Significance of Extraordinary powers
Extraordinary power in various philosophical and cultural contexts describes exceptional abilities that distinguish individuals or beings from the ordinary. In Jainism, it refers to celestial attributes and high spiritual statuses among beings. Vaishnavism highlights divine abilities linked to the Lord, influenced by devotees. In Purana, it encompasses the remarkable strengths of deities and demons, emphasizing spiritual merit. Dharmashastra associates it with royal capabilities due to divine connections, while Mahayana notes it in exceptional meditative skills. In Indian history, it pertains to miraculous abilities of figures like Tulsidas and the influential power of Vishnu's name.
Synonyms: Exceptional strength, Prodigious strength, Remarkable strength, Immense power
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 powers'
Extraordinary power in Buddhism signifies exceptional abilities such as those exhibited by Arada Kalama, highlighting advanced meditative skills and the potential of individuals to achieve remarkable insights through profound practice.
From: The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) Special abilities attributed to Upavana due to his past as a guardian spirit and experiences across multiple realms, setting him apart even among arahats.[1]
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) The exceptional ability that was noted in Arada Kalama, demonstrating a high level of meditative skill.[2]
Hindu concept of 'Extraordinary powers'
Extraordinary power in Hinduism encompasses divine abilities of entities like Yoganidra and Shukracarya's mother, exceptional skills from austerities, and spiritual knowledge, distinguishing them and bestowing unique strength beyond ordinary human capabilities.
From: The Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) The unique abilities possessed by the inhabitants of Plakshadvipa.[3] (2) The Siddhis or supernatural abilities that can be attained through intense meditation and worship.[4] (3) The remarkable abilities of Shukracarya's mother, evidenced by her successful overpowering of the Devas using her tapas strength.[5] (4) The might gained by Ravana through severe austerities, allowing him to conquer the three worlds.[6] (5) Refers to the perceived divine abilities of the goddess Yoganidra, distinguishing her as a powerful and enigmatic entity.[7]
From: The Skanda Purana
(1) Refers to the remarkable spiritual energy Dighika possesses, linked to her chastity and fidelity.[8] (2) The unique spiritual influence and merit associated with the holy place of Kashi, as highlighted in the sage's conclusions.[9]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki
(1) Indicates Rama's unique and divine strength displayed in the battle against Ravana.[10] (2) Refers to the incredible strength that the demons displayed during the confrontation.[11]
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) Unusual abilities that are sometimes attained through spiritual knowledge and practice, as questioned by Rama.[12] (2) Refers to the unique and remarkable ability of Vishnu to exhibit delusion, as experienced by Gadhi after his return.[13]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) The exceptional abilities and virtues of Brahmanas that distinguish them from ordinary individuals.[14]
From: The Markandeya Purana (Study)
(1) The remarkable abilities attributed to Pativrata wives, often demonstrated through supernatural occurrences.[15]
From: Bhagavad-gita Mahatmya
(1) A unique ability attributed to the brahmana, showcasing potential abilities resulting from divine blessings.[16]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) Exceptional abilities that set a person apart, often perceived as supernatural or divine in nature.[17] (2) The divine abilities that the Lord possesses, which can be affected by a devotee's service.[18]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) The unique ability of Bhagavan that goes beyond common understanding and rationalization.[19]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) A term used to describe the exceptional capabilities that the king possesses due to his connection with divine beings.[20]
From: Vakyapadiya of Bhartrihari
(1) The exceptional abilities of the Pitris, demons, and goblins which surpass normal perception and inference.[21]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad Bhashya Vartika
(1) The remarkable abilities of the fairies that enable them to experience a bliss superior to that of humans.[22]
Jain concept of 'Extraordinary powers'
Extraordinary power in Jainism encompasses unique abilities of celestial beings, exceptional strengths of kings like Surashreshtha, special attributes of beings such as 'vidyadhara,' and the high spiritual status indicated by possessing a projectable body.
From: Tattvartha Sutra (with commentary)
(1) Refers to the special abilities that may be indicated by the possession of the projectable body, suggesting a high spiritual status.[23] (2) Refers to beings like 'vidyadhara' that possess special abilities but are not found beyond the Manushottara mountain range.[24] (3) Unique abilities or attributes possessed by celestial beings that distinguish them from ordinary entities.[25]
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) A phrase describing the exceptional abilities and strength of Surashreshtha as a king.[26]
The concept of 'Extraordinary powers' in local and regional sources
Extraordinary power encompasses significant spiritual influence, exemplified by Tulsidas's miraculous abilities and the profound significance of Vishnu's name. This highlights the unique impact of specific spiritual figures and practices within regional contexts.
From: Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints
(1) A unique and significant influence possessed by certain spiritual practices or figures.[27] (2) The remarkable abilities attributed to Tulsidas, particularly his connection to divine miracles.[28] (3) The remarkable influence and significance of Vishnu's name, which is to be proclaimed by his representatives.[29]