Significance of Tear
According to various philosophical and cultural perspectives, "Tear" signifies a multifaceted emotional response linked to profound feelings such as sorrow, joy, and grief. In Vaishnavism, tears serve as manifestations of devotion and deep emotional connections, illustrated by figures like Arjuna and Lord Nityananda. They can result from varied emotions including anguish, jubilation, and love. Across traditions such as Purana and Mahayana, tears symbolize grief and loss, with a biological basis established in science as fluids produced by the lacrimal glands.
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Tear'
In Buddhism, "Tear" can be interpreted as both a physical fluid produced by the lacrimal glands and a representation of emotional expression, symbolizing the interplay between bodily experiences and deeper emotional states.
From: Visuddhimagga (the pah of purification)
(1) The fluid produced by the lacrimal glands, which can flow from the eyes.[1]
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) The saline fluids secreted by the lacrimal glands of the eyes comprising part of the bodily substances.[2]
Hindu concept of 'Tear'
In Hinduism, tears symbolize profound emotional responses, representing grief, anguish, and deep feelings of love or sorrow. They serve as physical manifestations of intense emotions, reflecting characters' hardships and spiritual devotion, often linked to transformative experiences.
From: Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu
(1) Represents the emotional depth and sorrow that accompany the sentiments Arjuna expresses to Krishna.[3] (2) A physical expression of sadness or intense emotion, considered part of the emotional responses elicited in the context.[4] (3) Physical manifestation of sorrow often associated with feelings of self-disgust and emotional distress.[5] (4) The release of fluid from the eyes, usually a response to deep emotions such as sorrow, joy, or relief.[6] (5) Fluid that is secreted as a response to emotional experiences, such as those triggered by fire-related avega.[7]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) A sign of deep emotional response, often associated with sorrow or joy, highlighted in the context of the text.[8] (2) A common physical manifestation of emotional response, often related to feelings of love.[9] (3) One of the physical manifestations of ecstatic transformations that symbolize deep emotion.[10] (4) A manifestation of strong emotion, symbolizing compassion and connection from Lord Nityananda towards others.[11]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) Drops of clear liquid that flow from the eyes, representing emotional distress or deep feelings.[12] (2) Representing grief and anguish in the context of Devaki’s emotional state.[13]
From: Srila Gurudeva (The Supreme Treasure)
(1) Expressions of profound emotion displayed by Shrila Gurudeva when reading poignant sections of the Ramayana, illustrating his devotion.[14]
From: Bhajana-Rahasya
(1) Referred to as ashru, tears can manifest from emotions like jubilation, anger, or despair, and vary in temperature based on the emotion experienced.[15]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) Physical manifestation of the speaker's sorrow, indicating deep emotional distress during their lament.[16]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) A symbol of grief and loss, frequently mentioned as characters express their sorrow throughout the narrative.[17] (2) An expression of grief shared by the citizens in response to Dhritarashtra's emotional address.[18]
From: Padma Purana
(1) A symbol of grief as Prabhavati mourns the loss of her husband, indicating emotional suffering.[19]
From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)
(1) A symbol of grief and emotional response shown by characters during their hardships.[20]
From: Sahitya-kaumudi by Baladeva Vidyabhushana
(1) Ashru, referring to the shedding of tears as a common emotional response, indicating sadness or overwhelming feelings.[21]
From: Amarakoshodghatana of Kshirasvamin (study)
(1) The liquid produced by the eyes, referred to as ashru.[22]
The concept of Tear in local and regional sources
Tear signifies Velan's emotional response to witnessing the destruction of the margosa tree, reflecting his deep connection and love for Nature, thereby highlighting the theme of emotional expression in the context of environmental loss.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) Emotional expression shown by Velan when witnessing the destruction of the margosa tree, symbolizing his love for Nature.[23]
The concept of Tear in scientific sources
Tear refers to the essential fluid produced by the lacrimal glands, crucial for maintaining the health and stability of the ocular surface, composed of water, electrolytes, proteins, and lipids.
From: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
(1) A fluid produced by the lacrimal glands that maintains ocular surface health and stability, consisting of water, electrolytes, proteins, and lipids.[24]