Significance of Heavenly body
Heavenly body holds significant meanings in various contexts. In Buddhism, it refers to a transformed state associated with purity, while in Purana, it signifies spiritual forms attained by animals like rabbits and dogs, as well as divine representations such as Indra's body. Additionally, it relates to individuals engaging in holy practices and the transformation of a doe into a celestial being. In Indian history, the term also describes celestial objects within astrology, including planets like the sun and moon.
Synonyms: Celestial body, Star, Planet, Moon, Comet
In Finnish: Taivaankappale; In Spanish: Cuerpo celestial
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Heavenly body'
In Buddhism, "Heavenly body" signifies a transformed state of being, specifically the elevated form of a hunter, symbolizing divine purity and a profound connection to the natural world.
From: The Fo-Sho-Hing-Tsan-King (A Life of Buddha)
(1) The transformed form of the hunter, associated with divine representation and purity in nature.[1]
Hindu concept of 'Heavenly body'
In Hinduism, a "Heavenly body" signifies various divine forms, including transformed beings like Indra and animals achieving spiritual status through holy practices, reflecting the union of the divine with the mortal, as seen in mystical experiences.
From: Bhagavad-gita-mahatmya
(1) The spiritual form attained by the rabbit and the dog after their experiences in the forest.[2]
From: Markandeya Purana
(1) The transformed state of the doe into a celestial form after being embraced by Svarocis, indicating the intertwining of the divine and mortal realms.[3]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Griffith)
(1) This refers to the body of Indra, the Lord of Gods, upon which the cow's tears fell, indicating the divine.[4]
The concept of Heavenly body in local and regional sources
Heavenly body refers to celestial objects like the sun and moon, which move against fixed stars. In astrology, these bodies are integral as they influence astrological interpretations and are categorized as 'planets.'
From: History of Science in South Asia
(1) This is a term used in astrology to describe any celestial object, including the sun and moon, that appears to move against the background of fixed stars, and is considered a 'planet' in astrological contexts.[5]