Significance of White flower
White flower holds varied meanings across different contexts. In Purana, it symbolizes purity and devotion, often used in worship and as cosmetic enhancements. Kavya presents it as a modest ornament for women, while Ayurveda defines it as a type of Kurchi. In Rasashastra, it refers to a specific karavira type, and in Theravada, it represents adornments for bulls during ceremonies. Scientifically, it denotes a rare Solanum trilobatum variant, recognized for its potential therapeutic benefits.
Synonyms: Jasmine
In Spanish: Flor blanca; In Dutch: Witte bloem; In Finnish: Valkoinen kukka
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'White flower'
In Buddhism, the "White flower" symbolizes purity and is associated with the adornments on bulls during the ploughing ceremony, representing a connection to agricultural rituals and the sanctity of nature in Buddhist practices.
From: Maha Buddhavamsa—The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) The adornments placed on the bulls during the ploughing ceremony.[1]
Hindu concept of 'White flower'
In Hinduism, white flowers symbolize purity and devotion, used in worship, garlands, and modest adornment, while also serving as cosmetics and indicating positive omens. They play a crucial role in religious and cultural practices.
From: Agni Purana
(1) Considered excellent augury, indicating positive signs.[2] (2) Placed in the hole filled with water from the water-jar.[3]
From: Padma Purana
(1) A category of flowers used in worship that signifies purity and devotion.[4] (2) Flowers that contribute to the beauty of the garland adorning the man.[5]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) Garlands made of these flowers are used for decoration in the lying-in room, symbolizing purity and celebration.[6]
From: Markandeya Purana (Study)
(1) Flowers that are specially used as cosmetics for enhancing beauty and attractiveness.[7]
From: Lalitopakhyana (Lalita Mahatmya)
(1) Flowers that symbolize purity and are used in worship of divine entities, especially Shiva.[8]
From: Skanda Purana
(1) A form of floral offering used in the worship of Shukreshvara, symbolizing purity and devotion.[9]
From: Vishnu Purana (Taylor)
(1) Garlands of flowers that symbolize purity and are used for adornment.[10]
From: Rasa Jala Nidhi, vol 3: Metals, Gems and other substances
(1) One of the five kinds of karavira characterized by its white flower.[11]
From: Harshacharita (socio-cultural Study)
(1) A modest ornamentation choice for women, symbolizing simplicity and grace.[12]
From: Charaka Samhita (English translation)
(1) A distinguishing feature of the male variety of Kurchi, which has white-colored flowers.[13]
The concept of White flower in scientific sources
The keyphrase "White flower" pertains to a rare variant of Solanum trilobatum, distinguished by its white blossoms and reputedly enhanced therapeutic benefits, as noted by regional sources.
From: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
(1) The rare variant of Solanum trilobatum known for its white flowers and claimed to have superior therapeutic properties.[14]