Significance of Cardinal point
Synonyms: Main direction, Direction
In Dutch: Hoofdpunt; In Finnish: Kardinaalipiste; In Spanish: Punto cardinal; In German: Himmelsrichtung; In Swedish: Kardinalpunkt; In Malay: Titik kardinal; In French: Point cardinal
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Cardinal point'
In Buddhism, the term "Cardinal point" can be interpreted as fundamental beliefs central to the practice, directional awareness during meditation, and the clarification of reverence towards one's teacher rather than physical directions alone.
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) The four primary directions in meditation that a lion surveys, symbolizing awareness of one’s surroundings.[1] (2) Directional markers (north, south, east, west) that Sariputta was mistakenly thought to be reverencing, which was clarified by the Buddha to refer to his teacher.[2]
From: Milindapanha (questions of King Milinda)
(1) Fundamental tenets or beliefs central to the practice and understanding of Buddhism.[3]
Hindu concept of 'Cardinal point'
In Hinduism, the term "Cardinal point" encompasses the four primary directions (North, South, East, West), symbolizing orientation in architecture, cosmology, and spirituality, while also embodying protective deities and significant cultural rituals.
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) The four main directions (north, south, east, west) from which people often arrive, highlighting the inclusive nature of the ministering priests.[4] (2) The four primary directions (North, South, East, West) that are significant in navigation and ritualistic contexts.[5] (3) The four main directions (north, south, east, west) that symbolize the expansiveness of the creation attributed to the Deity.[6] (4) The directions (north, south, east, west) in which Sagara's sons searched for the sacrificial horse, symbolizing their thorough quest.[7] (5) The four main directions (north, south, east, west) where elephants are said to be positioned on the mountain.[8]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Shastri)
(1) The direction in which the numerous darts and arrows fell during the battle, overwhelming the atmosphere.[9] (2) The four main directions (North, South, East, West) as referenced in battle.[10] (3) The four main directions that are important in various cultural and religious contexts, mentioned as contributing to Rama's happiness.[11] (4) The four directions, which were described as being stilled after the defeat of Ravana.[12] (5) The four primary directions; in this context, refers to the widespread sound created by Rama twanging his bow.[13]
From: Vishnu Purana
(1) The four primary directions (north, south, east, west) to which the regents of cities are associated in relation to the sun's movements.[14] (2) The main directions (north, south, east, west) referenced in the context of invoking protection from various deities.[15]
From: Garuda Purana
(1) The four primary directions used to orient the worship of deities around the mystic Mandalam.[16]
From: Vastu-shastra (Introduction to Indian architecture)
(1) Directions utilized in planning and orientation in architectural design and construction.[17] (2) The four primary directions (North, South, East, West) that influence the placement and orientation of doors in architectural design.[18] (3) The four principal directions (North, South, East, West) used in orientation and planning activities when selecting a site for construction.[19] (4) The primary directions (North, South, East, West) used for orientation in architectural design.[20]
From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)
(1) The four main directions upon which Thinthakarala buried pitchers containing wealth as part of his deceitful plot.[21] (2) The four primary directions (North, East, South, West) that Vyaghrasena was unable to locate.[22]
From: Naishadha-charita of Shriharsha
(1) Four directional deities representing various virtues and powers, intersecting with Nala's identity.[23]
From: Prashna Upanishad with Shankara’s Commentary
(1) The primary directions or fundamental aspects related to existence.[24] (2) The primary directions (north, south, east, west) which the sun lights up.[25]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad Bhashya Vartika
(1) The directions or points of the compass, which are seen as organs of the god Viraj.[26]
From: Manasara (English translation)
(1) The four primary directions - north, south, east, and west - critical for city planning.[27] (2) The four primary directions (north, south, east, west) that are determined through the use of a gnomon.[28]
From: Sri Krishna-Chaitanya
(1) The central or most important aspect of a concept or doctrine.[29]
The concept of Cardinal point in local and regional sources
Cardinal points refer to the four primary directions—north, south, east, and west—essential for temple alignments, where east and west signify the sun's rising and setting, and they relate to shared religious doctrines.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) The four main directions (north, south, east, west) that are referenced in relation to temple alignments.[30] (2) Three fundamental doctrines that most religions share: belief in God, belief in the Soul, and the belief in the efficacy of prayers.[31]
From: History of Science in South Asia
(1) The cardinal points are personified by eight divinities, referred to as vidyadharas, who are responsible for accomplishing a given ritual action and medicine of the direction.[32] (2) The east and west cardinal points are defined by the rising and setting of the sun, as explained by the text within the provided context.[33]
From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda
(1) The cardinal points are described as the four parts of Brahman, signifying that Brahman is all-encompassing and present in all directions, and in everything.[34]