Significance of Battle
Synonyms: Conflict, Fight, Combat, Confrontation, Skirmish, Duel, Struggle, Engagement, Warfare, War
In Polish: Bitwa; In Dutch: Strijd; In Finnish: Taistelu; In Spanish: Batalla; In German: Schlacht; In Malay: Pertempuran; In Swedish: Slåss; In French: Bataille; In Portugese: Batalha; In Italian: Battaglia
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Battle'
In Buddhism, "Battle" signifies conflict, a central theme in Chapter 24. It embodies military engagements, assertions of power, and proving one's worth. More broadly, it symbolizes the internal and external struggles faced throughout life, a metaphor for overcoming challenges.
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) A metaphor for the struggle against external and internal challenges one faces in life.[1]
From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) A conflict or military engagement that was suggested by General Alata as a means to assert the king’s power.[2]
From: Hualin International Journal of Buddhist Studies
(1) This is a central element in Chapter 24, and it is described in detail in the Book of Zambasta, and it may reflect influences from the Persian epic Shahnameh and the Indian epic Mahabharata.[3]
From: Apadana commentary (Atthakatha)
(1) The battle was the alternative offered by the small sovereign, threatening to engage in battle if the surrounding kings refused to surrender their kingdoms.[4]
From: Mahavastu (great story)
(1) An event signifying conflict, which Kusha engages in to prove his worth.[5]
Hindu concept of 'Battle'
In Hinduism, "Battle" encompasses diverse conflicts: physical clashes between armies (Kauravas/Pandavas), divine interventions, and individual warrior feats. It extends to confrontations between deities and demons, showcasing valor, strategy, and ethical warfare, often with tragic outcomes and displays of divine power.
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) This is a conflict or war, and sacrificing oneself in such a context, especially for a righteous cause, is seen as an act of great courage and selflessness that can lead to spiritual purification.[6] (2) The word "battle" is mentioned when Drona explains that those who are always encouraging Duryodhana will throw the burthen of hostility on other’s necks during the time of battle.[7] (3) Battle is the inevitable outcome foreseen due to the hostility towards the Pandavas, with the sons of Pandu fighting on great cars and aided by allies.[8] (4) The battle is the ongoing conflict, with descriptions of warriors engaging and the sounds of trumpets and drums.[9] (5) The text refers to a conflict that cannot be for any other purpose than destruction of the universe, according to Matali.[10]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Griffith)
(1) The battle was furious, with each side resolved to either die or win, emphasizing the high stakes and unwavering determination of the combatants.[11] (2) Rama wonders how he will have heart for battle now, when his brother lies before his eyes, and expresses that life, war and conquest are all vain.[12] (3) The narrative mentions a battle in which Indrajit's strong right hand will be able to withstand the fury of any foe, indicating combat.[13] (4) Battle is the central conflict between Rama and the giants, where weapons were used, and the giants were defeated in a bloody confrontation.[14] (5) The battle is a fierce conflict where the Vanars engaged in a deadly fight, using various weapons like rocks and trees to confront the giant and ultimately meet their fate.[15]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Shastri)
(1) The Yakshas set out joyfully in order to give battle, showing their willingness to engage in combat and defend their territory.[16] (2) The battle is the central event, with Indrajita and Lakshmana engaging in a fierce exchange of attacks and counter-attacks, showcasing their skills and determination to overcome each other; honest men do not render themselves invisible on the field of battle.[17] (3) A conflict between the monkeys and the titans, marked by a formidable struggle, the exchange of stones and arrows, and the eventual defeat of the titans after the death of their leader.[18] (4) Akampana is incapable of trembling in battle even before the Gods themselves.[19] (5) The conflict between Rama and the demons, prompted by the actions of Shurpanakha.[20]
From: Harivamsha Purana
(1) The battle is the context in which Krishna and Jvara interact, with Krishna ultimately subduing Jvara and granting him a boon that defines his role in the world.[21] (2) This intense armed conflict involves Pradyumna against Shamvara and his forces, resulting in widespread death and destruction.[22] (3) A reoccurring event in the provided text that features the use of weapons, powers, and warriors.[23] (4) The celestial army stood wonderfully for the battle, assisted by Kuvera and strengthened by the war-like gods.[24] (5) This is a term that refers to the conflict between Narayana and the demons, lasting for a thousand years, indicating struggle.[25]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) Maha Lakshmi threatens to kill Mahisha in battle, just as she has killed countless Asuras like him in yugas after yugas.[26] (2) A term used ambiguously in the text to refer both to physical combat and a metaphorical struggle for sexual union.[27] (3) The conflict that is anticipated between the Devi and the forces of Mahisha.[28]
From: Markandeya Purana
(1) This violent encounter involved kings, princes, and warriors, employing various weapons and tactics, resulting in injuries, deaths, and shifts in power dynamics.[29] (2) The text describes a prolonged fight between the gods and Asuras, and the subsequent battle between the goddess Candika and the Asuras, filled with weapons, armies, and destruction.[30] (3) A battle is mentioned as occurring between Bhananda and his kinsmen after he demanded half of the kingdom, showcasing his skill in the use of weapons.[31]
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) It raged with the impetuosity of rolling waves, featuring arms that flamed with living fire and fiery lightnings.[32]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) The scene appears to depict a "battle" with a fleeing army and Shalva engaging in combat, and this sets the stage for understanding the conflict and the actions of the characters.[33] (2) A conflict or fight that occurred in Tripura, during which Lord Vishnu gave a bow.[34] (3) The battle serves as the setting for the described events, providing the context for the actions of Rukmi and Lord Krishna.[35] (4) A battle is described, suggesting a conflict or fight is a central event within the narrative.[36] (5) This is where the bow is readied by the individual.[37]
From: Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu
(1) A military engagement or combat scenario in which Krishna showcased his divine powers against the warriors under Narakasura.[38]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) The individual was a heroic warrior in this, indicating a display of courage and skill in combat situations.[39]
From: Prem Sagar (English translation)
(1) The battle is a central conflict between the descendants of Yadu and the forces of Sissoopal and Jurasindhu, involving weapons, warriors, and bloodshed, highlighting the courage and strength.[40]
From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)
(1) The battle is a great feast for heroes, a conflict between Suryaprabha's forces and Shrutasharman's army, filled with clashing weapons, loud shouts, and rivers of blood.[41] (2) The conflict between King Camarabala and the armies of the five kings, resulting in King Camarabala's victory and the capture of the opposing rulers.[42] (3) The confrontation between Vikramaditya and Narasimha that illustrates the might of both kings and leads Vikramaditya to seek alternative strategies to achieve his goals.[43] (4) The conflict between Naravahanadatta's forces and his enemies, characterized by intense combat and heroism.[44] (5) An encounter Mrigankadatta is preparing for to achieve his goal of marrying Shashankavati.[45]
From: Naishadha-charita of Shriharsha
(1) This is something that heroes discard their earthly bodies in, in order to betake themselves to the magnificence of Indra's hospitality.[46]
From: Hayanaratna: The Jewel of Annual Astrology
(1) Battle is a term described in the text, linked to the eighth house, referring to a conflict or struggle, which can manifest in various aspects of a person's life, from personal to external conflicts.[47] (2) This word refers to the engagement in a fight or struggle, which is considered an aspect of the twelfth house in astrological judgments, as explained in the given text.[48]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) The actual affray or engagement in combat during a military conflict, study is forbidden even if not engaged.[49] (2) The text mentions individuals killed while fleeing from battle, implying a dangerous and potentially fatal situation.[50]
From: Satapatha-brahmana
(1) A metaphorical battle occurs during the performance of the fore-offerings, representing the contest between gods and rivals for control of the seasons.[51]
From: Hitopadesha (English translation)
(1) The central conflict in the narrative representing physical and moral confrontations between kings and their armies.[52]
Jain concept of 'Battle'
In Jainism, "Battle" encompasses various violent confrontations: Megharatha versus Surendradatta, Rama's forces against the Mleccha army, and conflicts stemming from Vasudeva and Rohini's marriage. These battles involve armies, evoke excitement among bards, and showcase kings' bravery, all underscored by the beating of the battle-drum.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) This is a conflict between armies, marked by the sounding of drums and the clash of weapons. It is described as terrible as the end of the world.[53] (2) The battle between Hanumat and Aksha highlights Hanumat's superior strength, demonstrating his capability to overcome powerful opponents and progress towards his mission.[54] (3) The battle is a recurring element in the text, depicting the clashes between Bharata's army and the Kiratas or Mlecchas, and the descriptions of the battles highlight the use of various weapons, tactics, and the courage and skill of the warriors involved.[55] (4) A battle is described in which the king Bhupala was defeated by numerous adversaries who had formed an alliance against him in Bharatakshetra.[56] (5) A battle started between the two armies, making the sky seem to have a fall of meteors from the fall of lances, as the soldiers fought.[57]
From: Sutrakritanga (English translation)
(1) Individuals proceed to the front of a battle, but once the conflict begins, a mother may not recognize her own son, as he will be wounded by his enemy.[58]
From: Bhagavati-sutra (Viyaha-pannatti)
(1) During the Rathamushala battle, chariots, horses, and charioteers moved chaotically, causing widespread destruction, killing numerous individuals, and turning the soil muddy with blood.[59]
The concept of Battle in local and regional sources
Battle symbolizes various conflicts: a metaphorical struggle uniting yoga and supermind, a personal quest for self-awareness, the triumph over ignorance, the clash between opposing forces, individual challenges requiring guidance, and the strategic assessment of a situation.
From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda
(1) Battle is used as a metaphor for life's challenges, and the author vows to never retreat, even in the face of defeat, emphasizing the importance of fighting with courage and determination.[60] (2) The field of battle is a metaphor, where death for the cause is the ultimate goal, not success.[61] (3) The text refers to the battle that begins when a person begins to question their motives and realizes that they are urged on by a power beyond their control.[62] (4) The event whose noise was quelled, arising from this event, who destroyed the terrible yet natural night of ignorance, and who roared out the Gita sweet and appeasing, and that soul is now born as Shri Ramakrishna.[63] (5) Battle is the field that the charioteer surveyed while reining in his horses and noting the disposition of the forces.[64]
From: Triveni Journal
(1) This represents the personal struggles and challenges that individuals face, where the Warrior's guidance is essential for victory.[65] (2) This refers to the war between a coward of enormous physical strength (Red man) and Satyagrahi of oceanic spiritual strength; between the man who robs and the spirit that tries to persuade the robber against his crime.[66] (3) The metaphorical conflict in which the victory is ensured when Yoga, action, mind, and supermind are united, as indicated by the commentary.[67]
Classical concept of 'Battle'
From: The Iliad of Homer (English translation)
(1) A state of conflict and warfare, results in loss and suffering, impacting individuals, families, and communities, underscoring the destructive consequences of violence and the need for reconciliation.[68] (2) It is an event where Hector's heart was set upon doing it with Achilles, as the old man implored him to come within the walls.[69] (3) The day will come, either at dawn or dark, or at the noontide, when one shall take my life also in battle, either with his spear, or with an arrow sped from his bow[70] (4) The blaze of battle is on the point of being kindled between the Trojans and Achaeans, as referenced in the text, highlighting the impending conflict and its potential intensity.[71] (5) The battle is a fierce and prolonged struggle between the Trojans and Achaeans over the body of Patroclus, marked by intense fighting, heavy losses, and the intervention of gods.[72]
From: The History of Herodotus
(1) A conflict in which the Athenians were the best men, and of the Athenians Hermolycos the son of Euthoinos, a man who had trained for the pancration.[73] (2) The battle resulted in significant losses for both sides, with the Hellenes ultimately prevailing over the Barbarians after a fierce and prolonged fight.[74] (3) The battle was delayed for ten days, with neither side initiating an attack, and Mardonios eventually decided to engage despite unfavorable offerings, setting the stage for conflict.[75] (4) The battle involves the Hellenes and Persians, including cavalry attacks and disputes over army positions.[76] (5) The Hellenes made preparations to engage in a battle, which was planned to occur on the following day after they ranged their ships.[77]
From: The Argonautica (English translation)
(1) The narrative references the potential for battle, indicating a state of conflict or warfare between opposing forces.[78] (2) The battle is considered as a potential course of action if Aeetes is froward, indicating a possible conflict scenario.[79] (3) The battle is the boxing match between Polydeuces and Amycus, a deadly struggle that determines the fate of the heroes and the Bebrycian king.[80] (4) The din of battle, terrible and furious, fell upon the people of the Doliones, resulting in many champions being slain during the fight.[81] (5) A conflict is engaged in with the Earthborn, resulting in their slaughter.[82]
From: Aesop's Fables (English translation)
(1) Battle refers to the conflict or fight between opposing forces, where the trumpet stirs the soldiers to participate.[83] (2) The battle is at its height between the Dolphins and Whales, illustrating a critical point in their conflict where resolution seems unlikely due to their unwillingness to compromise.[84] (3) The battle signifies the charger's former occupation, a state where it actively participated in warfare, contrasting sharply with its current assignment to grind in a mill due to its aging condition.[85]
From: The Odyssey of Homer (English translation)
(1) The battle that is mentioned refers to the conflict at Troy, which highlights Ulysses' past experiences and the hardships he endured before returning home.[86] (2) It is a conflict where Ulysses may have perished, although the exact circumstances are unknown.[87]
From: The Authoress of the Odyssey
(1) The battle ensues after Ulysses reveals himself and kills Antinous, leading to a fierce struggle between Ulysses, his son, and loyal servants against the numerous suitors.[88]
From: The Nicomachean Ethics of Aristotle
(1) The context of "battle" is presented as a noble circumstance for death, making it a situation where the brave man's fearlessness is most relevant, as these deaths are honored in city-states and at the courts of monarchs.[89]
From: Ancient Egypt the Light of the World
(1) In the Ritual the dissolution and re-establishing of the earth by setting up the pillars immediately follows the battle with the sebau, the Apap, and Sut, signifying the triumph over chaos.[90]
From: Egypt Through The Stereoscope
(1) An event where a ruler is depicted fighting enemies, either in a chariot or on foot, using weapons such as a bow, sword, and javelin.[91]