Significance of Saffron robe
The saffron robe is a significant garment in various spiritual traditions, symbolizing renunciation and commitment to a higher ideal. In Vaishnavism, it indicates the spiritual status of saints and ascetics. Purana and Mahayana describe it as traditional attire of holy men and Buddhist monks, respectively, reflecting their dedication to monastic life. Theravada views it as ceremonial attire for monks and nuns, symbolizing their spiritual commitment. Throughout history, the saffron robe has represented asceticism and the pursuit of enlightenment.
Synonyms: Saffron dress
In Dutch: Saffraan gewaad; In Finnish: Sahrami viitta; In Spanish: Túnica de color azafrán; In German: Safranfarbener Bademantel; In Spanish: Túnica de azafrán; In German: Safranrobe; In Malay: Jubah kunyit; In Swedish: Saffransrock; In French: Robe safran
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Saffron robe'
The saffron robe in Buddhism symbolizes the commitment of monks and nuns to monastic life, representing their renunciation, spiritual pursuit, and acceptance into the Buddhist community, marked by their dedication and ceremonial ordination.
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) Traditional attire worn by bhikshus symbolizing their dedication to monastic life and spiritual pursuit.[1] (2) The robes worn by the Blessed One, mentioned as cold in the context of the cold surroundings.[2] (3) Symbolizes the attire of Buddhist monks, representing renunciation and acceptance into the Buddhist monastic community.[3]
From: Bodhisattvacharyavatara
(1) The traditional attire of monks, which Prabhasa donned after becoming a monk at the request of the Buddha.[4]
From: Vinaya Pitaka (3): Khandhaka
(1) The traditional attire worn by monks and nuns as a symbol of their commitment to the spiritual path.[5] (2) The ceremonial attire worn by monks and nuns, signifying their ordination and commitment to religious life.[6]
Hindu concept of 'Saffron robe'
In Hinduism, the saffron robe symbolizes spirituality and asceticism, worn by holy men to reflect their commitment to higher ideals and renunciation, representing their spiritual status and devotion to a life of austerity.
From: Srila Gurudeva (The Supreme Treasure)
(1) Traditional attire of a saint or ascetic, indicating the saintly person's spiritual status and commitment to a higher ideal.[7]
From: Chaitanya Mangala
(1) Garments traditionally worn by ascetics and spiritual practitioners, signifying renunciation and devotion.[8]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Shastri)
(1) A garment traditionally worn by holy men, representing spirituality and ascetic life.[9]
The concept of Saffron robe in local and regional sources
The Saffron robe symbolizes renunciation and spirituality, associated with ascetics and spiritual leaders. It reflects a life dedicated to aesthetic beauty, purity, and enlightenment, embodying the transformative journey of figures like Siddhartha and Vivekananda.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) The ceremonial attire worn by the disciple, indicating his role in the spiritual setting alongside the holy man.[10] (2) Garments typically worn by ascetics, signifying Siddhartha's transformation and his pursuit of a life of renunciation.[11] (3) Traditional attire worn by the Paramacharya, symbolizing renunciation and spirituality.[12] (4) A garment typically worn by ascetics, symbolizing renunciation and spirituality.[13] (5) A traditional garment worn by ascetics, symbolizing a life dedicated to spirituality and renunciation.[14]