Significance of Gopa
The term Gopa encompasses various meanings across different contexts. In Arthashastra, it refers to village accountants and officers managing household finances. Within Vaishnavism, Gopa highlights the cowherds, or gopas, who are closely associated with Lord Krishna, engaging in pastoral activities and embodying the community's care for cows. They play significant roles in Krishna’s adventures, celebrate with him, and form a devoted group integral to the narratives. Additionally, in Mahayana, Gopa denotes a figure tied to the Bodhisattva Shakyamuni’s story.
In Dutch: Gopa; In Finnish: Gopa
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Gopa'
Gopa in Buddhism signifies the first wife of the Bodhisattva Shakyamuni, characterized by her infertility. Her story reflects themes of sacrifice and the complexities of familial relationships within the spiritual journey.
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) The first wife of the Bodhisattva Shakyamuni, who was sterile and had no children.[1]
Hindu concept of 'Gopa'
In Hinduism, Gopa denotes the cowherd community closely associated with Krishna, consisting of his youthful companions and caretakers of cows who participate in his divine pastimes, emphasizing their devotion and intimate relationship with him.
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) Cowherd boys who are companions of Krishna, sharing in his adventures and divine pastimes.[2] (2) The cowherd community who view Lord Krishna as their master and protector, highlighting their loyal relationship.[3] (3) Refers to the cowherds or village men in the context, who are listening to the words spoken.[4] (4) The cowherds who are companions of Lord Krishna, involved in playful activities.[5] (5) The gopas are the friends of the same age as Krishna.[6]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) A term referring to cowherds or pastoralists who are joyfully making offerings.[7] (2) A term that appears to denote a group or entities that are being satisfied, suggesting they require approval or fulfillment.[8]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) The cowherd boys, including figures like Shri Nanda, who are part of the community in Vraja and play an important role in the protection and care of livestock.[9] (2) Refers to the male cowherd friends of the Lord, whom He sometimes calls upon in His dream state.[10]
From: Chaitanya Mangala
(1) Cowherd boys who share a close relationship with Lord Krishna in His pastimes.[11]
From: Srila Gurudeva (The Supreme Treasure)
(1) Gopas are the male cowherds and companions of Krishna, often participating in divine pastimes with Him.[12]
From: Bhajana-Rahasya
(1) a cowherd, either child or adult.[13]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) Cow-herds who originated from the pores of Shri Krishna, equal in form and age.[14] (2) Cowherds from the region of Goloka who are depicted as companions of divine entities.[15]
From: Bhagavata Purana
(1) The cowherds who serve Krishna and Balarama and are sent to request food from the Brahmanas.[16]
From: Harivamsha Purana
(1) The cowherds of Vrindavan, who are deeply connected to Krishna and often partake in his divine pastimes.[17]
From: Kautilya Arthashastra
(1) The village accountant tasked with maintaining the financial records of several villages.[18] (2) An officer responsible for maintaining accounts and monitoring the income and expenditure of households.[19]