Significance of Shaven head
The concept of shaven head holds various meanings in different spiritual contexts. In Vaishnavism, it signifies renunciation and commitment to a spiritual life among sannyasis and also implies characteristics related to asceticism and social status. In Theravada Buddhism, a shaven head denotes a monk’s commitment to a monastic lifestyle but does not inherently signify spiritual merit if associated with deceit. Overall, shaven head symbolizes asceticism, dedication, and sometimes social implications across these traditions.
Synonyms: Bald head
In Dutch: Geschoren hoofd; In Finnish: Ajeltu pää
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Shaven head'
In Buddhism, a shaven head symbolizes a monk's commitment to monastic life, though it is not a definitive marker of spirituality; deceitful actions negate any merit associated with this physical change.
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) A physical characteristic that does not qualify an individual as a monk; it denotes the act of tonsuring but signifies no spiritual merit if coupled with deceit and greed.[1] (2) A reference to the appearance of monks, including the young monk, which signifies their commitment to a monastic lifestyle.[2]
From: The Fo-Sho-Hing-Tsan-King (A Life of Buddha)
(1) A symbol of renunciation often associated with ascetics and hermits who have left worldly life.[3]
Hindu concept of 'Shaven head'
In Hinduism, a shaven head symbolizes asceticism, renunciation, and commitment to spiritual life, while also representing low-caste status and inauspiciousness in certain contexts, as seen in Vrinda's dream and the king's transformation.
From: Shiva Purana
(1) A characteristic of the Purusha created by Vishnu, indicating asceticism.[4]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki
(1) A characteristic of the king’s new appearance after the curse, symbolizing a typical sign of low-caste status.[5]
From: Skanda Purana
(1) Describes a characteristic of the figure in Vrinda's dream, possibly representing asceticism or a departure from normalcy.[6]
From: Agni Purana
(1) Refers to a person with a shaved head, associated with inauspiciousness in this context.[7]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) A practice among sannyasis indicating renunciation and commitment to spiritual life.[8]
From: Shishupala-vadha (Study)
(1) Refers to ascetics or monks, often used by spies to disguise themselves.[9]