Significance of Gopala
Gopala, a term primarily associated with Lord Krishna in Vaishnavism, highlights His significant role as the protector of cows and caretaker of the cowherd community. This name emphasizes His nurturing nature while underlining His identity as an essential figure in Hindu mythology, especially during His childhood pastimes in Vrindavana. Gopala is often recognized for His divine intervention, such as lifting Govardhana Hill, and is revered both as a protector and benefactor of the Yadava race.
Synonyms: Krishna, Govinda, Mukunda, Madhava, Hari
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Gopala'
In Buddhism, Gopala signifies a prince born to Queen Gopala-mata, named in homage to his grandfather, indicating a lineage of spiritual significance and royal heritage within the tradition.
From: Maha Buddhavamsa—The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) The name given to the prince born to Queen Gopala-mata, named after his grandfather.[1]
Hindu concept of 'Gopala'
Gopala in Hinduism signifies Lord Krishna, emphasizing His role as the protector of cows and caregiver. This name highlights His divine qualities, childhood pastimes, and connection to the Yadava race, while also reflecting claims of imposters.
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) Another name for Lord Krishna, emphasizing His role as a protector of cows and a guardian.[2] (2) A figure that is nondifferent from Gauranga.[3] (3) An identity advertised by a sinful person who is referred to as a jackal by the devotees, representing a false logician and an imposter.[4] (4) One of the names of Lord Krishna, emphasizing His role as a protector of cows.[5] (5) A misleading self-declaration by a brahma-daitya who desired to deceive others by claiming to be a divine figure.[6]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) A form of the Lord that embodies qualities of a protector and nurturer, connecting to His cowherd pastimes.[7] (2) O cowherd; a name that signifies Krishna's role as a protector and caretaker of cows.[8] (3) the Lord, referred to as Gopala[9] (4) Refers to Shri Gopala, a form of Lord Krishna who is especially revered as the protector and caretaker of cows.[10]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) A title that means 'protector of cows' associated with Lord Krishna, emphasizing his role as a caregiver and nurturer.[11] (2) He is Lord Gopala, a significant figure who has come without His flute and stick.[12] (3) The protector of the cows.[13] (4) O gopas; a term used to address the cowherds, indicating their role as caretakers of cows.[14]
From: Srila Gurudeva (The Supreme Treasure)
(1) The deity who is identified as the lifter of Govardhana Hill, embodying the divine presence that Madhavendra Puri was instructed to serve.[15] (2) A name for Shri Krishna, often used in the context of his childhood pastimes in Vrindavana.[16]
From: Tiruvaymoli (Thiruvaimozhi): English translation
(1) A name for the Lord emphasizing His role as a nurturing and guiding figure, akin to a shepherd.[17]
From: Sahitya-kaumudi by Baladeva Vidyabhushana
(1) A reference to Lord Krishna, integral to the spiritual and poetic themes within the text.[18]
From: Vishnu Purana
(1) A name attributed to Krishna, indicating his role as the protector and benefactor of the Yadava race.[19]