Significance of Wooden sword
The Wooden sword, as described in Dharmashastra, serves multiple ritualistic purposes, emphasizing its importance in ceremonial practices. It is utilized by the Adhvaryu to perform tasks such as tracing and marking altars, digging, and cleansing, while also representing authority and boundaries against evil spirits. Notably, it is involved in the intricate processes of the sacrificial rituals, highlighting its significance within Vedic traditions. In contrast, Mahayana interprets the Wooden sword as a symbol of peace and non-violence carried by Shantideva during his protective duties.
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Wooden sword'
The "Wooden sword" in Buddhism symbolizes peace and non-violence, represented by Shantideva's choice of this item during his royal service, highlighting the commitment to protecting without causing harm.
From: Bodhisattvacharyavatara
(1) A symbolic item carried by Shantideva while in royal service, signifying peace and non-violence despite his protection duties.[1]
Hindu concept of 'Wooden sword'
In Hinduism, the wooden sword symbolizes authority and significance in sacrificial rituals, used by the Adhvaryu for various ceremonial tasks, including altar construction, tracing boundaries, and invoking protection, emphasizing its ritualistic importance.
From: Bharadvaja-srauta-sutra
(1) A ceremonial object likely used to support the goblet of water during the ritual, marking a connection to the sacredness of the offerings.[2] (2) An implement used in the rites, likely for ceremonial purposes.[3] (3) An object that the Agnidhra should touch, symbolizing authority in the ceremony.[4] (4) A tool used by the Adhvaryu to trace the altar and perform various ritual actions including pouring the prokshani-water.[5] (5) An item taken up by the Agnidhra, used during the officiating of rituals.[6]
From: Satapatha-brahmana
(1) An implement used in the sacrificial ritual, thrown thrice by the Agnidhra as instructed.[7] (2) Symbolically acts as a protective element during the sacrificial ritual, akin to a thunderbolt.[8] (3) Represents a ritual tool described as a thunderbolt, used to encompass the foot-print to prevent trespassing.[9] (4) Represents one of the three pieces that are used in sacrificial rituals and symbolizes the weapon chosen for fighting evil.[10]