsha-charita
(1) A ceremonial thread worn by Brahmins symbolizing their spiritual commitment.[110]
From: Harshacharita (socio-cultural Study)
(1) A symbolic thread presented to the child during the upanayana samskara, signifying their status and responsibilities in the context of learning.[111]
From: Manasara (English translation)
(1) A spiritual thread made of gold, signifying religious significance within the context of temple foundations.[112] (2) An item signifying purity and sacredness, used in the dress of the master builder.[113] (3) A ceremonial thread made of gold and white flower that signifies purity and holiness, typically worn by the chief architect during rituals.[114] (4) A traditional ornament that signifies purity and spiritual status, which is included in the adornments of the images.[115] (5) A thread that holds significance in various rituals, mentioned in relation to the placement of chains and ornaments.[116]
From: Chandogya Upanishad (english Translation)
(1) A thread that is ceremonially given to a brahmin during initiation, symbolizing their commitment to spiritual and scholarly pursuits.[117] (2) The sacred thread symbolizes the initiation into the life of a brahmacarin, a rite of passage that signifies one's commitment to spiritual education and discipline.[118] (3) A rite of passage indicating the commencement of spiritual education and responsibilities.[119]
From: Bhagavatpadabhyudaya by Lakshmana Suri (study)
(1) A thread worn by certain practitioners, indicating a commitment to spiritual or religious duties.[120] (2) An indication of Brahminical status worn by Shankara, symbolizing his spiritual and ritual authority.[121]
From: Thirty minor Upanishads
(1) An important symbol and ritual item worn by Bahudaka bhikshus as part of their religious observance.[122]
From: Shiva Gita (study and summary)
(1) A ritualistic thread worn by devotees signifying their spiritual identity and commitments.[123]
From: Lakulisha-Pashupata (Philosophy and Practice)
(1) The sacred thread is a symbol of initiation and spirituality, associated with various castes and stages of life in Hindu tradition.[124] (2) A symbol of initiation and membership within certain spiritual orders, often denoting a new spiritual identity.[125] (3) An important symbol in Hinduism that signifies initiation and the spiritual responsibilities of a disciple, noted to have been present on the images of Lakulisa.[126]
From: Shaiva Upanishads (A Critical Study)
(1) A symbol of spiritual initiation and status, worn during rituals.[127] (2) A symbolic garland of beads, typically consisting of one hundred and eight beads, intended to be worn as a mark of spirituality.[128]
From: Parama Samhita (English translation)
(1) A thread given to initiate a person into a specific community, significant in certain religious ceremonies.[129] (2) Holy thread symbolizing initiation and spiritual authority, presented during rituals.[130] (3) A ritualistic item presented during worship, symbolizing spiritual authority and connection to the divine.[131]
From: Abhinaya-darpana (English)
(1) A symbolic representation often held by Brihaspati, representing purity, tradition, and the connection to spirituality.[132] (2) A symbol of initiation in the Brahmana caste, represented by a specific hand gesture.[133]
From: Kautilya Arthashastra
(1) A ritual that marks the transition to study the triple Vedas and various sciences.[134]
From: Rasa Jala Nidhi, vol 3: Metals, Gems and other substances
(1) A specific feature of the brahma-maya variety of sphatika, marked with lines resembling a sacred thread.[135]
Jain concept of 'Sacred thread'
The Sacred thread in Jainism symbolizes spiritual progression and purity, representing a ritualistic line on the body for transformation, as well as worn by monks and laymen to signify their devotion and ascetic practices.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) Refers to a ritualistic line on the body along which significant actions or transformations occur, deeply rooted in cultural practices.[136] (2) An item carried by sage Narada, symbolizing his devotion and ascetic lifestyle.[137] (3) A symbol of spiritual progression and purity that laymen adorned after receiving the cowrie-jewel mark.[138]
From: Bhagavati-sutra (Viyaha-pannatti)
(1) A symbolic thread worn by a person, used here to discuss the monk's transformation capability.[139]
The concept of Sacred thread in local and regional sources
The "Sacred thread" symbolizes spiritual purity, identity, and commitment in Hindu culture, particularly for Brahmans. It signifies rites of passage, initiation into religious duties, and cultural significance, marking a person's readiness for spiritual life and education.
From: Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints
(1) A holy thread that is tied around the torso as a mark of spiritual identity in Hindu tradition.[140] (2) A traditional symbol of spiritual initiation and purity commonly worn by Brahmans.[141] (3) A symbolic thread that represents spiritual purity and commitment to God, often critiqued in the context of social restrictions.[142] (4) Symbolizes a rite of passage, referring to the cultural and spiritual significance of Eknath's investiture.[143] (5) A thread worn by males in Hindu culture, symbolizing a vow of commitment to their faith.[144]
From: Triveni Journal
(1) A traditional object representing spiritual initiation, symbolizing the values of commitment and duty in the context of education.[145] (2) A traditional symbol representing the sanctity of marriage, adding gravity to the decision-making process and its implications.[146] (3) A thread worn by certain castes that signifies a person's initiation into religious responsibilities.[147] (4) A symbol of Brahminical status that Gokhale renounced, representing a conflict between belief and practice.[148] (5) Cultural identifier of Brahmins; Gokhale's relationship with it signifies a deeper contemplation of beliefs.[149]
From: Folk Tales of Gujarat (and Jhaverchand Meghani)
(1) A thread associated with a religious vow that Parvatiji had to give away to others to rid herself of a curse.[150]
From: Buddhist Ceremonies and Rituals of Sri Lanka
(1) The thread used in pirit rituals, sanctified during the ceremony and tied around the wrist for protection.[151]