Significance of Benedictory verses
Benedictory verse, according to various traditions, refers to an introductory chant or prayer typically found at the beginning of spiritual, philosophical texts, dramas, or rituals. In Jainism, it marks the opening of the Yogadrishtisamuccaya and serves multiple purposes, including auspicious intentions and blessing recitations. Other traditions, such as Natyashastra, describe it as a ceremonial chant for the welfare of the audience, while Kavya highlights its usage in worship. Overall, the concept embodies a blend of blessings and auspiciousness across diverse cultural contexts.
Synonyms: Blessing, Benediction, Prayer, Invocation
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Benedictory verses'
Benedictory verse in Hinduism serves as an introductory chant bestowing blessings and good wishes, often recited by Brahmins at the onset of texts, speeches, or dramas to ensure auspicious beginnings and acknowledge deities.
From: Dasarupaka (critical study)
(1) Benedictory verse (nandi) is a traditional introductory chant not used by Mahendravarman in the Mattavilasa.[1] (2) A ceremonial stanza recited at the beginning of the play, which Bhasa does not employ before his prologue.[2] (3) Verses used for the welfare of the audience and actors, typically including a prayer to a deity for grace and protection.[3] (4) A traditional verse often recited at the beginning of dramas, absent in the Urubhanga.[4] (5) The benedictory verse, known as nandi, is recited by the stage manager at the beginning of the prologue. It serves to bless the performance and is traditionally presented before the prologue.[5]
From: Hanuman Nataka (critical study)
(1) A type of verse that offers blessings and is associated with eulogizing deities, priests, and kings.[6]
From: Kavyamimamsa of Rajasekhara (Study)
(1) A verse recited to secure auspicious beginnings and thwart inauspicious events during the start of a literary work.[7]
From: Samarangana-sutradhara (Summary)
(1) A verse expressing good wishes or blessings, typically offered at the beginning of a text or speech.[8]
From: Amarakoshodghatana of Kshirasvamin (study)
(1) A verse to pay homage or respect, mentioned by Kshirasvamin in relation to his work.[9]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) Verses recited, known as 'Svastyayanam', that are meant to secure blessings and welfare during marriage rituals.[10]
From: Harivamsha Purana
(1) Blessings recited by a Brahmana, often included as part of the offerings made during religious ceremonies.[11]
From: Malatimadhava (study)
(1) Verses expressing blessings that Bhavabhuti used to worship deities like lord Shiva, Ganesha, and the Sun.[12]
Jain concept of 'Benedictory verses'
The Benedictory verse in Jainism serves as an auspicious introduction to the Yogadrishtisamuccaya, delineating its purpose and subject while embodying a prayerful invocation commonly preceding spiritual texts.
From: Yogadrstisamuccaya of Haribhadra Suri (Study)
(1) A specific verse within the Yogadrishtisamuccaya divided into two parts; one for the auspicious introduction and the other for the purpose and subject of the text.[13] (2) A prayer or invocation that traditionally precedes spiritual or philosophical texts, marking the opening of the Yogadrishtisamuccaya.[14] (3) An introductory verse that expresses auspicious intentions, typically found at the beginning of spiritual texts.[15] (4) The introductory verse of the Yogadrishtisamuccaya that discusses the direct and indirect purposes of the text.[16]
The concept of Benedictory verses in local and regional sources
Benedictory verse involves praises recited by artists to honor the Triple Gem and invoke blessings during rituals, often using specially composed Sanskrit verses that enhance the cultural significance of these events.
From: Buddhist Ceremonies and Rituals of Sri Lanka
(1) Praises recited by the bali artist that extol the virtues of the Triple Gem and invoke blessings during the ritual.[17]
From: Triveni Journal
(1) Specially composed verses in Sanskrit for the occasion, highlighting the cultural significance of the event.[18]