Significance of Bright fortnight
Bright fortnight, or shukla paksha, refers to the lunar phase during which the moon is waxing, symbolizing growth and positivity. This period is significant across various traditions, including Jainism, Vaishnavism, and Ayurveda, where it is seen as auspicious for conducting rituals and worship. Notably, it encompasses events such as the Ekadashi and specific Vedic rites in Hindu practices. Additionally, this phase is associated with the timing of various religious observances and ceremonies, marking it as a favorable time for spiritual activities.
Synonyms: Lunar fortnight, Bright half
In Dutch: Heldere veertien dagen; In Finnish: Valoisa kaksi viikkoa; In Spanish: Quincena luminosa; In German: Helle vierzehn Tage; In Swedish: Ljusa fjorton dagar; In Spanish: Quincena brillante; In Malay: Terang dua minggu; In French: Quinzaine lumineuse
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Bright fortnight'
Bright fortnight in Hinduism denotes the lunar phase marked by a waxing moon, signifying growth and auspiciousness. It is a time for significant rituals, vows, and worship, particularly leading up to the full moon.
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) A phase of the lunar month characterized by increasing light, leading up to the full moon.[1] (2) The phase of the lunar month when the moon is waxing, providing a backdrop for the events described.[2] (3) A reference to the lunar cycle where the moon is waxing, metaphorically depicted as bringing positive or beneficial results.[3] (4) He is the bright fortnight (shukla).[4] (5) The lunar phase during which the moon is waxing, indicating a specific day being the sixth in this time.[5]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) The period in the lunar calendar when the moon is waxing, relevant for scheduling Vedic rites.[6] (2) The phase of the lunar month during which one is instructed to read the Vedas.[7]
From: Sankhayana-grihya-sutra
(1) A lunar phase that is considered auspicious for certain rituals, occurring from the new moon to the full moon.[8] (2) The period of the lunar month in Magha that is characterized by the bright phase of the moon.[9]
From: Chandogya Upanishad (english Translation)
(1) A specific lunar phase referred to in the text, indicating a favorable time in the spiritual journey.[10] (2) A period in the lunar calendar that marks the phase after the new moon, serving as a transitional stop for souls on their journey.[11]
From: Chandogya Upanishad (Shankara Bhashya)
(1) The Bright Fortnight refers to the lunar phase during which the moon is waxing, symbolizing growth and enlightenment.[12]
From: Brahma Sutras (Shankaracharya)
(1) A particular timing in the lunar calendar mentioned in the context of the journey to Brahman, emphasizing auspiciousness.[13]
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) A period of the lunar calendar noted for its brightness, enhancing the imagery of the landscape.[14]
From: Nilamata Purana
(1) A lunar phase in which specific worship rituals should be conducted, particularly involving Uccaihsrava.[15]
From: Brihaddharma Purana (abridged)
(1) The lunar phase during which Ganga descended to Earth, signifying auspiciousness.[16]
From: Hayanaratna: The Jewel of Annual Astrology
(1) Bright fortnight is mentioned, and is used to specify the period of time during which the 12th of Ashadha falls.[17] (2) A period of time, from the middle of the eighth day of the bright fortnight up to the middle of the eighth day of the dark fortnight, during which the moon is a benefic.[18] (3) This refers to a specific period of time, and is used to describe the conditions under which Mars' influence is assessed, providing insights into the context of planetary effects, particularly in a nativity.[19]
From: Sushruta Samhita, volume 1: Sutrasthana
(1) A specific lunar phase considered auspicious for conducting the ear piercing procedure.[20]
From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)
(1) The lunar phase during which the rite of investiture is to be performed, as specified by the religious texts.[21]
Jain concept of 'Bright fortnight'
Bright fortnight in Jainism represents a lunar phase of increasing moonlight, symbolizing growth and auspiciousness, with specific significance on the twelfth day of Magha, aligned with spiritual positivity and development.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) A specific time period marked by the bright moon phase, indicating the twelfth day of Magha in this context.[22] (2) The two-week period in a lunar month when the moon is waxing, often associated with auspiciousness and positive energy in spiritual contexts.[23] (3) A lunar phase during which the moon increases in brightness, symbolizing growth and positivity related to the development of the embryo.[24]
The concept of Bright fortnight in local and regional sources
Bright fortnight refers to a lunar phase lasting fifteen days, significant for auspicious events, including the induction of rituals and festivals, and when beneficial celestial alignments suggest positive outcomes, such as longevity for a child born during this time.
From: History of Science in South Asia
(1) The bright fortnight of Praushthapada is when the king bids Indra鈥檚 well-adorned pole enter the city, and it is also the timing for the Indradhvaja ceremony.[25] (2) This is a period of fifteen days in a lunar month, and several Indian festivals are associated with this period, such as Shravana bright fortnight.[26] (3) This is a time frame in the text that describes a specific period of time when the moon is conjunct a benefic in the twelfth, indicating a child will live.[27]
From: Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints
(1) A time of the lunar month marked by bright moonlight, which initially helped the soldiers in their pursuit.[28]