Significance of Extraordinary

The term Extraordinary encompasses various interpretations across different philosophical perspectives. In Jainism, it denotes actions beyond the usual during certain gunasthanas, while Vaishnavism describes it as something remarkable, particularly highlighting the exceptional qualities of Krishna and Parabrahman. Purana reflects on extraordinary occurrences in mystical battlefields, and Mahayana characterizes it by incredible events, such as miraculous transformations from discarded food. Overall, Extraordinary captures the essence of remarkable and notable phenomena across these traditions.1
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Synonyms: Remarkable, Outstanding, Unusual, Incredible, Unique, Significant, Noteworthy, Amazing, Marvelous, Astounding

In Dutch: Uitzonderlijk; In Finnish: Poikkeuksellinen; In Spanish: Extraordinario; In German: Außergewöhnlich

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Buddhist concept of 'Extraordinary'

Buddhism Books

In Buddhism, "Extraordinary" signifies actions of a brahmacarin that are remarkable and uncommon, as well as the miraculous events resulting from discarded food in water, highlighting the extraordinary nature of these occurrences.

Significance in Mahayana (major branch of Buddhism):
Mahayana Books

From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra

(1) A descriptor for the incredible and miraculous events that unfolded from the food discarded into the water.[1] (2) Something remarkable or out of the ordinary; used to describe the brahmacarin's actions as notable for their uncommon nature.[2]

Mahayana is a major branch of Buddhism focusing on the path of a Bodhisattva (spiritual aspirants/ enlightened beings). Extant literature is vast and primarely composed in the Sanskrit language. There are many sutras of which some of the earliest are the various Prajnaparamita sutras.

Hindu concept of 'Extraordinary'

Hinduism Books

In Hinduism, "Extraordinary" signifies the exceptional qualities of Parabrahman and Krishna, highlighting remarkable features and unusual phenomena, especially on the battlefield, contributing to a mystical and unique essence within the faith.

Significance in Vaishnavism (Vaishava dharma):
Vaishnavism Books

From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)

(1) apurvam refers to something remarkable or exceptional[3] (2) Signifying something remarkable or exceptional in nature.[4] (3) Describes the unique and remarkable nature of the entirely effulgent form of Parabrahman.[5]

From: Garga Samhita (English)

(1) This term signifies something remarkable or exceptional; in this context, it describes the notable features of Krishna.[6]

Vaishnava or vaishnavism (vaishnavism) represents a tradition of Hinduism worshipping Vishnu as the supreme Lord. Similar to the Shaktism and Shaivism traditions, Vaishnavism also developed as an individual movement, famous for its exposition of the dashavatara (‘ten avatars of Vishnu’).

Significance in Purana and Itihasa (epic history):
Purana Books

From: Mahabharata (English)

(1) A term illustrating the unusual and remarkable occurrences on the battlefield, enhancing its mystical atmosphere.[7]

The Purana refers to Sanskrit literature preserving ancient India’s vast cultural history, including historical legends, religious ceremonies, various arts and sciences. The eighteen mahapuranas total over 400,000 shlokas (metrical couplets) and date to at least several centuries BCE.

Jain concept of 'Extraordinary'

Jainism Books

In Jainism, "Extraordinary" signifies actions beyond the usual, particularly during specific gunasthanas, and is characterized by the term ananyasamanya, highlighting spiritual experiences and actions that transcend the ordinary.

Significance in Jainism (general):

From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra

(1) Referring to something that is beyond the ordinary or usual, denoted by the term ananyasamanya.[8] (2) Refers to the specific extraordinary actions performed during certain gunasthanas.[9]

Jainism is an Indian religion of Dharma whose doctrine revolves around harmlessness (ahimsa) towards every living being. The two major branches (Digambara and Svetambara) of Jainism stimulate self-control (or, shramana, ‘self-reliance’) and spiritual development through a path of peace for the soul to progess to the ultimate goal.

The concept of Extraordinary in local and regional sources

History Books

The keyphrase "Extraordinary" reflects the remarkable changes in the ordinary life brought about by the virtuous actions and existence of the Holy Mother, emphasizing the profound impact of her influence.

Significance in India history and geography:

From: Triveni Journal

(1) The transformation of the ordinary through the virtuous actions and life of the Holy Mother.[10]