Significance of Begging
Synonyms: Supplicating
In Dutch: Bedelen; In Finnish: ääԱ; In Spanish: Mendicidad; In German: Betteln; In Malay: Mengemis; In Swedish: Tiggeri; In French: ѱԻ徱é
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Begging'
In Buddhism, Begging symbolizes the tragic fate of the old brahmin, highlighting themes of abandonment and neglect faced by the elderly, reflecting deeper societal issues around compassion and care for the vulnerable.
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) The ultimate fate of the old brahmin after being cast out, illustrating the abandonment and neglect of the elderly.[1]
Hindu concept of 'Begging'
In Hinduism, begging embodies a complex dynamic that signifies spiritual discipline for sannyasis, dependency, caution against materialism, and societal views on purity and moral standing, illustrating a profound relationship between physical needs and spiritual pursuits.
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) Defined as pain in this discourse, illustrating dependency on others.[2] (2) Requesting help or food from others, an action that should not be taken lightly by the Accomplished Brahmana.[3]
From: Paraskara-grihya-sutra
(1) The act of seeking food or provisions, which is discouraged especially after bathing.[4]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) The act of asking for food or money, which the materialists accuse those inside the house of doing to fill their bellies.[5] (2) The act of requesting food, money, or other forms of assistance from others, often seen in the context of a sannyasi who adopts this practice as a form of spiritual discipline.[6]
From: Tiruvaymoli (Thiruvaimozhi): English translation
(1) The act of seeking alms or support, representing the downfall of those who forsake spiritual pursuits.[7]
From: Hayanaratna: The Jewel of Annual Astrology
(1) This adverse condition is associated with the moon's burnt-away strength, indicating a state of reliance on others for sustenance, as stated in the text.[8] (2) Begging refers to seeking assistance or support, and the inclination towards this can be linked to the great strength of Saturn in the context of astrological analysis.[9]
From: Garuda Purana
(1) The act of obtaining articles, which can attain purity by being looked at by a woman.[10]
Jain concept of 'Begging'
In Jainism, Begging symbolizes a monk's devotion and dependency on the Master through Goshala's choice of livelihood, as well as the essential practice of seeking alms for survival in an ascetic lifestyle.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) The livelihood choice of Goshala that kept him in close proximity to the Master, indicating dependency and devotion.[11]
From: Uttaradhyayana Sutra
(1) The practice of seeking alms from householders, which is essential for a monk's survival in his ascetic lifestyle.[12]
The concept of Begging in local and regional sources
Begging is a vital survival strategy depicted in the text, showcasing different characters' struggles and reliance on alms for sustenance in desperate circumstances after being expelled, orphaned, or facing hardships.
From: Folklore of the Santal Parganas
(1) The desperate action Somai was left to take when he could no longer sustain himself through fishing.[13] (2) The means by which the elder Rani and her maidservant supported themselves after being expelled.[14] (3) The act of soliciting alms or money from others, a central theme in the Brahman's lifestyle.[15] (4) The action that the twins took to survive after being raised by the vultures.[16]
From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda
(1) The author expresses a desire to return to a former activity, suggesting a potential change in their means of support.[17]
From: Village Folk-tales of Ceylon (Sri Lanka), vol. 1-3
(1) The state of the Carpenter’s son after being separated from his family, leading him to rely on alms.[18]