Significance of Brilliance
Brilliance in various contexts signifies a radiant quality and exceptional attributes. In Jainism, it denotes the shining characteristics of celestial bodies like the sun and moon. Purana emphasizes brilliance as a divine attribute linked to power and intelligence. In Natyashastra, it refers to cleverness in conveying unexpected meanings and exceptional intellect. Dharmashastra connects brilliance to successful rituals, spiritual luminosity, and enlightenment. Additionally, in Indian history, brilliance signifies magnificence, exemplified by the Triveni. Overall, brilliance embodies qualities of light, intelligence, and divinity throughout these traditions.
Synonyms: Genius, Intelligence, Brightness, Radiance, Excellence, Luminosity, Clarity, Cleverness, Magnificence
In Dutch: Schittering; In German: Brillanz; In Finnish: Loisto; In Spanish: Brillantez
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Brilliance'
In Hinduism, Brilliance signifies enlightenment, divine attributes, and excellence in qualities like wealth and intelligence. It encompasses spiritual luminosity, clever interpretation, and radiant qualities desired in rituals, highlighting exceptional intellect and inherent divinity.
From: Bharadvaja-srauta-sutra
(1) A state of enlightenment or divine presence sought for by the officiants and addressed in prayers.[1] (2) A state or quality desired in the outcome of the rituals, indicating success and radiance.[2] (3) An attribute associated with the divine that is invoked through various formulas within the rituals, emblematic of attaining spiritual luminosity.[3]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) The quality of being bright and radiant, which applies to both the intrinsic nature of light and its effects on other objects.[4]
From: Brahmanda Purana
(1) Excellence or outstanding qualities, often referring to wealth, intelligence, or valor among descendants.[5]
From: Skanda Purana
(1) The quality of being exceptionally talented or intelligent, often referring to spiritual insight or knowledge.[6]
From: Gautami Mahatmya
(1) The radiant quality from which Manyu’s form was produced, emphasizing his power.[7]
From: Shiva Purana
(1) A quality attributed to Daksha and his children, suggesting a divinely inherent quality.[8]
From: Natyashastra (English)
(1) A technique that brings forth an unexpected meaning alongside well-known meanings through cleverness.[9]
From: Dasarupaka (critical study)
(1) A quality indicating brightness and exceptional intellect, included in Dhananjaya's established virtues.[10]
Jain concept of 'Brilliance'
In Jainism, Brilliance symbolizes the significant shining qualities of celestial bodies, particularly the sun and moon, emphasizing their importance and representing a spiritual illumination reflecting the pursuit of knowledge and enlightenment.
From: Tattvartha Sutra (with commentary)
(1) The shining quality of the sun and moon that indicates their importance among the celestial bodies.[11]
The concept of Brilliance in local and regional sources
Brilliance, in this context, signifies the impressive and magnificent qualities embodied by the Triveni, highlighting its exceptional attributes and the admiration it garners within certain regional narratives.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) The quality of being magnificent or impressive, which the Triveni embodies.[12]