Significance of Brahmana sage
In Vaishnavism and various Hindu texts, the term Brahmana sage denotes wise individuals recognized for their profound spiritual knowledge and contributions to the preservation of Vedic traditions. These sages, often from the priestly caste, play essential roles in providing counsel, performing rituals, and imparting wisdom on liberation and righteousness. Notable figures like Valmiki and Narada highlight the spiritual accomplishments associated with Brahmana sages, who are revered for their learning, ethical guidance, and dedication to spiritual practices within Hindu society.
Synonyms: Brahmin sage, Vedic sage, Spiritual teacher, Philosopher, Seer, Rishi, Guru, Spiritual guide, Vedic scholar, Learned brahmin
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Brahmana sage'
The Brahmana sage in Hinduism signifies learned and respected individuals, often from the priestly class, dedicated to preserving Vedic knowledge, performing rituals, and providing spiritual guidance within various narratives and contexts.
From: Bhagavata Purana
(1) The learned individuals who are gathered in the assembly to witness the sacrificial session and the subsequent conflict.[1] (2) A learned person or priest in the Vedic tradition, revered for their wisdom and knowledge of scriptures.[2] (3) Sages prominent in the tenth Manu, which include Havishman, Sukriti, Satya, Jaya, and Murti.[3] (4) A sage mentioned in the text who provides details about the Pumsavana vow to King Parikshit.[4] (5) Wise individuals who guided and consecrated Indra for the performance of the Horse-Sacrifice.[5]
From: Skanda Purana
(1) A member of the priestly class within Hindu society, often engaged in spiritual knowledge and practices; here specifically referring to Raikva.[6] (2) A wise ascetic and spiritual teacher known for their compliance with fruitful undertakings.[7] (3) Divine wise men surrounding Rama during his stay in the forest.[8] (4) A scholarly and spiritual ascetic who brought other pilgrimage sites to the mountain through his austere practices.[9] (5) A learned individual belonging to the priestly class, whose words were given due importance by Krishna, illustrating respect for wisdom and tradition.[10]
From: Padma Purana
(1) A reference to Agastya, emphasizing his status as a holy and knowledgeable figure.[11] (2) A learned individual from the priestly class, knowledgeable about rituals and Vedic texts.[12] (3) Referring to a learned individual, particularly Manki, contributing to the spiritual traditions through dedication to Vedic studies.[13] (4) A revered sage or learned person in Hindu society, often respected for their knowledge and wisdom.[14] (5) Refers to Dadhici, an excellent and intelligent sage who sacrifices his life for the gods to create powerful weapons to defeat demons.[15]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) Arvavasu, who is identified as a learned and austere practitioner of Brahmanical penances.[16] (2) A term used by Indra to refer to Yavakri, suggesting a high status among religious practitioners.[17] (3) Wise individuals characterized by their great purity and knowledge, who also wait upon and worship Yama in the assembly house.[18] (4) A sage or individual who has attained a high spiritual status in society, often focused on knowledge and righteousness.[19] (5) A learned and ascetic practitioner of the Vedas, characterized by their spiritual knowledge and strict moral conduct.[20]
From: Brahmanda Purana
(1) Uttanka, who implored the king not to abandon his duty of protecting people from Dhundhu.[21] (2) Learned individuals who perform rituals and recite mantras, instrumental in the practice of offerings to the Pitris.[22]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) Sages belonging to the Brahmana class.[23] (2) A learned and wise individual from the priestly caste in Hindu society, often engaged in spiritual practices and knowledge.[24]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) The wise and knowledgeable individuals of Brahmaloka who impart wisdom about liberation.[25]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) Respected and wise scholars in Hindu texts who were engaged in deciding the need for a substitute rule.[26]