Significance of Divine power
Synonyms: Heavenly power, Supernatural power, Celestial power, Sacred power, Spiritual power, Supernatural might, Heavenly authority
In Dutch: Goddelijke kracht; In Finnish: Jumalallinen voima; In Spanish: Poder divino; In Portugese: Poder divino; In German: Göttliche Kraft; In Malay: Kuasa ilahi; In Swedish: Gudomlig kraft; In French: Pouvoir divin; In Italian: Potere divino; In Polish: Boska moc
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'
In Buddhism, "Divine power" encompasses the extraordinary abilities of enlightened beings like Buddhas and Bodhisattvas. This includes miraculous acts, influence over the natural and supernatural realms, dispensing blessings, and aiding sentient beings through compassion and wisdom, ultimately stemming from true understanding.
From: Mahayana Mahaparinirvana Sutra
(1) "Divine powers" are what a rishi was endowed with, but lost them when he gained an evil state of mind as he was about to breathe his last.[1] (2) The rishi was endowed with these, and the king saw him and told his attendants to kill the rishi, according to the text.[2] (3) The inherent ability of the Great Nirvana Sutra to bring forth enlightenment and purify defilements, regardless of a person's past actions.[3] (4) The extraordinary abilities attributed to the Buddha, enabling him to interact with the natural and supernatural realms.[4] (5) A force attributed to the Buddha that allows him to perform extraordinary actions, illustrating his teachings and the nature of compassion.[5]
From: Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva fundamental vow sutra
(1) These are the abilities that Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva has attained, and that enable him to manifest in various forms and deliver countless beings, resulting from guidance from many Buddhas.[6] (2) The miraculous and extraordinary abilities attributed to enlightened beings like the Buddha and Bodhisattvas.[7] (3) The extraordinary ability possessed by deities and Bodhisattvas to provide protection and blessings.[8] (4) A reference to the extraordinary abilities of Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva, which are deemed unthinkable and unimaginable.[9] (5) The extraordinary abilities and merits gained by a Bodhisattva through their compassionate actions.[10]
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.[11] (2) Extraordinary capacities attributed to bodhisattvas and Buddhas to influence and assist sentient beings.[12] (3) The extraordinary abilities attributed to the Buddha and bodhisattvas that allow them to help sentient beings across the cosmos.[13] (4) Inconceivable abilities bestowed upon Kshitigarbha Bodhisattva by the Buddha, enabling him to carry out his compassionate mission.[14]
From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) Supernatural abilities attributed to beings like the Master and other characters in the stories.[15] (2) The extraordinary ability of the tree-sprite to both manifest in the physical world and relocate the treasure to the brahmin's home.[16] (3) The supernatural ability of Sakka to transform and interact with the wolf, representing the influence of higher wisdom over earthly follies.[17] (4) The ability of the river-spirit, which she gains through the merit given by the Bodhisatta, allowing her to protect his wealth.[18] (5) The extraordinary ability exhibited by a tree-sprite to aid the lizard by revealing the fate of her offspring and the partridge.[19]
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.[20]
From: Milindapanha (questions of King Milinda)
(1) The venerable Assagutta used his power of hearing to hear the words of king Milinda.[21]
From: Apadana commentary (Atthakatha)
(1) Sakka transformed himself into a young man and made room by means of his divine power, reciting praise in front of the Dasabala.[22] (2) The higher spiritual abilities that arise from true understanding and realization of the dhamma.[23] (3) The influence that allowed Sopaka to be born healthy, despite the unusual circumstances of his birth.[24]
From: Hualin International Journal of Buddhist Studies
(1) This refers to extraordinary abilities or influence attributed to deities or spiritual figures, often involving supernatural or miraculous phenomena.[25] (2) This is the power of the statue that comes from the bond of obligations that is established between the statue and its people, according to Wei-ping Lin.[26]
From: The Fo-Sho-Hing-Tsan-King (A Life of Buddha)
(1) The ability to perform miraculous acts that are beyond ordinary human capability.[27]
Hindu concept of 'Divine power'
In Hinduism, Divine power encompasses multifaceted abilities. It refers to the supreme Brahman's attributes, supernatural feats of deities like Krishna and Rama, spiritual forces, and inherent qualities enabling creation and influence. It's also about blessings, energies, and the potential for humans to share in divine attributes through spiritual realization.
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) The attainment of divine powers is associated with Ishitwam, where the yogi experiences a blaze of light and achieves universal dominion through the practice of yoga.[28] (2) The bel fruit symbolizes the human and divine soul, housing the powers of evolution.[29] (3) The creative energies and abilities that belong to a higher spiritual entity, illustrated as active and re-absorptive forces in the text.[30] (4) A spiritual force that possesses the capability to influence or determine truths and realities.[31] (5) The attributes associated with a divine being, often misrepresented in physical forms.[32]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Shastri)
(1) The abilities possessed by Sage Gautama enabling him to perceive the situation concerning Ahalya's restoration.[33] (2) A reference to supernatural strength and abilities attributed to celestial beings or gods.[34] (3) The exceptional spiritual strength that Somada wishes her future son to possess, attributing it to worship of God and dharma.[35] (4) A force beyond the ordinary, suggesting a significant influence or protection over Rama.[36] (5) Refers to the supernatural abilities possessed by characters like Sage Agastya.[37]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) The magical and supernatural abilities displayed by the Danava in the battle.[38] (2) Supernatural abilities possessed by deities like Indra and the Ashvins, often influencing the outcome of events.[39] (3) The extraordinary capacity attributed to Shambhu, enabling him to restore life to those who were slain in battle.[40]
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.[41] (2) The inherent, supernatural ability of the Holy One to create and oversee the universe.[42]
From: Bhagavadgita
(1) The extraordinary ability of the deity to perform acts beyond human capabilities.[43] (2) The supreme and all-pervading force that governs the universe and existence, associated with the ability to create and sustain life.[44]
From: Garuda Purana
(1) The various energies or aspects of deities recognized during rituals, emphasizing their influence in the universe.[45] (2) Special abilities attributed to deities, showcasing their influence in the spiritual realm.[46]
From: Bhagavad-gita Mahatmya
(1) This is a reference to Kamala (Lakshmi), who is worshipped and is believed to give the fruit of all desires, emphasizing her importance.[47] (2) Supernatural abilities attributed to the verses of the Gita that the brahmana recites.[48]
From: Bhagavad-gita-mahatmya
(1) The abilities possessed by Siddha-Samadhi, allowing him to perform miraculous acts like reviving King Brahadrathi.[49]
From: Markandeya Purana
(1) The inherent supernatural abilities or strength possessed by the goddesses, originating from Ambika.[50]
From: Gautami Mahatmya
(1) The superhuman capabilities that characterize Somanatha, inclusive of overlordship.[51]
From: Sri Krishna-Chaitanya
(1) The Power of the Supreme Lord wears a twofold aspect and serves Him in apparently opposite ways; there is the spiritual and deluding aspects.[52] (2) This refers to the force or capacity of the Godhead, which is not separate from the possessor and is realized as the divine feminine aspect, embodying energy and potency.[53] (3) The various energies of Godhead that achieve their purposes in the material world and provide the qualities of existence.[54] (4) The powers associated with different manifestations of the Divinity, which help facilitate the realization of devotion.[55] (5) The inherent ability of the Lord to manifest extraordinary and awe-inspiring phenomena, recognized through the eyes of His devotees.[56]
From: Haribhakti-sudhodaya
(1) The spiritual energy that allows one to achieve enlightenment and inspire others in devotion.[57] (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.[58]
From: Prem Sagar (English translation)
(1) The extraordinary abilities exhibited by Shri Krishna, such as defeating adversaries and providing protection.[59] (2) The supernatural abilities that are questioned during the narrative, particularly regarding Indra's efficacy compared to nature.[60]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) The confidential and internal power of the Supreme Personality of Godhead that can be realized through meditation.[61]
From: Chaitanya Mangala
(1) The innate abilities of Lord Gaura that allow Him to induce transformation and compassion in others.[62]
From: Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu
(1) The extraordinary strength and authority that Krishna possesses, which is vividly displayed through His universal form.[63]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) Shri Krishna's ability to hold Govardhana Hill signifies this quality and his strength.[64]
From: Brahma Sutras (Shankaracharya)
(1) This power is described in the text as arranging the whole world, and it is represented as three-colored, with its products being fire, water, and earth, each having a distinct colour.[65] (2) Abilities attributed to beings, but in the case of the highest Brahman, are questioned due to the absence of bodily organs.[66]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad Bhashya Vartika
(1) Refers to special abilities or qualities, such as animan, that are associated with the divine or spiritual essence.[67]
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.[68]
From: Mandukya Upanishad
(1) The belief that a higher, spiritual force is responsible for the creation of all phenomena.[69]
From: Brahma Sutras (Ramanuja)
(1) The various capabilities attributed to the supreme being, including omniscience, omnipresence, and omnipotence.[70]
From: Mandukya Upanishad (Gaudapa Karika and Shankara Bhashya)
(1) "Divine power" is mentioned as a possible origin of creation, but the provided information goes on to refute this and other similar cosmological theories.[71]
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.[72] (2) The inherent abilities attributed to King Vikramaditya that create a protective aura around him.[73] (3) The supernatural strength attributed to the kings of the Vidyadharas, revealing their awareness of Naravahanadatta's destiny.[74] (4) An attribute ascribed to Lohajangha by Vibhishana after hearing of Lohajangha's journey.[75] (5) The supernatural ability that Matali uses to discern the events surrounding King Sahasranika and Mrigavati.[76]
From: Shakti and Shakta
(1) Divine Power, also referred to as Daivi Shakti, manifests in a sound body and is represented by a Mantra, with the chief Mantra being Om, which represents the sound of the first general movement of Divine Power towards the manifestation of the Universe.[77] (2) This is the full-grown form of the Boy-Shiva, a form of Consciousness which is strengthened by the Sadhaka, which is the ultimate goal.[78] (3) The inherent force or energy associated with divinity, integral to the practices and beliefs in ritual worship.[79] (4) The belief in Shakti, which is distinguished from the Divine Essences (Svarupa), often imagined for worship, typically in female form.[80]
From: Hiranyakesi-grihya-sutra
(1) The sacred energy or force that is sought to return to oneself, associated with life, prosperity, and revitalization.[81]
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.[82]
From: Asvalayana-grihya-sutra
(1) The spiritual force or essence that is sought to return to the individual through sacrificial actions and invocations.[83]
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.[84]
From: International Research Journal of Ayurveda and Yoga
(1) Iswarapranidhana means dedication to this or to surrender oneself to the Supreme power.[85]
Jain concept of 'Divine power'
In Jainism, Divine power encompasses exceptional abilities like miracles performed by enlightened beings and Vidyadharas. It signifies a higher spiritual realm, with supernatural authority enabling divine intervention, as seen in miraculous rescues.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) Abilities attributed to the Lords, suggesting a higher spiritual realm and capabilities unknown to others.[86] (2) The extraordinary abilities possessed by Anantavirya and the other Vidyadharas, enabling them to perform miracles.[87] (3) The supernatural authority that allows divine beings to perform miracles, such as saving the Brahman's son from the fire.[88]
The concept of Divine power in local and regional sources
Divine power, according to regional sources, encompasses various interpretations. It is a transformative energy, spiritual authority, and the extraordinary abilities of deities. It is also the ultimate creative force, innate human capabilities, and the omnipotent energy that affects change and guides individuals towards enlightenment.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) A belief that Krishnamurti claims leads to losing sight of realities and inventing engines of exploitation in the name of religion.[89] (2) The divine power is the one that set the goals for the photon-being, sending it out into the world of mortals for salvation, as described within the text.[90] (3) This is the same as supreme intelligence, which can be tapped into to achieve satisfaction of our desires and fulfillment of our aspirations.[91] (4) The unique and extraordinary strength attributed to the divine, as depicted through various natural phenomena.[92] (5) The creative and controlling force attributed to deity figures, as discussed in the Vedic context.[93]
From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda
(1) The divine power acts through an Acharya, and the body in which one becomes an Acharya is very different from that of any other man.[94] (2) The unseen force operating behind Shri Ramakrishna, a figure born to a humble background, whose influence has spread across continents and continues to gain followers in various regions.[95]
From: The travels of Fa-Hian (400 A.D.)
(1) The higher spiritual force that Fa-Hian attributed his safe passage through dangers to.[96] (2) The spiritual influence attributed to Buddha, enabling him to enact significant changes and perform miraculous acts.[97]
From: Buddhist records of the Western world (Xuanzang)
(1) Maitreya Bodhisattva exhibits divine power from time to time in a mysterious manner, adding to its enigmatic nature.[98]
The concept of Divine power in scientific sources
Divine power, as defined by regional sources, centers on the belief in a supreme deity. This deity oversees every life stage, offering guidance and blessings. Rituals serve as a means of connecting with this divine power.
From: Religions Journal (MDPI)
(1) It is transferred from a body to another substance, as exemplified by the relics of the True Cross, where the sanctity of the saint's body overflows its boundaries.[99] (2) The strength and influence of deities are emphasized, as 'divine power' was believed to ensure the safe return of ships to Japan.[100] (3) The idea of a "divine power" refers to the influence and actions of the gods in shaping events and outcomes within the Iliad, highlighting their role in assisting heroes and intervening in human affairs.[101] (4) Divine power is central to the discussion of miracles, as it is through this power that obediential potency is actualized, allowing creatures to be transformed beyond their natural capacities.[102] (5) Divine powers are summoned by ancient Meppat Tantrics and traditional kalari masters, cultivating yogic abilities and engaging in practices to invite female divine powers into their bodies, as part of rituals aimed at empowerment.[103]
From: Religious Inquiries (Journal)
(1) In the story of Moses, not only is the victory of God’s power and will splendidly depicted but also the weakness of anything other than Him is effectively illustrated.[104] (2) One who thinks that sins are committed without the divine power also lies about God, and God will place them in hell.[105]
Classical concept of 'Divine power'
From: Ancient Egypt the Light of the World
(1) The issuing forth from Amenta on the day of the resurrection is described in the opening chapter of the Ritual as the coming to the divine powers attached to Osiris.[106] (2) This cry of 'come' is repeated by each of the four 'living creatures,' who are the same in the mount that the divine powers, Amsta, Hapi, Tuamutef, and Kabhsenuf, were in the resurrection from Amenta.[107] (3) The supernatural force that, according to some beliefs, intervenes in human affairs and is associated with miraculous events.[108] (4) Are mastered by possessing knowledge and magical words, which serve as a lamp of light and a compass, guiding one's way and preventing one from becoming prey.[109] (5) In the Hymn to Osiris the ancestral spirits are likewise discriminated from the or gods.[110]
From: Egyptian Magic
(1) The Egyptians believed that the divine powers frequently made known their will to them by means of dreams, and they attached considerable importance to them.[111] (2) Describes the ability gained through a book containing formulæ of a magical nature.[112] (3) A power worshiped through religious ceremonies and practices, along with devotion to religious magic, which earned the Egyptians a reputation for being both religious and superstitious.[113]
From: Popular Literature in Ancient Egypt
(1) Divine power is demonstrated through spells and magic, enabling characters to bewitch heaven and earth, see hidden things, and manipulate reality.[114]
From: Legends Of The Gods
(1) The divine power is exhibited by the Majesty of this god through commands, decrees, and the delegation of responsibilities, emphasizing the god's supreme authority.[115]
From: Development of Religion and Thought in Ancient Egypt
(1) Refers to the spiritual forces and entities that were conceived and fashioned by ancient man's understanding of the world.[116]
From: The Book of the Dead
(1) Divine power is given to the deceased, enabling them to bring into subjection the ka’s of the gods and other ka’s, demonstrating a transformation into a being of immense authority.[117]
From: The History of Herodotus
(1) A force seen in earthly things, exemplified by the coincidence of the rumour's arrival with the timing of the battles at Plataia and Mycale.[118] (2) An influence that caused the king to be infatuated and led him to offer the sunlight as wages to the departing farm-servants.[119] (3) An influence that the Argives believed caused Cleomenes to go mad and have an evil end, although the Spartans attributed it to his drinking habits with the Scythians.[120] (4) It is cited as the cause of destruction. It is mentioned in the context of the Athenian army's losses, offering an alternative explanation to enemy action.[121] (5) A force believed to cause the utter destruction of the Trojans to demonstrate that great wrongs are met with great chastisements from the gods.[122]
From: The Liturgy of Funerary Offerings
(1) The essence believed to be contained within the wines, which was intended to be transmitted to the deceased.[123]
From: The Odyssey of Homer (English translation)
(1) Divine power is alluded to through Jove and other gods, influencing events and inspiring reverence, emphasizing the role of fate and intervention.[124]