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Significance of Ray

The keyphrase "Ray" holds multifaceted meanings in various philosophical texts. In Vedanta, Ray symbolizes connections between physical and spiritual realms, depicting pathways for the soul after death, and representing mind tendencies guiding thoughts. It is also identified as a divine light linking individual self to the cosmic essence. In Dharmashastra, Ray indicates the act of offering possessions, while Kavyashastra sees it as a transformative light from divine sources that enhances beauty. These interpretations underline the significant spiritual and cultural roles of Ray.1
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Synonyms: Beam, Light, Radiation, Shaft, Wave, Streak

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

Hindu concept of 'Ray'

Hinduism Books

In Hinduism, "Ray" represents divine light, influencing mind tendencies, guiding the soul post-death, and enhancing beauty of sacred objects. It symbolizes spiritual pathways and connects physical and spiritual realms, embodying aspects of creation and offering.

Significance in Vedanta (school of philosophy):
Vedanta Books

From: Brahma Sutras (Shankaracharya)

(1) This is one of the worlds sent forth by the Self, as described in the Aitareyaka text, and it is an element of the creation.[1] (2) The pathways that the soul follows after leaving the physical form, and the text explains how the soul departs upwards along these.[2] (3) The rays are not something that the soul cannot follow by night, because the connection between the veins and rays persists as long as the body exists according to the scripture.[3]

From: Brihadaranyaka Upanishad

(1) Symbolizes the divine light or energy that connects the solar being and the individual self.[4]

From: Prashna Upanishad with Shankara’s Commentary

(1) Symbolically indicates the tendencies or inclinations of the mind that guide its thoughts and actions.[5]

From: Chandogya Upanishad (english Translation)

(1) Described as the smoke produced by the sacrificial fire, connecting the physical phenomenon to the spiritual symbolism.[6]

Vedanta refers to a school of orthodox Hindu philosophy (astika), drawing its subject-matter from the Upanishads. There are a number of sub-schools of Vedanta, however all of them expound on the basic teaching of the ultimate reality (brahman) and liberation (moksha) of the individual soul (atman).

Significance in Dharmashastra (religious law):
Dharmashastra Books

From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi

(1) A term used when someone offers items from their possession, encouraging acceptance.[7]

Dharmashastra contains the instructions (shastra) regarding religious conduct of livelihood (dharma), ceremonies, jurisprudence (study of law) and more. It is categorized as smriti, an important and authoritative selection of books dealing with the Hindu lifestyle.

The concept of Ray in local and regional sources

History Books

Ray signifies an expansive influence, as described in the text, suggesting a pervasive emanation that spreads in multiple directions, both above, below, and sideways, indicating a comprehensive reach or effect.

Significance in India history and geography:

From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda

(1) These spread above, below, and sideways, suggesting an expansive, all-encompassing influence or emanation, extending in all directions.[8]

Plural form: Rays.