Significance of Divine intervention
Divine intervention is a significant concept across various belief systems, including Buddhism, Jainism, and Vaishnavism, where it represents the active involvement of divine beings in human affairs. This can be seen in the examples of Bodhisattva's birth preparation and Krishna's interventions in urgent situations, such as restoring order in Dwarka or influencing outcomes in battles. The theme is prevalent in numerous narratives where deities assist, protect, and guide devotees, emphasizing a direct connection between the divine and the mortal realm.
Synonyms: Celestial intervention, Miraculous intervention, Providence, Miracle, Act of god, Blessing
In Dutch: Goddelijke interventie; In Finnish: Jumalallinen väliintulo; In Spanish: Intervención divina; In German: Göttliche Intervention; In Malay: Campur tangan ilahi; In Swedish: Gudomligt ingripande; In French: Intervention divine; In Italian: Intervento divino; In Portugese: Intervenção divina; In Polish: Boska interwencja; In German: Göttliches Eingreifen; In Dutch: Goddelijke tussenkomst
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 encompasses the participation of heavenly beings in Bodhisattvas' births, Sakka's influence on human behavior, miraculous healings by goddesses, and the guidance of divine beings in shaping mortal destinies.
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: Hualin International Journal of Buddhist Studies
(1) This is the action of deities, which is seen as a necessary factor for acquiring wealth, often as a result of good behavior.[4]
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.[5]
Hindu concept of 'Divine intervention'
Divine intervention in Hinduism encompasses the active participation of deities like Vishnu and Krishna in human affairs, guiding destinies, executing justice, and providing protection against evil, illustrating a profound connection between the mortal realm and the divine.
From: Vishnu Purana
(1) It is demonstrated when the priests are restored to life after Prahlada prays to Krishna, showcasing the power of faith and compassion in overcoming destruction and restoring life.[6] (2) The concept that deities like Krishna are sent to Earth to assist humanity and defeat evil.[7]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) Actions taken by Mahadeva to assist, protect, or guide his devotees.[8] (2) The involvement or guidance from deities in human affairs, especially during spiritual practices.[9] (3) Bhishma's use of celestial weapons against Arjuna suggests a theme of divine influence in the battles of mortals.[10]
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.[11] (2) The theme of seeking help from divine entities, like Brahma and Vishnu, in response to the troubles caused by Mahisha.[12] (3) The act of the Devi helping Indrani to navigate her struggles and ultimately restore her husband to power.[13] (4) The action taken by the cosmic goddess and the Devas to address the crisis following Vishnu's decapitation.[14] (5) The act of deities like Vishnu stepping in to resolve the issues faced by the Earth.[15]
From: Gautami Mahatmya
(1) The involvement of deities like Brahma and Shiva in mortal affairs, particularly concerning Gautama's intentions.[16]
From: Harivamsha Purana
(1) The act of gods descending to earth with the intent to rectify the issues concerning the burden of the earth.[17]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Shastri)
(1) The notion that the Gods sought help from higher powers, namely Vishnu and Maheshwara, to deal with their adversaries.[18]
From: Tiruvaymoli (Thiruvaimozhi): English translation
(1) The act of the divine being descending from above to provide assistance or rescue, as exemplified by the story of Gajendra.[19] (2) Divine intervention occurred when the Lord swiftly arrived to rescue the elephant from the crocodile, showcasing His timely and powerful assistance.[20] (3) Divine intervention was necessary to aid Prahlada when his own father turned hostile, manifesting as the Man-Lion.[21] (4) Divine intervention is demonstrated by the spontaneous grace of the Supreme Lord, which guides one towards God-love and reveals the soul's true nature.[22] (5) This is the act of a higher power in altering the course of events, often to provide assistance, guidance, or salvation to individuals.[23]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) Divine intervention is implied through the actions of protecting the cows, brahmanas, demigods, vedas, saintly devotees and religious principles.[24] (2) Divine intervention is demonstrated by the deliverance of the elephant, highlighting the deity's active involvement in resolving dire situations.[25] (3) The act of deities, like Lord Krishna, entering the earthly realm to influence events or create sacred items.[26] (4) The concept hinted by Lord Krishna's action of punching the demon, suggesting involvement of a higher power in the conflict.[27] (5) By fate; indicates the belief that certain events or circumstances are guided by a higher power.[28]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) Divine intervention is the perceived act of Goddess Candi, whom the thieves believed had saved them, leading them to express gratitude and embrace each other in relief.[29] (2) Seeking assistance or protection from a higher power in order to overcome a difficult or dangerous situation experienced by the speaker.[30] (3) The involvement of a higher power in human affairs, seen as necessary to bridge the gap in understanding and offer solace.[31] (4) The act of Krishna or the supreme spiritual power intervening in human affairs for protection or assistance.[32]
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.[33] (2) The involvement of divine figures such as Krishna in human affairs, particularly in executing justice.[34] (3) The idea that celestial beings influence and control the outcomes in the lives of the characters.[35]
From: Haribhakti-sudhodaya
(1) The act of God Vishnu directly protecting Prahlada from harm, exemplifying His care for His devotees.[36]
From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)
(1) Is the concept of gods or higher powers intervening in human affairs. This is seen when Shiva appears to rebuke Manasavega and protect Naravahanadatta.[37] (2) The action taken by Shiva, who helps the afflicted characters, indicating the significance of divine blessings in their fates.[38] (3) The moment when the god Vishnu intervenes to spare Damodara during the intense battle.[39] (4) References to divine beings or predictions that guide characters toward decisions or foretell future success.[40] (5) The occurrence of a dream sent by the god Shiva to Devasmita and Guhasena that serves as a test of fidelity and loyalty.[41]
From: Naishadha-charita of Shriharsha
(1) The perceived influence of gods and celestial beings in orchestrating events surrounding Damayanti's selection of a husband.[42] (2) The concept of gods actively influencing human affairs, exemplified by their reactions to Kali and his intentions.[43]
Jain concept of 'Divine intervention'
In Jainism, Divine intervention signifies how deities impact earthly events, exemplified by the moral choices made by characters like Ravana and Valin, illustrating the belief in divine influence over human actions and decisions.
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.[44]
The concept of Divine intervention in local and regional sources
Divine intervention embodies the belief that a higher power directly impacts human events, influencing outcomes in times of conflict, shaping moral superiority, and transforming dire circumstances, as illustrated in various epics like the Iliad and Ramayana.
From: Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints
(1) Divine intervention is shown when God responds to Draupadi's plea, despite the distance between Hastanapur and Dwarka, offering assistance and justice.[45] (2) This is the assistance provided by a divine being, who took the form of a grocer to ensure the devotees had the materials needed for cooking.[46] (3) Several instances in the text showcase divine intervention, where a higher power responds to the suffering or needs of devotees, such as providing aid or protection.[47] (4) A prayer was heard, leading to a miracle involving a stone bull, indicating divine intervention.[48] (5) Divine intervention is the act of God intervening, which led to the miraculous transformation of the impaling stake, highlighting the triumph of faith and devotion.[49]
From: Folklore of the Santal Parganas
(1) An act of a higher power that resulted in the transformation of a snake into a stream of money, ultimately rewarding a couple with wealth.[50]
From: Triveni Journal
(1) This concept refers to the involvement of supernatural beings in human affairs, particularly illustrated through the actions of gods in the Iliad and Ramayana.[51] (2) The involvement of a divine being to influence human affairs, often depicted in myths as a response to human suffering and injustice.[52] (3) The belief that a higher power plays a direct role in shaping events, particularly in saving nations from catastrophic influence.[53] (4) The reference to Britain's historical claims of moral superiority and the expectation of divine support in their governance.[54] (5) The belief that a higher power intervenes in human affairs, particularly in times of conflict.[55]
The concept of Divine intervention in scientific sources
Divine intervention signifies the assistance from a higher power, particularly in the context of prayer's effects, emphasizing the potential influence of spiritual involvement in human experiences and outcomes, as noted by regional sources.
From: Religions Journal (MDPI)
(1) Divine intervention is the action of a deity in the world, often portrayed as a decisive force in historical events or the unfolding of eschatological plans.[56] (2) Divine intervention is the supposed action of a deity in the world, and the conversion of Paul the Apostle is discussed as an example where motivation by divine grace, rather than personal deliberation, makes the act pro tanto worse.[57] (3) Belief in the existence of God or the presence of divine power naturally encourages Cordilleran Indigenous youth to experience life situations as divine interventions and personal revelations.[58]
From: Religious Inquiries (Journal)
(1) Divine intervention means acting occasionally and provisionally in the world in which the only organizer and ruler is natural law, implying believing in God’s activity against natural laws.[59] (2) This is how God’s Kingdom will come, whether through human works or a supernatural act, according to religions that see history as the medium of God's revelation.[60] (3) It makes sense to deny miracles that should be thought of as cases of this, as God is always present to his creatures as their sustainer and preserver.[61]
From: South African Family Practice
(1) It is the belief that a higher power will bring forth a positive outcome for offspring, even when they are committed to the streets.[62] (2) This involves the idea of assistance or involvement from a higher power, especially when evaluating the effects of prayer in the study.[63]
From: International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health (MDPI)
(1) Victims of IPV appeal to this.[64]
Classical concept of 'Divine intervention'
From: The History of Herodotus
(1) Divine intervention is sought through prayers to the gods and calls upon legendary figures like the sons of Aeacus, underscoring the belief in supernatural assistance.[65] (2) Divine intervention manifested in the form of thunderbolts, falling crags, and a battle-cry from the temple of Pronaia, which caused the Barbarians to flee in fear from Delphi.[66]
From: The Iliad of Homer (English translation)
(1) The actions of gods influencing events, protecting bodies from desecration, sending messages, and guiding mortals, demonstrating the pervasive presence and impact of the supernatural on the mortal world.[67] (2) The divine intervention is a recurring theme throughout the text, with gods and goddesses actively influencing the course of the battle, providing aid to their favored sides, and engaging in conflicts among themselves, highlighting the role of the supernatural in shaping mortal affairs.[68] (3) Divine intervention significantly shapes the course of the battle, with gods like Apollo and Zeus influencing events and outcomes, highlighting the belief in supernatural forces and their impact on mortal affairs, adding layers of complexity to the conflict.[69] (4) The involvement of gods like Minerva and Apollo, who influence the events of the war, demonstrating their power and the role of fate in the conflict.[70] (5) The direct involvement of deities in mortal affairs, influencing events, providing guidance, and shaping the outcomes of battles and conflicts.[71]
From: Aesop's Fables (English translation)
(1) Divine intervention is sought by the crow from Apollo and later Mercury when trapped in a snare, as the crow attempts to bargain for freedom through promises of offerings.[72] (2) Divine intervention is exemplified by the carter's initial reliance on Hercules for help, but the story suggests that it should only be sought after one has exerted their own effort.[73]
From: The Literature of the Ancient Egyptians
(1) A desperate search for assistance, reflecting a need for a higher power to alleviate the suffering and restore order.[74]
From: Legends Of The Gods
(1) Divine intervention is evident throughout the narrative, with gods like Thoth and Ra playing active roles in protecting and healing Horus, showcasing the importance of the divine realm.[75] (2) Divine intervention is necessary to manage the magical powers of the serpents and to protect those who possess words of power, demonstrating the gods' active involvement in the affairs of the world.[76]