Significance of Ancient text
Ancient text refers to a variety of historical writings that hold significant cultural, spiritual, and philosophical relevance across different traditions. In Jainism, it encompasses teachings and interpretations relevant to spiritual practices, while in Vaishnavism, it forms the foundation of spiritual philosophy. The category also includes historical writings in Ayurvedic literature, detailing medicinal practices, plant uses, and health treatments. Overall, ancient texts serve as crucial resources for understanding the beliefs, practices, and knowledge of past civilizations, particularly in the fields of religion, medicine, and architecture.
Synonyms: Old scripture, Manuscript, Codex, Parchment, Relic, Scripture, Historical document, Ancient manuscript, Inscription, Tablet, Chronicle, Record
In Dutch: Oude tekst; In Finnish: Vanha teksti; In Spanish: Texto antiguo; In German: Alter Text; In Swedish: Gammal text; In Malay: Teks kuno; In French: Texte ancien
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Ancient text'
Ancient texts in Buddhism encompass old scriptures detailing bhikshu assemblies and historical documents of the Buddha's teachings, composed in Standard Sanskrit, Pali, Prakrit, and BHS, highlighting their historical and doctrinal significance.
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) Old scriptures from which references regarding the assemblies of bhikshus are derived, indicating their historical importance.[1]
Hindu concept of 'Ancient text'
The term "Ancient text" in Hinduism encompasses sacred scriptures, historical writings, and foundational works that shape philosophy, rituals, and cultural practices, including Vedas and Puranas, preserving important religious, medicinal, and philosophical insights.
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) Written sources from which purification practices and methods are derived and recorded.[2] (2) Refers to the Veda, indicating its eternal and foundational nature in the context of the rituals and beliefs regarding ancestors.[3]
From: Baudhayana Dharmasutra
(1) The revealed writings from which teachings about studentship and initiation practices are derived.[4]
From: Khadira-grihya-sutra
(1) The foundational religious writings which prescribe the rituals and practices of sacrifice.[5]
From: Vishnu Purana
(1) The category of literature that includes the Puranas, which are regarded as some of the oldest works describing Hindu beliefs and traditions.[6]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Griffith)
(1) Ancient text was heard by Kausalya, and she believed that this day is true in every word, demonstrating her conviction.[7]
From: Brahma Sutras (Ramanuja)
(1) Refers to historical religious or philosophical writings that provide insight into the beliefs regarding the relationship between fire and water.[8]
From: Brahma Sutras (Shankaracharya)
(1) Again in each of those sections there existed more ancient texts which it was impossible to discard when deeper and more advanced speculations began in their turn to be embodied in literary compositions.[9]
From: Manasara (English translation)
(1) A historical document that contains knowledge and references significant to its subject matter.[10]
From: Shat-cakra-nirupana (the six bodily centres)
(1) Scriptures that provide guidelines and detailed instructions regarding spiritual practices and the awakening of energies.[11]
From: Kamashastra Discourse (Life in Ancient India)
(1) The foundational works that inform the philosophy and practices discussed in the Kamasutra.[12]
From: Bhesajjakkhandhaka (Chapter on Medicine)
(1) The writings, including the Vedas, that provide early evidence and insight into Indian medicine and Aryan culture.[13]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) Refers to the historical writings that form the basis of spiritual and philosophical teachings.[14]
From: Vastu-shastra (Introduction to Indian architecture)
(1) Historical writings that provide insights into the beliefs, practices, and architectural styles within Hinduism.[15]
Jain concept of 'Ancient text'
The term "Ancient text" in Jainism encompasses written works that articulate teachings and interpretations essential for understanding spiritual practices and philosophical concepts within the religion. These texts are vital for Jain practitioners.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) Written works that contain teachings and interpretations relevant to spiritual practice and philosophy.[16]
The concept of Ancient text in local and regional sources
Ancient text encompasses traditional and historical writings that illuminate Tibetan mythology, culture, and language, including Bon cosmology, land issues, royal accounts, and Hindu scriptures, each contributing to a rich historical narrative and cultural identity.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) The sacred scriptures which were believed to hold the final authority in Hindu law, but were recognized as inadequate in modern practice.[17] (2) Historical scriptures that hold significant knowledge for Hindus, yet are also a source of superstition for some.[18]
From: Village Folk-tales of Ceylon (Sri Lanka), vol. 1-3
(1) References to previous writings that discuss the birthing of bear cubs in a manner similar to the themes explored in this story.[19]