Significance of Time of distress
The concept of Time of distress is explored in various texts, each highlighting different dimensions. According to Arthashastra, it signifies a period when guilds recover their deposits due to need. In Vaishnavism, it reflects emotional turmoil over rejected marriage proposals and continuous dedication among vraja-vasis. The Purana describes it as times prompting reflection on loyalty and friendship amidst hardship. Dharmashastra links it to basic necessity shortages and adaptations to normal rules, while Indian history portrays it as emotional crises leading to responsibility abandonment.
Synonyms: Hardship, Trouble, Adversity, Turmoil, Anguish, Suffering, Misfortune, Emergency, Difficulty, Catastrophe
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Time of distress'
Time of distress in Hinduism signifies a challenging period prompting divine reliance, revealing genuine friendships, compelling commitment to Krishna, invoking reevaluation of actions, necessitating resource management, and adapting roles in response to hardships or emotional turmoil.
From: The Shiva Purana
(1) A critical period that reveals true friendship and the capability of friends to act.[1]
From: The Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) The critical moments when intelligent beings, despite serving their enemies, reconsider killing them once they gain strength.[2]
From: The Vishnu Purana
(1) Periods during which individuals may need to adapt their roles or perform duties differently due to challenging circumstances.[3]
From: The Garuda Purana
(1) A situation that requires saving money for emergencies or crises.[4]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) A period characterized by turmoil or difficulty, prompting beings to seek divine help or wisdom.[5]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) The critical moment during which Padmavati chose to jest, which was deemed as inappropriate given the context.[6] (2) Circumstances faced by the vraja-vasis that compel them to continue following Shri Krishna's orders, showcasing their unwavering commitment.[7]
From: Chaitanya Mangala
(1) The emotional state experienced by Sanatana Pandita due to the perceived rejection of his daughter's marriage proposal to Lord Vishvambhara.[8]
From: Apastamba Dharma-sutra
(1) Situations where the normal rules may be relaxed, allowing the teacher to use the pupil for personal needs.[9]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) Periods marked by hardship, particularly characterized by lack of basic necessities such as food and clothing.[10]
From: Kautilya Arthashastra
(1) A period in which guilds are allowed to retrieve their deposits back, reflecting a state of need.[11]
The concept of 'Time of distress' in local and regional sources
Time of distress describes a phase of emotional crisis, exemplified by Raka's turmoil over the kittens, and signifies a tendency for individuals to neglect responsibilities due to self-preservation concerns amidst personal turmoil.
From: Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints
(1) A situation where individuals abandon their responsibilities and duties due to personal concern for their own safety.[12] (2) A period of emotional turmoil and crisis, particularly experienced by Raka due to the situation with the kittens.[13]