Significance of Candi

Candi holds significant importance in various Hindu traditions, particularly in Vaishnavism and Shaktism. She is described as a powerful deity whose worship is vital for guidance and blessings. In the context of Purana, Candi embodies a goddess warrior, known for her combat abilities against the wicked and displaying strength with multiple arms. Additionally, the nine forms of Durga in Shaktism highlight her diverse attributes and powers, showcasing Candi's role as a protector and symbol of valor in Hindu mythology.1
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Synonyms: Temple, Shrine, Monument, Pagoda, Sanctuary, Place of worship, Candy, Confection, Sweet, Treat

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Buddhist concept of 'Candi'

Buddhism Books

In Buddhism, Candi represents Durga, a fierce goddess embodying female cosmic power (shakti). It signifies the assimilation of diverse elements, highlighting the goddess's potent, cultic nature within the Buddhist framework.

Significance in Buddhism (general):

From: Hualin International Journal of Buddhist Studies

(1) Candi is a name for Durga, meaning 'fierce' or 'violent', and is a cultic goddess, a potent devi, the embodiment of female primordial cosmic power, shakti, and represents the syncretic assimilation of broad-based heterogenous elements.[1]

Hindu concept of 'Candi'

Hinduism Books

Candi in Hinduism symbolizes a powerful goddess embodying courage, protection, and strength. She manifests through Durga's nine forms, engages in battles for justice, and demands sacrifices, serving as a significant deity for guidance and blessings.

Significance in Purana and Itihasa (epic history):
Purana Books

The Purana refers to Sanskrit literature preserving ancient India’s vast cultural history, including historical legends, religious ceremonies, various arts and sciences. The eighteen mahapuranas total over 400,000 shlokas (metrical couplets) and date to at least several centuries BCE.

Significance in Vaishnavism (Vaishava dharma):
Vaishnavism Books

From: Chaitanya Bhagavata

(1) The central figure of the devotional practice is Candi, a goddess whose worship involves the use of particular elements.[2] (2) Candi is an entity mentioned in the text, suggesting a will or power that influences events.[3] (3) Candi refers to a powerful deity in Hindu tradition, whose worship is essential for guidance and blessings.[4]

Vaishnava or vaishnavism (vaishnavism) represents a tradition of Hinduism worshipping Vishnu as the supreme Lord. Similar to the Shaktism and Shaivism traditions, Vaishnavism also developed as an individual movement, famous for its exposition of the dashavatara (‘ten avatars of Vishnu’).

Significance in Shaktism (Shakta philosophy):
Shaktism Books

Shakta or Shaktism (shaktism) represents a tradition of Hinduism where the Goddess (Devi) is revered and worshipped. Shakta literature includes a range of scriptures, including various Agamas and Tantras, although its roots may be traced back to the Vedas.

Significance in Kavya (poetry):
Kavya Books

From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)

(1) A powerful goddess to whom Viravara must sacrifice his son to preserve the life of King Shudraka.[5]

Kavya refers to Sanskrit poetry, a popular ancient Indian tradition of literature. There have been many Sanskrit poets over the ages, hailing from ancient India and beyond. This topic includes mahakavya, or ‘epic poetry’ and natya, or ‘dramatic poetry’.

Plural form: Candis.