Significance of Divine intervention
Divine intervention is a significant concept across various philosophies and religious beliefs. In Buddhism, it involves the roles of heavenly beings in a Bodhisattva’s birth, while Jainism explores how gods affect moral decisions. Texts like Arthashastra and Vaishnavism illustrate divine actions, such as Krishna's support in battles and protection of devotees. In Purana, divine figures assist humanity and respond to prayers, influencing human affairs. Overall, divine intervention signifies the active participation of deities in guiding and protecting mortals throughout their lives.
Synonyms: Godly intervention, Divine assistance, Providence, Miracle, Act of god
In Dutch: Goddelijke interventie; In Finnish: Jumalallinen väliintulo; In Spanish: Intervención divina
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Divine intervention'
Divine intervention in Buddhism involves heavenly beings shaping Bodhisattvas' births, miraculous healings, and guiding mortal destinies. It emphasizes the connection between divine influence and karmic outcomes, particularly illustrated by Sakka's interactions with humans.
From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) The influence of divine beings, such as Sakka, on the lives of mortals, directing their fates toward certain outcomes.[1] (2) The miraculous act attributed to a goddess which healed the young man and restored his parents' sight.[2] (3) The act of Sakka, King of Devas, coming down to influence the behavior of his son Illisa, showcasing the link between actions and karmic consequences.[3]
From: The Fo-Sho-Hing-Tsan-King (A Life of Buddha)
(1) The active role played by heavenly beings that prepared the circumstances for Bodhisattva's birth.[4]
Hindu concept of 'Divine intervention'
Divine intervention in Hinduism signifies the active involvement of deities, like Vishnu and Shiva, in human affairs, guiding destinies, providing assistance, and restoring balance, exemplified through miraculous events and support during critical moments for devotees.
From: Skanda Purana
(1) A theme present in the story, illustrated by the unembodied voice that provides guidance and solutions to the king.[5] (2) The concept of deities assisting humans in their rituals and spiritual endeavors, guiding towards redemption.[6] (3) The direct involvement of higher divine forces and beings guiding and assisting the Suras in times of perilous conflict.[7] (4) The actions taken by Vishnu and Balarama to protect Durvasa and combat the demons, providing support against their aggression.[8] (5) The act of the goddess Gauri bestowing blessings upon the Brahmana families, permitting Sumedha to unite in marriage with Samavati.[9]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) The moment when Vishnu decides to take action against the formidable threat posed by the mother of Shukra to restore balance by using his powers.[10] (2) The theme of seeking help from divine entities, like Brahma and Vishnu, in response to the troubles caused by Mahisha.[11] (3) The act of the Devi helping Indrani to navigate her struggles and ultimately restore her husband to power.[12] (4) The action taken by the cosmic goddess and the Devas to address the crisis following Vishnu's decapitation.[13] (5) The act of deities like Vishnu stepping in to resolve the issues faced by the Earth.[14]
From: Shiva Purana
(1) Shiva's role in controlling and guiding the essences of Prakriti by grace.[15] (2) Supernatural involvement in earthly matters, often to aid devotees.[16] (3) The action taken by gods, including lord Shiva and Brahma, to resolve the chaos surrounding Kama's death.[17] (4) Refers to the actions taken by Lord Shiva to correct past mistakes and restore balance, especially concerning Daksha.[18] (5) Refers to the action taken by the three deities to bestow boons and offer assistance in the face of challenges during Atri's penance.[19]
From: Bhagavata Purana
(1) The involvement or influence of a deity in mortal affairs, often seen as a guiding or rescuing force.[20] (2) The act of the Lord, exemplified through his various actions in the battle to save the world.[21] (3) A supernatural occurrence where a voice from heaven advises Dushyanta to accept and raise his son Bharata, emphasizing parental responsibilities.[22] (4) The concept of gods taking direct action in human affairs, exemplified by the sun-god's blessing.[23]
From: Padma Purana
(1) The moment when Parvati urges Shiva to take action to protect his sons and attendants in battle.[24] (2) The act of gods, especially Brahma, stepping in to resolve the plight of the chaste lady and her husband.[25] (3) The active participation of gods like Vishnu or Brahma in mortal affairs to guide destinies.[26]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) Actions taken by Mahadeva to assist, protect, or guide his devotees.[27] (2) The involvement or guidance from deities in human affairs, especially during spiritual practices.[28] (3) Bhishma's use of celestial weapons against Arjuna suggests a theme of divine influence in the battles of mortals.[29]
From: Linga Purana
(1) Actions taken by deities such as Vishnu to maintain balance during crises.[30] (2) Referring to the actions of Vishnu in both blessing Padmavati and deceiving the sages regarding their appearances.[31]
From: Agni Purana
(1) A concept indicating that through worship and rituals, the goddess influences the natural order, responding to the needs of her devotees.[32] (2) The assistance sought from deities through repeated invocations and rituals.[33]
From: Lalitopakhyana (Lalita Mahatmya)
(1) The concept of supernatural influence, exemplified by goddess Lalita’s protective measures and guidance given to her followers.[34] (2) The actions taken by higher divine powers to alter the course of events for the Devas' benefit.[35]
From: Markandeya Purana (Study)
(1) Divine intervention indicates the acts of the goddess in guiding and protecting her devotees through her manifestations.[36]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki
(1) The notion that the Gods sought help from higher powers, namely Vishnu and Maheshwara, to deal with their adversaries.[37]
From: Brahmanda Purana
(1) Instances in which deities like Mahadeva actively partake in human affairs, leading to consequences for both celestial and mortal beings.[38]
From: Harivamsha Purana
(1) The act of gods descending to earth with the intent to rectify the issues concerning the burden of the earth.[39]
From: Gautami Mahatmya
(1) The involvement of deities like Brahma and Shiva in mortal affairs, particularly concerning Gautama's intentions.[40]
From: Vishnu Purana
(1) The concept that deities like Krishna are sent to Earth to assist humanity and defeat evil.[41]
From: Vishnu Purana (Taylor)
(1) The concept that actions by deities can influence and shape the lives and destinies of characters.[42]
From: Tiruvaymoli (Thiruvaimozhi): English translation
(1) Concept emphasizing the Lord’s involvement and support in critical moments, crucial for the ultimate victory against evil.[43] (2) The assistance sought from the Almighty Lord to help the Alvar overcome his sinful inclinations and elevate his spiritual state.[44] (3) The act of the Lord reclaiming souls from worldly entanglements and guiding them towards salvation.[45] (4) The concept that the Lord plays an active role in bestowing abilities upon the Alvar.[46] (5) The act of the Lord helping His devotees by removing obstacles and granting spiritual favors.[47]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) The act of deities, like Lord Krishna, entering the earthly realm to influence events or create sacred items.[48] (2) The concept hinted by Lord Krishna's action of punching the demon, suggesting involvement of a higher power in the conflict.[49] (3) By fate; indicates the belief that certain events or circumstances are guided by a higher power.[50] (4) The act of a deity, in this case, Krishna, actively responding to the plight of a devotee, emphasizing the connection between the divine and the mortal.[51] (5) The theme of the narrative where Lord Krishna demonstrates His power in response to Rukmi's attack.[52]
From: Prem Sagar (English translation)
(1) The actions taken by Shri Krishna in response to the distress of the people of Dwarka, restoring order and alleviating their suffering.[53] (2) The involvement of divine figures such as Krishna in human affairs, particularly in executing justice.[54] (3) The idea that celestial beings influence and control the outcomes in the lives of the characters.[55]
From: Haribhakti-sudhodaya
(1) The act of God Vishnu directly protecting Prahlada from harm, exemplifying His care for His devotees.[56]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) The act of Krishna or the supreme spiritual power intervening in human affairs for protection or assistance.[57]
From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)
(1) The action taken by Shiva, who helps the afflicted characters, indicating the significance of divine blessings in their fates.[58] (2) The moment when the god Vishnu intervenes to spare Damodara during the intense battle.[59] (3) References to divine beings or predictions that guide characters toward decisions or foretell future success.[60] (4) The occurrence of a dream sent by the god Shiva to Devasmita and Guhasena that serves as a test of fidelity and loyalty.[61] (5) The act of the goddess Candi reviving Kamalakara, Anangamanjari, and Manivarman, freeing them from their passionate afflictions.[62]
From: Naishadha-charita of Shriharsha
(1) The perceived influence of gods and celestial beings in orchestrating events surrounding Damayanti's selection of a husband.[63] (2) The concept of gods actively influencing human affairs, exemplified by their reactions to Kali and his intentions.[64]
From: Jarasandhavadha Mahakavyam
(1) The moments in the epic where divine beings influence the course of events.[65]
From: Dasarupaka (critical study)
(1) Refers to the influence of more powerful divine figures like Krishna and Mahesha on the events of the narrative, helping gods over demons.[66] (2) The involvement of gods and supernatural beings within the story, often influencing the course of events.[67]
From: Bhagavatpadabhyudaya by Lakshmana Suri (study)
(1) The act of divine entities, particularly the Asvins, coming to aid Shankara through supernatural means to alleviate his suffering.[68]
From: Shishupala-vadha (Study)
(1) The theme exemplified by Shrikrishna's actions in punishing Shishupala, symbolizing the moral justice practiced by divine figures.[69]
Jain concept of 'Divine intervention'
In Jainism, Divine intervention involves gods influencing human affairs, evident in the moral choices made by figures like Ravana and Valin, demonstrating the interplay between divine will and ethical actions in the mortal realm.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) The act of gods influencing events in the mortal realm, showcased through Ravana's and Valin's moral decisions.[70]
The concept of Divine intervention in local and regional sources
Divine intervention encompasses the active role of deities in human life, influencing events, answering prayers, aiding struggles, and shaping fates, as illustrated by examples like Bodhla's assistance and Krishna's involvement with Nama.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) The belief that a higher power intervenes in human affairs, particularly in times of conflict.[71] (2) The active participation of gods and goddesses in human affairs, affecting outcomes of events, as seen in numerous epics.[72] (3) The hope that God Karuppanna might somehow intervene to improve their dire situation.[73] (4) The perceived influence of gods or goddesses in human affairs, particularly in Sambu Iyer’s fate.[74]
From: Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints
(1) The act of God providing answers to the prayers or wishes of His devotees as expressed in the text.[75] (2) Krishna's direct involvement in the lives of his devotees, particularly seen through the rebuilding of Nama’s hut.[76] (3) The concept depicted in the text where divine beings manifest to assist Bodhla during his struggle.[77]