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Significance of Outward sign

Outward sign in Jainism denotes visible behaviors or symbols that reflect adherence to spiritual practices. In Theravada Buddhism, it has two meanings: first, two specific characteristics that signal a Samana's worthiness for respect; second, physical indicators that distinguish a layman from a follower of another doctrine, which should not be exhibited by a Bhikkhu. This highlights how different spiritual traditions interpret outward signs related to one's spiritual identity and practices.

Synonyms: Indication, Expression, Evidence, Indicator, Symbol, Token, Mark

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Buddhist concept of 'Outward sign'

Buddhism Books

In Buddhism, "Outward sign" denotes visible traits indicating a Samana's respectability and the physical markers distinguishing a Bhikkhu from laymen or followers of other doctrines, which should be avoided by practitioners.

Significance in Theravada (major branch of Buddhism):
Theravada Books

From: Vinaya (3): The Cullavagga

(1) The physical indicators that denote whether one is a layman or a follower of another doctrine, which a Bhikkhu should not display.[1]

From: Milindapanha (questions of King Milinda)

(1) Two specific visible characteristics that indicate the worthiness of a Samana for salutation and respect.[2]

Theravada is a major branch of Buddhism having the the Pali canon (tipitaka) as their canonical literature, which includes the vinaya-pitaka (monastic rules), the sutta-pitaka (Buddhist sermons) and the abhidhamma-pitaka (philosophy and psychology).

Jain concept of 'Outward sign'

Jainism Books

Outward sign in Jainism signifies visible behaviors or symbols that demonstrate an individual's commitment to spiritual practices and adherence to the religious laws of the faith.

Significance in Jainism (general):

From: Acaranga-sutra

(1) Visible behaviors or symbols that indicate one’s adherence to spiritual practices or laws.[3]

Jainism is an Indian religion of Dharma whose doctrine revolves around harmlessness (ahimsa) towards every living being. The two major branches (Digambara and Svetambara) of Jainism stimulate self-control (or, shramana, ‘self-reliance�) and spiritual development through a path of peace for the soul to progess to the ultimate goal.

Plural form: Outward signs.