Significance of Dancing
Synonyms: Swaying, Moving, Shaking
In Dutch: Dansen; In Finnish: Tanssiminen; In Spanish: Baile; In German: Tanzen
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Dancing'
In Buddhism, dancing is viewed as an art form deemed inappropriate for Bhikkhus, who are prohibited from participating or attending such activities, reflecting the tradition's emphasis on restraint and detachment from worldly pleasures.
From: Vinaya (3): The Cullavagga
(1) An art form that the Bhikkhus were prohibited from participating in or attending.[1]
Hindu concept of 'Dancing'
In Hinduism, dancing is a multifaceted expression of joy and devotion, encompassing rhythmic movement as a performance art, spiritual celebration, and an emotional experience linked to divine presence, often enhancing communal worship and cultural identity.
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) An activity that was occurring, during which chanting took place.[2] (2) The act of moving rhythmically to music.[3] (3) An activity associated with joy and expression, which is contrasted with the Lord's lack of happiness on this occasion.[4] (4) A physical activity involving movement, often associated with joy and expression; here it represents the act of engaging in devotional practices.[5] (5) An activity in which Gaura Raya participated before expressing his emotions.[6]
From: Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu
(1) A physical expression of movement to music, commonly associated with the state of unmada.[7] (2) A form of external transformation involving movement of the body, often in rhythm to music.[8] (3) A form of artistic movement typically performed during celebrations or festivals, as referenced in the context of Krishna's festival.[9] (4) Describes the lively, animated movement of the eyebrows, suggesting vitality and allure.[10] (5) The act of moving rhythmically to music, as described in the text when Lord Shiva begins to dance.[11]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) the act of moving rhythmically to music, performed by the residents of Vraja[12] (2) The action of moving rhythmically to music, as described by the term 'nrityantah' in the context of the text.[13] (3) A form of expression performed in the presence of Krishna, associated with joy and celebration.[14]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) The act performed by Shri Narada as he energetically expresses his joy and devotion in response to his music and the themes sung.[15] (2) Movement performed as part of worship, often reflecting joy and devotion to the divine.[16]
From: Bhajana-Rahasya
(1) An anubhava characterized by rhythmic movement often associated with expressions of joy in devotion.[17]
From: Tiruvaymoli (Thiruvaimozhi): English translation
(1) A physical manifestation of joy and devotion displayed by the devotees through movement and dance in worship.[18]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) Throwing about of the limbs in a particular manner, as is well known among people.[19] (2) Participating in rhythmic movement to music, which is advised against due to potential distractions from moral duties.[20]
From: Rasa Jala Nidhi, vol 4: Iatrochemistry
(1) An activity specifically recommended to be avoided 48 minutes post meal to ensure proper digestion.[21]
The concept of Dancing in local and regional sources
Dancing is portrayed as a multifaceted action: it embodies Shiva's creative energy, serves as a deceptive distraction for the Santal, and reflects intense pleasure and spiritual immersion in various contexts.
From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda
(1) The action performed by the subject, indicating movement and likely expressing a feeling of intense pleasure and spiritual absorption.[22] (2) The action performed by Shiva, the all-destroyer, the Lord of creation, the Master of Yoga, and the wielder of Pinaka, and the one whose flaming locks have filled the sky.[23]
From: Folklore of the Santal Parganas
(1) The act the Santal uses as a pretense to distract and deceive the money-lender.[24]