Suttee meaning

Suttee definitions

Suttee: Understanding the Controversial Hindu Practice

Origins of Suttee

Suttee, also known as sati, is an ancient Hindu funeral custom that involves a widow immolating herself on her husband's funeral pyre. This practice has been a subject of debate and controversy for centuries. The origins of the ritual can be traced back to ancient texts and historical accounts, where it was seen as a way for a woman to display her devotion and loyalty to her husband, even in death.

The Practice of Suttee

In traditional Hindu society, suttee was considered a noble act and was believed to bring honor to both the deceased husband and the grieving widow. The act was voluntary, and women who chose to practice suttee were seen as highly respected within their communities. However, over time, the practice became more contentious, with many questioning its true voluntary nature and the pressures that may have been placed on widows to partake in such a dangerous and extreme act.

Controversy and Abolition

Suttee faced increasing scrutiny and criticism during the British colonial period in India. The practice was eventually banned in 1829 by the British East India Company, following years of campaigning by British and Indian social reformers who saw suttee as a barbaric and inhumane custom. The ban on suttee was later reinforced by legislation passed by the British Raj in 1861.

Legacy and Modern Views

Today, suttee remains a controversial topic in discussions about cultural traditions, religious practices, and women's rights. While the practice has been officially abolished, there are still occasional reports of isolated cases of suttee in remote areas of India. The legacy of suttee continues to provoke conversations about gender equality, autonomy, and the intersection of tradition and human rights in modern society.

Suttee Examples

1. The practice of suttee was banned in India in the 19th century.
2. She read a historical novel that depicted a scene of suttee.
3. The controversial tradition of suttee was a topic of debate among scholars.
4. The movie showcased the ritual of suttee as part of its storyline.
5. The practice of suttee was considered inhumane by many outsiders.
6. He studied the cultural significance of suttee in ancient civilizations.
7. Suttee was a ritualistic act of self-sacrifice performed by widows.
8. The religious ceremony involved in suttee was a controversial subject.
9. Historians debated the origins of the tradition of suttee.
10. The custom of suttee was practiced in certain regions of South Asia.

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