Significance of Foremost

The term "Foremost" signifies a position of highest rank and distinction across various religious contexts. In Vaishnavism, it reflects the importance of an entity. In the Purana, Mahadeva is described as the highest revered being. In Theravada Buddhism, "Foremost" is specifically a title bestowed by the Buddha to individuals like Katiyani and Kali, recognizing their exceptional qualities, and to Mahanama and Surambattha, for their significant roles among lay disciples.1

Synonyms: Primary, Chief, Principal, Top, Predominant, Head, Supreme

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

Buddhist concept of 'Foremost'

Buddhism Books

In Buddhism, "Foremost" designates exceptional individuals among disciples, highlighting the highest ranks of Kali among female disciples, Surambattha among lay disciples, Katiyani's outstanding qualities, and Mahanama's generosity.

Significance of Foremost in Theravada (major branch of Buddhism):

Theravada Books

From: Maha Buddhavamsa—The Great Chronicle of Buddhas

(1) A designation given by the Buddha indicating the highest rank or status among his lay disciples, attributed to Surambattha.^[1] (2) The title given by the Buddha to Katiyani, recognizing her exceptional qualities among female lay disciples.^[2] (3) A designation given by the Buddha to Mahanama, recognizing him as the leading lay disciple based on his generous offerings.^[3] (4) The term used by the Buddha to indicate Kali's exceptional status among his female disciples.^[4]

Theravada is a major branch of Buddhism having the the Pali canon (tipitaka) as their canonical literature, which includes the vinaya-pitaka (monastic rules), the sutta-pitaka (Buddhist sermons) and the abhidhamma-pitaka (philosophy and psychology).

Hindu concept of 'Foremost'

Hinduism Books

In Hinduism, "Foremost" signifies Mahadeva as the supreme entity, embodying the highest reverence and distinction, reflecting an ultimate position of importance within the spiritual hierarchy.

Significance of Foremost in Purana and Itihasa (epic history):

Purana Books

From: Mahabharata (English)

(1) Describes Mahadeva as the highest or most revered among all entities.^[5]

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.

Significance of Foremost in Vaishnavism (Vaishava dharma):

Vaishnavism Books

From: Chaitanya Bhagavata

(1) Being at the top or highest rank, implying a position of distinction or importance.^[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’).

Last Updated: 29 October, 2024