Significance of Divine power
Synonyms: Sacred authority, Spiritual might, Heavenly power, Supreme power, Heavenly might, Divine authority, Supernatural power.
In Dutch: Goddelijke kracht; In Finnish: Jumalallinen voima; In Spanish: Poder divino
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 power'
Divine power in Buddhism encompasses the supernatural abilities of gods and enlightened beings, facilitating enlightenment, protection, and miraculous actions that aid sentient beings, demonstrating higher wisdom and compassion through extraordinary feats and interventions in human lives.
From: Buddhacarita
(1) The supernatural assistance provided by gods to facilitate the Crown Prince's departure from his royal life towards a quest for enlightenment.[1] (2) Extraordinary abilities exhibited by the Buddha, which he used to influence beings and demonstrate the Right Law.[2] (3) The extraordinary abilities of the Buddha to manifest his presence and teachings in powerful ways.[3] (4) Supernatural abilities possessed by enlightened beings, enabling them to perform extraordinary feats.[4] (5) The extraordinary abilities displayed by the Buddha which left the king awed and eventually led him to embrace the Law.[5]
From: Mahayana Mahaparinirvana Sutra
(1) The inherent ability of the Great Nirvana Sutra to bring forth enlightenment and purify defilements, regardless of a person's past actions.[6] (2) The extraordinary abilities attributed to the Buddha, enabling him to interact with the natural and supernatural realms.[7] (3) A force attributed to the Buddha that allows him to perform extraordinary actions, illustrating his teachings and the nature of compassion.[8] (4) Extraordinary abilities attributed to the Tathagata, showcasing his mastery over the physical and spiritual realms.[9] (5) The miraculous ability of the Buddha to transform situations and dispense blessings beyond ordinary capabilities.[10]
From: Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva fundamental vow sutra
(1) The miraculous and extraordinary abilities attributed to enlightened beings like the Buddha and Bodhisattvas.[11] (2) The extraordinary ability possessed by deities and Bodhisattvas to provide protection and blessings.[12] (3) A reference to the extraordinary abilities of Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva, which are deemed unthinkable and unimaginable.[13] (4) The extraordinary abilities and merits gained by a Bodhisattva through their compassionate actions.[14] (5) The extraordinary abilities attributed to Bodhisattvas and enlightened beings which they use to aid sentient beings.[15]
From: Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva (Sutra of the Great Vow)
(1) The spiritual capability bestowed on Kshitigarbha by the Buddha, allowing him to articulate the names and fates of sinners.[16] (2) Extraordinary capacities attributed to bodhisattvas and Buddhas to influence and assist sentient beings.[17] (3) The extraordinary abilities attributed to the Buddha and bodhisattvas that allow them to help sentient beings across the cosmos.[18] (4) Inconceivable abilities bestowed upon Kshitigarbha Bodhisattva by the Buddha, enabling him to carry out his compassionate mission.[19]
From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) Supernatural abilities attributed to beings like the Master and other characters in the stories.[20] (2) The extraordinary ability of the tree-sprite to both manifest in the physical world and relocate the treasure to the brahmin's home.[21] (3) The supernatural ability, attributed to divine beings like Sakka, demonstrated in assisting Mahajanaka during his trials.[22] (4) Supernatural abilities attributed to beings such as Sakka and Narada, who assist Mahajanaka in his journey.[23] (5) The supernatural ability of Sakka to transform and interact with the wolf, representing the influence of higher wisdom over earthly follies.[24]
From: Maha Buddhavamsa—The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) The extraordinary abilities attributed to celestial beings, allowing them to manipulate their environment, as demonstrated during the mourning of the Buddha.[25]
From: Apadana commentary (Atthakatha)
(1) The higher spiritual abilities that arise from true understanding and realization of the dhamma.[26] (2) The influence that allowed Sopaka to be born healthy, despite the unusual circumstances of his birth.[27]
From: The Fo-Sho-Hing-Tsan-King (A Life of Buddha)
(1) The ability to perform miraculous acts that are beyond ordinary human capability.[28]
Hindu concept of 'Divine power'
Divine power in Hinduism encompasses the extraordinary capabilities of deities, the protective strength of figures like Ambavrddha, and the spiritual essence allowing creation and influence over reality, highlighting unique abilities from Parabrahman to individual divinities.
From: Skanda Purana
(1) Supernatural abilities said to be granted or enhanced through the blessings of Ganga.[29] (2) Powers that Viraka is said to possess, comparable to those of Ishvara.[30] (3) The strength and authority held by the deities, specifically associated with Ambavrddha and her ability to protect.[31] (4) The miraculous force attributed to Svapneshvara, enabling it to grant wishes and alleviate suffering.[32] (5) The mystical force referred to as Vidya, specifically mentioned as Shoshani.[33]
From: Padma Purana
(1) The various energies and manifestations that serve and delight the supreme being, exemplified by the eight Shaktis.[34] (2) The supernatural strength attributed to gods, particularly Shiva, in exercising authority and enforcing actions.[35] (3) The various capacities and attributes of the goddess Lakshmi, which are significant to Vishnu.[36] (4) The supernatural capabilities attributed to deities that illustrate their supreme nature and control over the universe.[37] (5) The abilities and qualities attributed to the highest form of divinity, representative of ultimate reality.[38]
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) The bel fruit symbolizes the human and divine soul, housing the powers of evolution.[39] (2) The creative energies and abilities that belong to a higher spiritual entity, illustrated as active and re-absorptive forces in the text.[40] (3) A spiritual force that possesses the capability to influence or determine truths and realities.[41] (4) The attributes associated with a divine being, often misrepresented in physical forms.[42] (5) The inherent transformative energy associated with the divine, extending through all existence and effecting change.[43]
From: Bhagavata Purana
(1) Refers to the extraordinary abilities and influence of Krishna.[44] (2) This refers to the omnipotent force associated with the Supreme Lord that enables the creation and manipulation of existence.[45] (3) The omnipresence and omnipotence of the Lord that a devoted individual may share after attaining spiritual realization.[46] (4) The inherent ability by which the divine being creates and sustains all existence.[47] (5) The innate potency of Krishna that renders him both a human child and the Supreme Lord, causing bewilderment to his mother.[48]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki
(1) The abilities possessed by Sage Gautama enabling him to perceive the situation concerning Ahalya's restoration.[49] (2) A reference to supernatural strength and abilities attributed to celestial beings or gods.[50] (3) The exceptional spiritual strength that Somada wishes her future son to possess, attributing it to worship of God and dharma.[51] (4) A force beyond the ordinary, suggesting a significant influence or protection over Rama.[52] (5) Refers to the supernatural abilities possessed by characters like Sage Agastya.[53]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) The magical and supernatural abilities displayed by the Danava in the battle.[54] (2) Supernatural abilities possessed by deities like Indra and the Ashvins, often influencing the outcome of events.[55] (3) The extraordinary capacity attributed to Shambhu, enabling him to restore life to those who were slain in battle.[56]
From: Bhagavadgita
(1) The extraordinary ability of the deity to perform acts beyond human capabilities.[57] (2) The supreme and all-pervading force that governs the universe and existence, associated with the ability to create and sustain life.[58]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) Supernatural abilities attributed to deities that reflect their status and capabilities, which, despite their strength, still require individual action to manifest effectively.[59] (2) The inherent, supernatural ability of the Holy One to create and oversee the universe.[60]
From: Garuda Purana
(1) The various energies or aspects of deities recognized during rituals, emphasizing their influence in the universe.[61] (2) Special abilities attributed to deities, showcasing their influence in the spiritual realm.[62]
From: Bhagavad-gita-mahatmya
(1) The abilities possessed by Siddha-Samadhi, allowing him to perform miraculous acts like reviving King Brahadrathi.[63]
From: Markandeya Purana (Study)
(1) Divine power encompasses the inherent energy of the goddess that creates, maintains, and influences all aspects of existence.[64]
From: Agni Purana
(1) The profound forces exerted by Lord Vishnu that lead to the transformation of the universe, including the creation of seven Suns.[65]
From: Markandeya Purana
(1) The inherent supernatural abilities or strength possessed by the goddesses, originating from Ambika.[66]
From: Bhagavad-gita Mahatmya
(1) Supernatural abilities attributed to the verses of the Gita that the brahmana recites.[67]
From: Brahma Purana
(1) The elevated spiritual strength or abilities attained through the successful practice of Yoga.[68]
From: Shiva Purana
(1) The supernatural ability that Jalandhara possesses, making him a formidable ruler.[69]
From: Gautami Mahatmya
(1) The superhuman capabilities that characterize Somanatha, inclusive of overlordship.[70]
From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)
(1) Refers to the forces that impact the lives of mortals, such as love and fate, illustrated through the actions of Madanavega and the gods.[71] (2) The inherent abilities attributed to King Vikramaditya that create a protective aura around him.[72] (3) The supernatural strength attributed to the kings of the Vidyadharas, revealing their awareness of Naravahanadatta's destiny.[73] (4) An attribute ascribed to Lohajangha by Vibhishana after hearing of Lohajangha's journey.[74] (5) The supernatural ability that Matali uses to discern the events surrounding King Sahasranika and Mrigavati.[75]
From: Dvisahasri of Tembesvami (Summary and Study)
(1) The believed ability of places like Garudeshvara to fulfill the desires of devotees.[76] (2) The supernatural ability possessed by the Holy Master, which allows him to see and rescue the Brahmin-ghost.[77] (3) The spiritual energy that the Holy Master possesses, allowing Him to perform extraordinary feats and reveal His true nature.[78] (4) The inherent ability of a divine being to create and manipulate the world through three inherent qualities.[79] (5) The innate power attributed to Lord Dattatreya to create and sustain the universe.[80]
From: Jarasandhavadha Mahakavyam
(1) The essential strength believed to be required to defeat Krishna, as implied by Shishupala.[81]
From: Sri Krishna-Chaitanya
(1) The various energies of Godhead that achieve their purposes in the material world and provide the qualities of existence.[82] (2) The powers associated with different manifestations of the Divinity, which help facilitate the realization of devotion.[83] (3) The inherent ability of the Lord to manifest extraordinary and awe-inspiring phenomena, recognized through the eyes of His devotees.[84] (4) The supreme force governing reality, attributed to God in theistic beliefs against materialistic views.[85] (5) The higher spiritual authority and energy that governs the cosmos and divine interactions with souls.[86]
From: Haribhakti-sudhodaya
(1) The spiritual energy that allows one to achieve enlightenment and inspire others in devotion.[87] (2) The strength and authority granted by God Vishnu, which Prahlada acknowledges as the true source of power instead of relying on his father's might.[88]
From: Prem Sagar (English translation)
(1) The extraordinary abilities exhibited by Shri Krishna, such as defeating adversaries and providing protection.[89] (2) The supernatural abilities that are questioned during the narrative, particularly regarding Indra's efficacy compared to nature.[90]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) The confidential and internal power of the Supreme Personality of Godhead that can be realized through meditation.[91]
From: Chaitanya Mangala
(1) The innate abilities of Lord Gaura that allow Him to induce transformation and compassion in others.[92]
From: Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu
(1) The extraordinary strength and authority that Krishna possesses, which is vividly displayed through His universal form.[93]
From: Prasthanatrayi Swaminarayan Bhashyam (Study)
(1) Divine powers refer to the inherent qualities of Parabrahman that enable it to transcend the ordinary nature of existence, manifesting in both human and divine forms.[94] (2) The abilities and majesty granted to the mukta by Parabrahman, familiarizing them with boundless quality but still acknowledging the supreme nature of Parabrahman.[95] (3) The yogic abilities of Parabrahman that allow Him to be all-pervading, even while possessing a specific form.[96] (4) Refers to the capability of Parabrahman associated with maya, which plays a significant role in creation.[97]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad Bhashya Vartika
(1) Refers to special abilities or qualities, such as animan, that are associated with the divine or spiritual essence.[98]
From: Mundaka Upanishad (Madhva commentary)
(1) Refers to Anisha, the Lord's will or power which deludes the Jiva, preventing it from realizing the true nature of the self.[99]
From: Mandukya Upanishad
(1) The belief that a higher, spiritual force is responsible for the creation of all phenomena.[100]
From: Brahma Sutras (Ramanuja)
(1) The various capabilities attributed to the supreme being, including omniscience, omnipresence, and omnipotence.[101]
From: Hiranyakesi-grihya-sutra
(1) The sacred energy or force that is sought to return to oneself, associated with life, prosperity, and revitalization.[102]
From: Paraskara-grihya-sutra
(1) The supernatural abilities attributed to Indra, which are invoked in the context of the Ashtaka celebrations, particularly for overcoming hostile forces.[103]
From: Asvalayana-grihya-sutra
(1) The spiritual force or essence that is sought to return to the individual through sacrificial actions and invocations.[104]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) In this context, divine power refers to the ability of Prajapati to produce the Brahmana and other castes from his own body.[105]
From: Shakti and Shakta
(1) The inherent force or energy associated with divinity, integral to the practices and beliefs in ritual worship.[106] (2) The belief in Shakti, which is distinguished from the Divine Essences (Svarupa), often imagined for worship, typically in female form.[107]
From: Varahi Tantra (English Study)
(1) The spiritual energy present in the state of rest from which the Supreme Goddess manifests, symbolizing purity and bliss.[108]
From: Gitartha Samgraha (critical Study)
(1) Mahamaya describes the divine power that operates at a level of pure order.[109] (2) The ability of God to bind beings through maya, and the necessity of divine grace for liberation from bondage.[110]
From: Hanuman Nataka (critical study)
(1) The special power bestowed upon Rama, making him the eldest son of Dasharatha.[111]
From: Sahitya-kaumudi by Baladeva Vidyabhushana
(1) The supernatural force attributed to the deity, allowing significant feats such as marrying numerous women simultaneously.[112]
Jain concept of 'Divine power'
In Jainism, Divine power encompasses the extraordinary capabilities of the Lords, enabling miraculous acts like saving lives, as well as the unique abilities of Anantavirya and other divine beings, signifying a higher spiritual realm.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) Abilities attributed to the Lords, suggesting a higher spiritual realm and capabilities unknown to others.[113] (2) The extraordinary abilities possessed by Anantavirya and the other Vidyadharas, enabling them to perform miracles.[114] (3) The supernatural authority that allows divine beings to perform miracles, such as saving the Brahman's son from the fire.[115]
The concept of Divine power in local and regional sources
Divine power encompasses transformative energy linked to love and spirituality, influencing creation and human actions, as seen in figures like Krishna and Buddha, guiding individuals toward enlightenment and reflecting an internal connection to the divine.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) The active force of the divine that influences creation and can be embodied by man's dynamic actions.[116] (2) The concept in Indian religion of God as a force of law and creative principle, distinct from anthropomorphic representations.[117] (3) The notion that godliness resides within individuals, emphasizing the internal connection to God rather than seeking it externally.[118] (4) The innate strength and capabilities within each human being, as understood in spiritual philosophies.[119] (5) An omnipotent force that some people believe governs the universe, which is contested by scientific reasoning.[120]
From: Impact of Vedic Culture on Society
(1) Spiritual authority and legitimacy bestowed upon a king through rituals like Rajasuya sacrifice.[121]
From: Lord Jhulelal: An Analytical Study
(1) The spiritual strength and influence attributed to Lord Jhulelal that guides his followers towards enlightenment.[122]
From: The travels of Fa-Hian (400 A.D.)
(1) The higher spiritual force that Fa-Hian attributed his safe passage through dangers to.[123] (2) The spiritual influence attributed to Buddha, enabling him to enact significant changes and perform miraculous acts.[124]
The concept of Divine power in scientific sources
Divine power relates to the belief in a guiding higher deity influencing all life stages, offering blessings and direction through rituals, highlighting the importance of spirituality in personal development and life events.
From: Ancient Science of Life
(1) The belief in a higher deity that presides over each stage of a person's life, guiding and blessing through rituals.[125]