Significance of Brahmarakshasa
Brahmarakshasa refers to a range of demonic beings and spirits in various South Asian traditions, particularly associated with wrongful actions resulting in a cursed existence. They can be invoked through incantations, manifest as wrathful ghosts, or be transformed individuals engaged in immoral deeds. These beings often disrupt sacred rites and are manifestations of sinful actions, with their nature reflecting a fall from piety. Brahmarakshasas symbolize the consequences of former misdeeds and serve as reminders of the moral and spiritual challenges faced by individuals.
Synonyms: Demon, Ghost, Spirit, Phantom
In Dutch: Brahmarakshasa; In Finnish: Brahmarakshasa; In Spanish: Brahmarakshasa
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Brahmarakshasa'
Brahmarakshasa in Hinduism signifies malevolent beings emerging from sinful actions, particularly those of Brahmins. These spirits, often linked to immoral behavior, obstruct sacred rites and represent the consequences of transgressions against righteousness.
From: Skanda Purana
(1) A type of demon or evil spirit born from a Brahmana, highlighting the complexity of good and evil in mythological stories.[1] (2) A more powerful category of spirits than Pishacas, mentioned in the conversation between Pushan and the Pishaca.[2] (3) A powerful type of Pishaca that is mentioned in the conversation between the Brahmana and the Pishaca, indicating a hierarchy among spirit beings.[3] (4) A supernatural being overwhelmed by hunger and thirst, typically seen as a malevolent force but capable of redemption through contact with holy figures.[4] (5) A fearsome spirit that King Viduratha became in one of his births, known for its despicable appearance and diet.[5]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) A class of Rakshasas known for obstructing sacrifices and potentially causing destruction.[6] (2) A type of spirit formed due to sinful behavior, who sought relief from their condition.[7] (3) Individuals who have fallen to a lower state due to misbehavior regarding sacred duties.[8]
From: Brahma Purana
(1) A term used for those who confuse sin for virtue and stray from the righteous path.[9] (2) A type of Rakshasa that highlights the transformation of a person who has fallen from piety due to previous misdeeds.[10]
From: Agni Purana
(1) A spirit representing the consequences of sinful actions by a brahmin after death.[11]
From: Bhagavad-gita-mahatmya
(1) Ghosts that Bhavasharma and his wife turned into after their deaths, representing a form of suffering and wandering due to their sinful prior lives.[12]
From: Lalitopakhyana (Lalita Mahatmya)
(1) Demoniac beings believed to have originated from Brahmanas due to sinful actions.[13]
From: Brahmanda Purana
(1) Entities considered dangerous to sacred rites, which did not disturb the sacrosanct environment of the sacrifice.[14]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) An entity born from the severe transgressions of taking property from a Brahmana, often associated with low spirits in desolate places.[15] (2) This term identifies individuals who have engaged in immoral actions such as associating with outcasts or stealing, resulting in their transformation into malevolent beings known as Brahmarakshasas.[16] (3) A type of ghost or spirit that emerges from someone who has been misled by greed, particularly after accepting gifts from a king.[17]
From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)
(1) A magical being named Yogeshvara who befriends Yaugandharayana and assists him by altering his appearance.[18] (2) A friend of Yaugandharayana, named Yogeshvara, whom the minister tasks with observing Kalingasena for signs of infidelity.[19] (3) A cursed form that Harisoma and Devasoma evolve into after committing sin, illustrating the consequences of their actions.[20]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) A term for a brahmana who engages in demoniac activities, particularly in relation to his attitude towards Vaishnavas.[21]
From: Parama Samhita (English translation)
(1) Evil spirits believed to be manifestations of Brahmins, harming those who indulge in inappropriate conduct during pilgrimages.[22]
The concept of Brahmarakshasa in local and regional sources
Brahmarakshasa is a demon summoned by landowners through incantation, necessitating work from them to prevent harm. This relationship highlights the demon's role in local folklore and societal interactions regarding land and labor.
From: Village Folk-tales of Ceylon (Sri Lanka), vol. 1-3
(1) A demon that a landowner summoned using an incantation, who required work to not harm him.[23]