Significance of Balarama
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Balarama'
Balarama, in Hinduism, is Krishna's elder brother, celebrated for his strength and loyalty. He plays a vital role as a protector, companion, and divine figure, embodying kshatriya qualities and aiding in various mythological events.
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) The elder brother of Lord Krishna, who accompanied him during his triumph and entry into Mathura.[1] (2) Krsna's brother who participated in many of the divine activities and pastimes alongside him.[2] (3) The brother of Krishna, who accompanies Him during the interaction with King Nanda.[3] (4) The brother of Lord Krishna, associated with strength and support.[4] (5) Balarama is the companion of Krishna, accompanying the gopas.[5]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) The figure positioned on the right of Jagannatha, associated with strength and farming in Hindu mythology.[6] (2) A divine figure closely associated with Krishna, recognized as worthy of service and devotion.[7] (3) A prominent deity in Hindu tradition, often viewed as an incarnation of the Supreme Being and associated with strength and service.[8] (4) The incarnation of the Lord who carried a plow and aided in subduing wicked forces.[9] (5) The figure whose glories are sung by devotees, known for his significance in devotional contexts.[10]
From: Prem Sagar (English translation)
(1) The brother of Lord Krishna, who is also depicted as a loyal and obedient figure.[11] (2) Krishna's brother, who becomes involved in inter-kingdom conflicts during the marriage festivities.[12] (3) Krishna's brother, who often accompanies him in his adventures and marriages.[13] (4) The sibling of Shri Krishna, present in the assembly.[14] (5) Known as the abode of happiness, he is Krishna's brother and plays a significant role in comforting the cowherdesses.[15]
From: Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu
(1) Referred to as a respectable figure, pleaded not to take up a heavy club.[16] (2) Another prominent figure, considered equally excellent among the friends mentioned.[17] (3) A reference to a figure or figures considered significant in the battle, mentioned in terms of their strength or capability.[18] (4) A key figure in the narrative, expressing complex emotions and relationships with other characters, particularly related to affection.[19]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) Shri Krishna's brother who accompanies Him in wandering and sporting in Vrindavana.[20] (2) A character who shows affection to Krishna and plays a key role in lifting Him up and making Him sit down.[21]
From: Tiruvaymoli (Thiruvaimozhi): English translation
(1) An incarnation of the Lord known for his white complexion.[22]
From: Bhajana-Rahasya
(1) Krishna's brother, noted for His elegance and unique beauty when accompanying Krishna.[23]
From: Sri Krishna-Chaitanya
(1) An expansion of Krishna, identified as the serving self of Krishna in the realm of Goloka.[24]
From: Bhagavata Purana
(1) The mighty figure to whom Sukanya’s father was advised to marry his daughter, seen as a powerful and virtuous man.[25] (2) Krishna's brother and a prominent character in the Mahabharata.[26] (3) Krishna's companion who accompanies him into the forests and participates in his playful activities.[27] (4) Krishna's brother, who is also present during the events in Vrindavana and plays a supportive role.[28] (5) Krishna's brother who rushes to assist Krishna upon hearing of the hostile preparations against him.[29]
From: Skanda Purana
(1) An incarnation of Vishnu and brother of Krishna who actively participated in the battle against the demons.[30] (2) A deity mentioned in connection with Shiva, indicating his importance in various rituals and divine narratives.[31] (3) Krishna's powerful brother who plays a crucial role in the story by redeeming Rukmi from his fate.[32] (4) The brother of Krishna, often involved in battles against demonic forces.[33]
From: Vishnu Purana (Taylor)
(1) The incarnation of Lord Vishnu, depicted as strong and wise, who marries Revati, fulfilling divine plans.[34] (2) Krishna's brother, known for his strength and prowess in battle, who eventually became enraged at Krishna over the search for the jewel.[35] (3) Krishna's brother who was present during the events surrounding the abduction of Rukmini and the ensuing battles.[36] (4) Krishna’s brother, known for his strength and depicted as snowy and clad in blue.[37]
From: Vishnu Purana
(1) Krishna's elder brother who assists him and plays a role in repelling the princes attempting to rescue Rukmini.[38] (2) Another name for Baladeva, notable for his strength and involvement in the conflicts throughout the narrative.[39] (3) A character who finds wine in a tree, becomes inebriated, commands the Yamuna river, and returns to Dvaraka to marry Revati.[40]
From: Brahma Purana
(1) Krishna's brother, whose passing was a significant event impacting Krishna and the Yadavas.[41] (2) The brother of Krishna who participated in defeating the Asuras, including Pralamba.[42] (3) Balarama is associated with the holy rites and is noted for sporting about with Revati.[43]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) The elder brother of Krishna who assisted him in his divine mission to alleviate the burdens of Earth.[44] (2) The elder brother of Krishna, noted for his strength and celebrated as a great warrior and part incarnation.[45]
From: Agni Purana
(1) The son born to Rohini from Vasudeva, also known as Bala.[46]
From: Markandeya Purana (Study)
(1) Character in the Purana who is referenced in the context of pilgrimage and freeing himself from sin.[47]
From: Garuda Purana
(1) Seventh son of Devaki, a prominent figure and brother to Krishna.[48]
From: Harivamsha Purana
(1) Krishna's elder brother, who accompanies him and shares in the significant events surrounding their family and kingdom.[49]
From: Dasarupaka (critical study)
(1) The brother of Krishna who becomes angry upon learning of Shishupala's intentions and vows to make him surrender.[50] (2) Duryodhana's teacher in mace fighting and an observer during the war who witnesses Krishna's secret sign.[51] (3) A character in the drama who displays furious sentiment upon hearing attacks against him and Krishna, and seeks to protect his brother.[52] (4) Krishna's angry brother, who is fiercely loyal and protective towards Rukmini.[53]
From: Sahitya-kaumudi by Baladeva Vidyabhushana
(1) Refers to the brother of Krishna, associated with strength and support, particularly within the context of divine pastimes.[54]
From: Shat-cakra-nirupana (the six bodily centres)
(1) Balarama is mentioned as a point of comparison for the whiteness of Nada, indicating its brightness.[55]
From: Shishupala-vadha (Study)
(1) The elder brother of Shrikrishna, known for his strength and agricultural contributions.[56]