Significance of Brahma himself
Brahma himself, a pivotal figure in Hindu mythology, is recognized as the creator deity involved in the cosmic cycle of creation, maintenance, and destruction. This entity plays various roles across different texts and traditions, including the creation of sacred scriptures and the expansion of spiritual knowledge. In Vaishnavism, he acknowledges a higher divine presence in Mahadeva, while in Ayurveda, he is the source of Ayurvedic wisdom. Brahma's multifaceted nature demonstrates his significance within the divine hierarchy and spiritual teachings of Hinduism.
Synonyms: Brahma, The creator, Grandfather, Prajapati, Svayambhu, Vidhi
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Brahma himself'
In Buddhism, Brahma represents a significant deity whose power is acknowledged, yet he upholds the moral principles without overriding the Tathagata's teachings. His role emphasizes companionship in virtue, rather than control over moral conduct.
From: Milindapanha (questions of King Milinda)
(1) A significant deity in Buddhist belief who could also theoretically keep the Tathagata's hut dry but whose actions would not override the principles of moral conduct.[1]
Hindu concept of 'Brahma himself'
Brahma in Hinduism embodies the creator god and supreme consciousness, revered for granting wisdom and penance. He represents the ultimate reality, the source of all existence, and the cosmic cycle of creation, knowledge, and divine order.
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) The ultimate reality or consciousness that exists in a serene state, from which all creation is derived.[2] (2) Referenced as the ultimate reality or creative force that exists prior to and manifests as the world.[3] (3) The supreme being symbolizing the chill and clarity of the cosmos.[4] (4) The ultimate reality, identified with the divine intellect and essence from which all existence emanates and to which it ultimately returns.[5] (5) The supreme knowledge and consciousness, equated with the divine and seen as the source of the universe.[6]
From: Skanda Purana
(1) The deity who ultimately granted Vishvamitra his desired Brahmanical status after recognizing his penance.[7] (2) A reference to the creator god in Hindu mythology, highlighting his vital role in the divine hierarchy.[8] (3) The creator god in Hinduism, who appears in the text to reassure a grieving Brahmana about a boy's accidental birth.[9] (4) Refers to the supreme creator deity within the Hindu pantheon, whose grandeur is symbolically compared to sage Agastya.[10] (5) The creator deity who is stationed in the form of a boy at the excellent shrine.[11]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) The creator god who sprang from the primal lotus yet could not behold Narayana.[12] (2) The creator god in Hinduism, representing supreme consciousness and the source of the hymn that Yudhishthira seeks to recite.[13] (3) A reference to the creator god in Hinduism, implying that with his brothers, Karna would achieve divine stature.[14]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki
(1) The creator god in Hinduism who revered the Ramayana, indicating its divine inspiration and significance.[15] (2) The creator god, under whose power the weapon employed by Ravana was created.[16]
From: Vishnu Purana
(1) The first Vyasa who arranged the distribution of the Vedas during the initial Dvapara age.[17] (2) The deity who is said to have originally composed the Linga Purana and is involved in the discussions within the text.[18]
From: Padma Purana
(1) The creator god in Hindu mythology, known for his role in the cosmic cycle of creation, maintenance, and destruction.[19]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) The creator deity in Hindu mythology who is credited with expanding the initial teachings of the Devi Bhagavata into one hundred Koti shlokas.[20]
From: Brahmanda Purana
(1) The creator deity who presided over the sacrificial activities and became the Lord of the penance house.[21]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) Refers to the creator god in Hinduism who is said to have created some gods, indicating his supreme role in the divine hierarchy.[22] (2) The deity credited with directly creating all Manus, including Svayambhuva and the others mentioned.[23] (3) Referring to Brahma, the creator god in Hindu tradition, who honors the speech of a truthful witness.[24]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) The creator deity who recognizes Shri Mahadeva as a greater recipient of Bhagavan's mercy than Shri Prahlada.[25] (2) The creator god in Hindu mythology, who is also involved in the longing for the realm of Vaikuntha.[26]
From: Jarasandhavadha Mahakavyam
(1) The creator God in Hinduism, whose essence is implied to be invoked in the prayers of the forlorn Kings.[27]
From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)
(1) The deity who intervened in an imminent execution of a fallen warrior.[28]
From: Thirty minor Upanishads
(1) The ultimate source of knowledge and learning whom Narada seeks guidance from.[29]
From: Sushruta Samhita, Volume 6: Uttara-tantra
(1) The divine source of Ayurvedic knowledge as conferred upon humanity.[30]