Significance of Divine protection
Divine protection in Hinduism encompasses various interpretations and practices related to seeking shelter from higher powers through prayers and rituals. It includes the safeguarding provided by deities like Vishnu, Krishna, and Shiva, ensuring the safety and well-being of their devotees in times of crisis. Notable examples involve the protection of Prahlada from harm, Krishna lifting the Govardhana hill to shield Dvaraka, and the spiritual support promised to those who perform penance. Overall, divine protection symbolizes divine intervention and grace in safeguarding adherents from adversity.
Synonyms: Sacred shield, Divine intervention, Holy protection
In Dutch: Goddelijke bescherming; In Finnish: Jumalallinen suoja; In Spanish: Protección divina; In German: Göttlicher Schutz; In Malay: Perlindungan Ilahi; In Swedish: Gudomligt skydd; In French: Protection divine; In Portugese: Proteção divina; In Italian: Protezione divina; In Polish: Boska ochrona
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 protection'
Divine protection in Buddhism encompasses the safeguarding from misfortunes by divine beings, the protective watch over Bodhisattvas during gestation, and the defensive support from spiritual figures sought through prayers and devotion.
From: Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva fundamental vow sutra
(1) The safeguarding provided by divine beings, including the power of Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva and other deities, against misfortune and calamity.[1] (2) The safeguarding provided by spiritual figures against harm, which is commonly sought through prayers and devotion.[2]
From: Mahavastu (great story)
(1) The watchful guard provided by deities over the Bodhisattva during his time in the womb, ensuring his safety and virtue.[3]
Hindu concept of 'Divine protection'
Divine protection in Hinduism encompasses safeguarding by deities like Krishna and Vishnu, reflecting interventions that ensure safety, support devotees in crises, and exemplify miraculous grace through faith, primarily in times of peril.
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) Divine protection was sought by Draupadi through prayer, leading Surya to command a Rakshasa to safeguard her as she went to Kicaka's abode.[4] (2) A belief that Krishna’s guidance and support will ensure victory for the Pandavas.[5]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Shastri)
(1) A central theme in the benedictions and blessings foreseen by Queen Kaushalya for Rama.[6] (2) The assistance Shunashepha seeks from Vishvamitra, emphasizing his vulnerable state in the absence of familial support.[7]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) The blessings and safeguards called upon by Manorama for Sudarshana as he faces potential threats at the Svayamvara.[8]
From: Vishnu Purana
(1) The concept that Prahlada's faith in Vishnu provides him with miraculous protection from harm and death, demonstrating the power of divine grace in his life.[9]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) Divine protection is what the devotees are asking of Krishna, as they are frightened and are directing their prayers to the deity.[10] (2) A safeguard provided to a devotee, preventing anyone from opposing, harming, torturing, or oppressing them; atheists have no authority to transgress against the protected individual.[11] (3) The act of seeking safety and shelter under the guidance of a higher power, specifically addressed to Lord Krishna in this context.[12] (4) The concept of being safeguarded or cared for by a higher power, especially in times of crisis.[13]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) Divine protection pertains to the safeguarding provided by Shri Krishna, exemplified by His shielding of His devotees, particularly in the context of Shri Parikshit's mother's pregnancy.[14] (2) Safeguarding offered by the Supreme Lord that prevents adverse experiences or thoughts from affecting an individual’s spiritual journey.[15]
From: Tiruvaymoli (Thiruvaimozhi): English translation
(1) The divine protection extended by the Lord is not caused by the consent of the Individual to submit himself, but by His own benevolent act of redemptive grace.[16] (2) The safeguarding provided by the Lord at Tirumokur to those who seek His refuge.[17]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) the act of safeguarding and defending someone, as requested in the context of the text[18]
From: Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu
(1) The safeguarding and support provided by the Supreme Personality of Godhead to His devotees.[19]
From: Haribhakti-sudhodaya
(1) The safeguarding given to Prahlada by God Vishnu amidst various attempts on his life by his father.[20]
From: Bharadvaja-srauta-sutra
(1) The heavenly safeguard attributed to deities such as Agni and Indra, ensuring the successful outcome of the sacrifices and rituals performed.[21] (2) A spiritual safeguard offered during rituals, associated with deities such as Brihaspati and Maruts.[22]
From: Satapatha-brahmana
(1) Seeking shelter or safeguard from the gods, typically through prayers or rituals.[23]
From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)
(1) A recurring theme in the story, emphasizing the various ways that divine entities assist Suryaprabha in his endeavors.[24]
The concept of Divine protection in local and regional sources
Divine protection is illustrated through examples like Hari's gift of raiment to Draupadi, showcasing the support and care devotees receive during hardship.
From: Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints
(1) The passage illustrates divine protection through various examples, such as Hari giving raiment to Draupadi, highlighting the support and care provided to devotees in times of distress.[25]
From: Triveni Journal
(1) This concept plays a role in the play, particularly in guiding characters through perilous situations and ensuring their safety.[26]
The concept of Divine protection in scientific sources
Divine protection, as exemplified by Mehen, is a personified barrier safeguarding vulnerable beings. Mehen embodies the concept of divine protection, acting as a shield.
From: Religions Journal (MDPI)
(1) Divine protection refers to the belief that a higher power offers safety and security, and through the promise of divine protection, believers are formed to be like Christ and set apart for religious worship and church service.[27] (2) Divine protection refers to the intervention of Buddhist deities, ensuring the safe voyages of Japanese pilgrim monks and reinforcing the authority of their dharma lineages through miraculous accounts.[28] (3) Divine protection is what the entire family is placed under, with blessings encompassing longevity, health, wealth, and prosperity, after the ancestors have accepted the offerings.[29] (4) Mehen is a personification of divine protection, representing a protective barrier for vulnerable beings.[30]
From: Religious Inquiries (Journal)
(1) The shadow of the Throne symbolizes this, guiding and supporting humanity, while also alluding to the comfort and bliss experienced in Paradise.[31]
Classical concept of 'Divine protection'
From: Ancient Egypt the Light of the World
(1) Apt is portrayed as kindler of the light for the deceased in the dark of death and is called Apt, the 'mistress of divine protections,' according to the provided block of text.[32] (2) The images of the stand on which the gods were elevated were buried with the mummy as emblems of divine protection.[33] (3) Divine protections are from Apt, the mistress, for the soul, and she who had been the kindler of the lights in the darkness of night.[34] (4) Apt, the old first Mother-earth, survives in the eschatology of the Ritual, still keeping her hippopotamus form, as 'the Mistress of divine protections' and rekindler of the light of life.[35]
From: Egyptian Magic
(1) The document states that after the appropriate words had been recited over both hands divine protection was assured them.[36]
From: Egypt Through The Stereoscope
(1) The presence of rams in the sculptures along the Theban avenues expresses divine protection, symbolizing Amon's safeguarding of the king.[37]
From: The Book of Gates
(1) Let his divine protection be under my legs, and let them live, Strengthen thou Osiris, son of the Sun, lord of diadems, SETI MER-EN-PTAH, with thy hand.[38]
From: The Iliad of Homer (English translation)
(1) The safeguard that prevents Agenor's spear from piercing Achilles, as the gods gift stayed it, protecting him from harm.[39]