Ghatikashabda, Ghaṭikāśabda, Ghatika-shabda: 1 definition

Introduction:

Ghatikashabda means something in Jainism, Prakrit. 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.

The Sanskrit term Ghaṭikāśabda can be transliterated into English as Ghatikasabda or Ghatikashabda, using the IAST transliteration scheme (?).

In Jainism

General definition (in Jainism)

[«previous next»] — Ghatikashabda in Jainism glossary
Source: The University of Sydney: A study of the Twelve Reflections

Ghaṭikāśabda (घटिकाशब्द) refers to “sound (coming) from a time-piece”, according to the 11th century Jñānārṇava, a treatise on Jain Yoga in roughly 2200 Sanskrit verses composed by Śubhacandra.—Accordingly, “Those who are wise speak about momentariness with the striking of the clock of kings [com.—ghaṭikāśabdaghaṭikāgataśabdenaghaṭikāgataśabdena—‘with the sound coming from a time-piece’] . The betterment of oneself must be accomplished. That [time] which is past will not return”.

Note: The Hindi explanation (JA[S] 3rd ed. p. 27-8) differs slightly from the commentary in its reading of this verse. It says that the sages have explained the transitoriness of animate and inanimate objects with the striking of the clock of kings. This means that just as a clock indicates minutes and hours by striking on time so it also indicates the destruction of things according to the passage of time. The reason Śubhacandra refers to the striking of the clock of kings is due to the fact that, as laid down in the Arthaśāstra (attributed to Kauṭilya), from ancient times in India it was one of the responsibilities of a king to keep the time (Pargiter 1915: 699).

General definition book cover
context information

Jainism is an Indian religion of Dharma whose doctrine revolves around harmlessness (ahimsa) towards every living being. The two major branches (Digambara and Svetambara) of Jainism stimulate self-control (or, shramana, ‘self-reliance’) and spiritual development through a path of peace for the soul to progess to the ultimate goal.

Discover the meaning of ghatikashabda or ghatikasabda in the context of General definition from relevant books on Exotic India

See also (Relevant definitions)

Relevant text

Like what you read? Consider supporting this website: