Significance of Crown prince
The term crown prince encompasses various definitions across different texts and traditions. In Jainism, it refers to heirs of kings such as Sumitravijaya and Vishakhabhuti, indicating their roles as successors. Similarly, in South Asian contexts, a crown prince is seen as the designated successor to the throne, often carrying unique expectations and responsibilities. In Mahayana, figures like the Bodhi-sattva and Shakyamuni are recognized as crown princes with significant potential for leadership. The term highlights the importance of royal lineage and the qualities expected of future rulers.
Synonyms: Heir apparent, Successor, Prince regent, Future king
In Dutch: Kroonprins; In Finnish: Kruununprinssi; In Spanish: Príncipe heredero
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Crown prince'
In Buddhism, the term "Crown Prince" encompasses various significant figures like the Buddha and Mahapaduma. It symbolizes royal heritage, future leadership, and the quest for enlightenment amidst worldly attachments and responsibilities.
From: Buddhacarita
(1) The Buddha, as the son of the king, who had traveled significantly and was returning to his homeland.[1] (2) The title referring to the Bodhisattva during his time in the worldly realm, highlighting his royal background.[2] (3) The son of the king who took leave from his royal preceptor and chief minister, and is depicted as a figure with profound virtues and an impressive appearance.[3] (4) The son of King Shuddhodana, who is on a quest for deliverance and experiences deep grief over his father's suffering.[4] (5) The individual who is loved by the world and regarded as the life of the people in the whole world, whose absence causes great sorrow.[5]
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) The title given to the heir apparent to the throne, specifically the son of King Shuddhodana.[6] (2) Kumarabhuta, representing the quality of a prime disciple or a prominent figure in the Dharma lineage.[7] (3) The title held by the Bodhisattva Shakyamuni in a previous lifetime, indicating his position as the heir to the throne of a great kingdom.[8] (4) The heir who was placed on the throne by King Sutosoma upon his return to his native land.[9] (5) The title given to the chosen successor in a royal dynasty, which, similar to the prediction given by Buddhas, ensures the continuity of leadership.[10]
From: Bodhisattvacharyavatara
(1) A royal heir who is expected to become king, symbolizing respect and honor associated with future leadership and authority.[11]
From: Vimalakirti Nirdesa Sutra
(1) A title used to refer to Manjusri in the context, suggesting his royal status and importance.[12]
From: Maha Buddhavamsa—The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) The official title of Prince Maha Paduma as the sole heir to the throne after the passing of his mother.[13] (2) The title held by Prince Suddhodana before his consecration as king.[14]
From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) The title that may have been held by Rahula if he were to become the heir in a worldly life.[15]
From: Abhidhamma in Daily Life (by Ashin Janakabhivamsa)
(1) Mahapaduma, the son of King Brahmadata, who faced trials due to false accusations by the chief queen.[16]
Hindu concept of 'Crown prince'
In Hinduism, the term "Crown Prince" designates the heir to the throne, exemplified by figures like Harishcandra and Naravahanadatta, who embody leadership qualities, royal lineage, and responsibilities associated with future governance.
From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)
(1) The title promised to whoever marries Kanakarekha, the daughter of King Paropakarin.[17] (2) The main character, Naravahanadatta, is referred to as the Crown Prince, indicating his royal status and expectation of marrying his beloved.[18] (3) The title given to Suryaprabha by his father, King Candraprabha, indicating his future sovereignty.[19] (4) The title held by Jivahara, who is a potential throne successor, facing the reality of many predecessors who did not attain kingship.[20] (5) The title given to Taravaloka after being appointed by his father, Candravaloka, indicating he is heir to the throne.[21]
From: Skanda Purana
(1) The title given to the deity who is decided to have supremacy over the others, representing leadership among the divine.[22] (2) Tondaman was installed as crown-prince for three years, highlighting his role as the heir to the throne.[23]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) The title awarded to Gangeya after king Shantanu's joyous reunion with him, marking the survival of the royal lineage.[24]
From: Lalitopakhyana (Lalita Mahatmya)
(1) Vishukra, the royal heir known for his great strength, who led the army into battle.[25]
From: Gautami Mahatmya
(1) The title held by the eldest son of a king, in this case referring to Naga, who would rule after his father's departure.[26]
From: Garuda Purana
(1) The title Dasharatha attempted to bestow upon Rama before his exile.[27]
From: Nitiprakasika (Critical Analysis)
(1) The heir apparent to the throne, positioned at the top of the military pay structure.[28] (2) The heir apparent to the throne, also excluded from the regular surveillance of officials.[29]
From: Shukra Niti by Shukracharya
(1) The heir apparent to the throne who is chosen based on various factors including character and capability to govern.[30]
From: Natyashastra (English)
(1) The title for a crown-prince is 'sire' (svamin).[31]
From: Sahitya-kaumudi by Baladeva Vidyabhushana
(1) The heir to the throne, specifically mentioning the king's son in the context of Vraja.[32]
Jain concept of 'Crown prince'
In Jainism, "Crown prince" signifies the designated heir to royal authority, often embodying leadership qualities expected of ascetics, as seen in figures like Balashri and Abhici, while also indicating unique responsibilities and participation in critical events.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) Refers to the son of Jarasandha, actively participating in the battle against Krishna's forces.[33] (2) A title indicating the next in line for leadership, often with unique responsibilities and expectations.[34] (3) The title held by Abhici, indicating he is the heir apparent to King Udayana's throne.[35] (4) The title held by Vishakhabhuti, indicating his position as the heir to the throne.[36] (5) The title held by King Jitashatru's younger brother, Sumitravijaya, indicating his position as the heir to the throne.[37]
From: Uttaradhyayana Sutra
(1) Balashri, designated heir to the throne, anticipated to become a leader among ascetics.[38]
The concept of Crown prince in local and regional sources
The term "Crown prince" signifies the heir to the throne, essential for succession after a king's death, and typically involves assisting the reigning monarch with administrative responsibilities.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) A title given to Vijayavarma as a kind of 'punishment' suggesting he must embrace his royal duties and responsibilities.[39] (2) The title given to the cowherd boy after he is recognized by the king as the heir to the throne.[40]
From: Impact of Vedic Culture on Society
(1) The designated heir to the throne who assists the king and is often involved in administrative duties.[41]
From: Village Folk-tales of Ceylon (Sri Lanka), vol. 1-3
(1) The heir to the throne, whose absence necessitated finding a new king upon the old king's death.[42]