Significance of Vrata
In Vaishnavism, Vrata signifies religious vows or commitments undertaken for self-purification and spiritual gain, often involving fasting and specific rituals. The Purana emphasizes the importance of Vrata as sacred observances, including lifelong vows and practices aimed at restoring spiritual purity and devotion to deities. Additionally, Dharmashastra presents Vrata as religious observances with distinct practices and durations, highlighting its role in spiritual discipline within Hindu tradition. Thus, Vrata embodies a significant element of spiritual practice and commitment in Hinduism.
Synonyms: Door, Gateway, Entrance
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Vrata'
Vrata in Hinduism signifies a vow or observance dedicated to spiritual growth, often including fasting and rituals. It is viewed as a means of seeking divine blessings and purification, integral to the devotional practices of devotees.
From: Skanda Purana
(1) Religious vows taken by Ahalya during her journey to regain her former state and spiritual purity.[1] (2) A vow or religious observance in Hinduism, often involving fasting and specific rituals dedicated to a deity.[2] (3) Vows or religious observances undertaken with strict adherence to specific rituals, aimed at spiritual elevation and discipline.[3] (4) A vow or promise taken to perform specific spiritual observances and duties, typically to achieve religious merit or spiritual goals.[4] (5) Religious vows or observances that individuals should follow for spiritual growth and purity.[5]
From: Shiva Purana
(1) Vows or religious observances performed with a sense of devotion and discipline.[6] (2) A vow or sacred observance dedicated to Shiva, often involving specific rituals and personal sacrifices aimed at spiritual growth.[7] (3) A vow or religious observance performed by the devotee for spiritual attainment.[8] (4) A vow or spiritual discipline involving fasting or specific religious observances aimed at seeking Lord Shiva's blessings.[9]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) A vow or observance meant for spiritual merit and progress, which involves specific rituals and offerings to deities.[10] (2) Vows or observances undertaken in worship to gain blessings from the Devis, particularly in relation to childbirth.[11] (3) Vows or religious observances undertaken for spiritual merit or purification.[12]
From: Garuda Purana
(1) A series of religious observances and rituals that involve fasting and worship, leading to spiritual rewards and the fulfillment of desires.[13] (2) A vow or practice observed for a year leading up to significant worship of Vishnu.[14] (3) Religious vows or practices prescribed for devotees, particularly in the context of worshiping Vishnu during the month of Kartika.[15]
From: Padma Purana
(1) Refers to religious observances or vows, indicating a focus on spiritual practices found in the Puranas.[16] (2) Vows or religious observances that are emphasized in the Purana, seen as a path to spiritual merit and liberation.[17]
From: Harivamsha Purana
(1) A vow or undertaking to observe certain rites and rituals in pursuit of spiritual or worldly benefits.[18] (2) A vow or religious observance performed for spiritual merit in Hindu tradition.[19]
From: Vishnu Purana
(1) Observances of fasting and other practices that are enjoined in the Bhavishya Purana suitable for different lunar days.[20] (2) Occasional acts of piety described in detail in the Matsya Purana, often attributed to the householder duties.[21]
From: Matsya Purana (critical study)
(1) Religious rites or vows discussed in the Matsyapurana, which are accessible to all classes of society including women and shudras.[22] (2) A term meaning will, obedience, conduct, or custom; denotes a religious vow, practice, or austerity with specific observances relating to food and behavior.[23]
From: Lalitopakhyana (Lalita Mahatmya)
(1) Vows or observances undertaken for spiritual purposes, often involving specific rituals or restrictions.[24]
From: Brahmanda Purana
(1) A holy vow that the sage Apava undertook, which involved staying under water for ten thousand years.[25]
From: Linga Purana
(1) A religious vow or observance undertaken by devotees, often associated with fasting or specific rituals.[26]
From: Agni Purana
(1) A vow or restraint prescribed in scriptures that functions as a form of penance and self-control.[27]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) A term denoting habit or a fixed characteristic, influencing a person's behaviour.[28] (2) A term indicating the observances and restrictions based on scriptures, encompassing fasting and similar practices.[29]
From: Gobhila-grihya-sutra
(1) Vratas are religious vows or observances mentioned in the text, each with specific practices and durations, such as the Godana-vrata and the Aditya-vrata.[30]
From: Bhajana-Rahasya
(1) Vows or commitments made for spiritual purposes, often involving fasting or specific rituals.[31] (2) a vow undertaken for self-purification.[32]
From: Srila Gurudeva (The Supreme Treasure)
(1) Religious observances or vows that can aid spiritual practice.[33]
The concept of Vrata in local and regional sources
Vrata signifies austerity or vows, exemplified by Dilipa's commitment to sacrifice for the purpose of attaining progeny. This reflects the broader theme of dedication and sacrifice in the pursuit of Dharma within regional teachings.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) Austerity or vow taken by Dilipa in pursuit of progeny, illustrating the theme of sacrifice in the pursuit of Dharma.[34]