Significance of Thirst
Thirst is a multifaceted concept across various philosophical and religious traditions. In Jainism, it reflects both physical needs and a monk's struggle with longing. Vaishnavism views thirst as both a physical craving and a metaphor for spiritual connection. Ayurveda categorizes it into five types linked to bodily humors. Mahayana Buddhism sees thirst as a metaphor for desire that results in suffering, while Theravada relates it to cravings for spiritual nourishment. Overall, thirst symbolizes significant cravings and attachments influencing human experience.
Synonyms: Hunger, Craving, Desire, Yearning, Longing, Appetite, Dryness
In Dutch: Dorst; In German: Durst; In Finnish: Jano; In Spanish: Sed
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Thirst'
In Buddhism, "Thirst" symbolizes desire and craving, which cause suffering and disrupt mental and physical harmony. Overcoming this thirst leads to Nibbana, representing spiritual fulfillment akin to quenching one's thirst for water.
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) The uncomfortable sensation or feeling due to the need for water or fluids.[1] (2) Describes the overwhelming desire and craving that leads to suffering and the cycle of rebirth.[2] (3) A deep craving or attachment, contributing to disturbances in the mind and body.[3] (4) In Buddhism, a metaphor for desire or craving that poisons one's understanding and leads to suffering.[4]
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) A term indicating craving or desire, which is seen as a fundamental source of suffering and attachment in life.[5] (2) A metaphor for craving or desire which, when extinguished, leads to the realization of Nibbana.[6]
From: Visuddhimagga (the pah of purification)
(1) Represents a craving for spiritual nourishment, comparable to a thirsty man's longing for a refreshing drink.[7]
Hindu concept of 'Thirst'
In Hinduism, Thirst represents both a physical craving (pipasa) and a metaphorical longing for divine connection. It symbolizes suffering from desires and is connected to bodily imbalances, affecting emotional and physical well-being.
From: Rasa Jala Nidhi, vol 4: Iatrochemistry
(1) A symptom that this medicine can alleviate.[8] (2) A symptom of an imbalance of doshas that the preparation aims to help alleviate.[9] (3) A condition experienced due to an excess of pitta, indicating the body's need for hydration.[10]
From: Rasa Jala Nidhi, vol 3: Metals, Gems and other substances
(1) Increased thirst is a result of consuming too much salt.[11]
From: Charaka Samhita (English translation)
(1) Five varieties of thirst distinguished by underlying causes related to different bodily humors.[12] (2) A symptom frequently observed in patients suffering from acute spreading affections, often indicating dehydration.[13]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) a metaphorical or literal sense of longing, indicating the gopis' desire and need for connection with divinity.[14]
From: Bhajana-Rahasya
(1) Referred to as pipasa, it relates to a physical craving for fluids, similarly affected by the emotional waves.[15]
From: Bhagavad-gita-rahasya (or Karma-yoga Shastra)
(1) An intense craving or desire that leads to suffering; in philosophical terms, it is linked to the ongoing struggle for happiness.[16]
Jain concept of 'Thirst'
In Jainism, Thirst symbolizes a physical discomfort that challenges saints and monks. It encompasses a deep longing for drink that must be endured without shame, reflecting a bodily sensation tied to ascetic discipline.
From: Tattvartha Sutra (with commentary)
(1) Another affliction among the fourteen, representing a physical discomfort that can affect saints.[17] (2) An affliction representing the bodily sensation of needing water.[18]
From: Uttaradhyayana Sutra
(1) Another trouble a monk faces, associated with a longing for drink, which he must bear without succumbing to shame or aversion.[19]
The concept of Thirst in scientific sources
Thirst, as described in the text, is a symptom linked to respiratory conditions, suggesting it may reflect a systemic response to illness, highlighting the body's physiological reactions in response to underlying health issues.
From: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
(1) A symptom that can be associated with various respiratory conditions, indicating a possible systemic response to illness.[20]