Erukku: 1 definition
Introduction
Introduction:
Erukku means something in Hinduism, Sanskrit. If you want to know the exact meaning, history, etymology or English translation of this term then check out the descriptions on this page. Add your comment or reference to a book if you want to contribute to this summary article.
In Hinduism
Jyotisha (astronomy and astrology)
Source: archive.org: South Indian Festivities (astronomy)The peculair custom of people placing a layer of the leaves of the plant Erukku (Calotropis gigantea), Sanskrit arka, on the head and with that bathe in rivers, deserves examination. It is believed that this plant is symbolical of decay. There is a saying current that the houses of a partial judge and a false witness are destined to be overgrown with this plant, and its flowers are said to be the favourite flowers of Shiva, the lord of destruction and of the burning-ghats. Why should people place some of the leaves of this plant of such evil repute on their heads and bathe on this occasion? The rationale is simple when properly understood. The nature of plants as well as animals is everundergoing changes with the change of influence of the planets over the objects on earth. A careful observer might notice this in men, animals and plants.
Jyotisha (ज्योतिष, jyotiṣa or jyotish) refers to ‘astronomy’ or “Vedic astrology” and represents the fifth of the six Vedangas (additional sciences to be studied along with the Vedas). Jyotisha concerns itself with the study and prediction of the movements of celestial bodies, in order to calculate the auspicious time for rituals and ceremonies.
See also (Relevant definitions)
Relevant text
Search found 2 books and stories containing Erukku; (plurals include: Erukkus). You can also click to the full overview containing English textual excerpts. Below are direct links for the most relevant articles:
The Religion and Philosophy of Tevaram (Thevaram) (by M. A. Dorai Rangaswamy)
Chapter 85 - Thiruparankundram or Tirupparankunram (Hymn 2) < [Volume 3.7 - Unto the last]
Chapter 22 - Thiruchotruthurai or Tiru-Corrutturai (Hymn 94) < [Volume 3.2 - Pilgrim’s progress: to Chola]
Chapter 4.3 - (b) The seven Tandava Dances of Shiva < [Volume 2 - Nampi Arurar and Mythology]
Parama Samhita (English translation) (by Krishnaswami Aiyangar)