Significance of Great ascetic
The term "Great ascetic" is widely used across various spiritual traditions, including Jainism, Tibetan Buddhism, Purana, Kavya, and others. It generally refers to highly respected individuals known for their dedication to ascetic practices and strict self-discipline. Key examples include King Padma in Jainism, Rishi Apava in Purana, and Gotama the Buddha in Theravada Buddhism. These figures symbolize profound spiritual commitment, often characterized by rigorous austerities aimed at achieving enlightenment or significant spiritual insight.
Synonyms: Hermit, Monk, Recluse, Saint, Sage
In Dutch: Grote asceet; In Finnish: Mahtava askeettinen; In Spanish: Gran asceta
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Great ascetic'
The term "Great Ascetic" in Buddhism refers to significant figures like Gotama Buddha, advanced practitioners, and Tathagatas, emphasizing renunciation and spiritual teachings, while also being used ironically in relation to individuals like Jambuka.
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) A title that Jambuka pretended to live up to while enduring his extreme lifestyle, despite its actual futility.[1] (2) The term 'great ascetic' describes the Tathagata, highlighting his renunciation and profound spiritual teachings regarding the causation of phenomena.[2]
From: Blue Annals (deb-ther sngon-po)
(1) A title for the figure bsod nams rgyal mtshan, who engaged in ascetic practices after serving as abbot.[3] (2) A term denoting the advanced spiritual practitioner that shes rab mgon po became, highlighting his dedication to ascetic practices.[4]
From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) A reference to Gotama the Buddha, emphasizing his renounced life and spiritual practice.[5]
Hindu concept of 'Great ascetic'
The term "Great ascetic" in Hinduism signifies highly respected sages like Gautama and Vyasa, distinguished for their rigorous self-control, spiritual practices, and wisdom. It encompasses revered figures known for their austerity, discipline, and significant spiritual energy.
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) A term reflecting Jajali's dedication and the high regard in which he is held as a practitioner of asceticism.[6] (2) Another title for Usanas, reflecting his dedication to spiritual practice and discipline.[7] (3) Rishi Apava, noted for his powerful ascetic practices and wisdom, whose curse had significant implications for the Vasus.[8] (4) A revered figure noted for their austerity and dedication to spiritual practices, in this context, referring to Vyasa.[9] (5) A person, like Vyasa, who is deeply involved in spiritual practices and understanding of truth.[10]
From: Harivamsha Purana
(1) Spiritual figures who sing the glories of the gods during the battle preparations.[11] (2) Jamadagni, recognized for his intense spiritual practices and detachment from worldly pursuits.[12] (3) A highly disciplined spiritual practitioner, often revered for deep meditation and rejection of worldly pleasures.[13] (4) Refers to the highly revered practitioners of austerity and spiritual disciplines.[14] (5) Refers to Kashyapa, who is noted for his strict discipline and spiritual practices, respected among deities.[15]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki
(1) A highly revered sage known for his wisdom and ability to perceive the hearts of others.[16] (2) Shri Vishvamitra, recognized for his firm vows and wisdom, who describes the country to the two princes and other sages.[17] (3) A title referring to Sage Sharabhanga, indicating his spiritual practice and commitment to renunciation.[18] (4) A highly revered person known for self-discipline and dedication to spiritual practices.[19] (5) The highly revered sages who gathered at Rama's call to witness his sons sing the epilogue to the Ramayana.[20]
From: Skanda Purana
(1) Vajranga's characterization following his extensive meditation and penance to ascend in strength and virtue.[21] (2) A revered practitioner of austerity, who desires to learn more about the Tirtha and its significance.[22] (3) A term used to describe Pippalada as a dedicated and highly revered practitioner of spiritual austerity.[23] (4) Highly revered spiritual practitioners known for their intensive meditation and discipline.[24] (5) Refers to Sage Galava, who practices severe austerities and meditation in his hermitage.[25]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) Refers to Trishira, a figure distinguished by his dedication to spiritual practices and learning.[26] (2) A title signifying a highly devoted and disciplined individual, in this context, Brahma performing spiritual practices.[27] (3) A practitioner of severe self-discipline and renunciation, representing a high level of spiritual practice.[28] (4) Refers to Vritrasura who was meditating and performing penance without being disturbed.[29] (5) The label given to Bhrigu Muni's son, known for his spiritual powers and practices.[30]
From: Shiva Purana
(1) Individuals who have advanced in spiritual practices and possess the courage to overcome obstacles in their path.[31] (2) Another title ascribed to Shiva reflecting his deep commitment to spiritual practice and detachment from worldly affairs.[32]
From: Padma Purana
(1) Describes Vajranga as someone who practiced intense austerities and penance.[33] (2) A person who practices severe self-discipline and abstention from worldly pleasures.[34]
From: Bhagavata Purana
(1) Refers to significant sages known for their spiritual practices and contributions to divine lineage.[35]
From: Agni Purana
(1) The great ascetic Bali was born from him.[36]
From: Gautami Mahatmya
(1) A highly regarded sage who visits king Sagara and offers him a boon of progeny.[37]
From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)
(1) Refers to Jalapada, a character who possesses magical abilities and mutters spells.[38]
From: Harsha-charita
(1) A sage known for his severe penance and austere lifestyle, which in this context refers to Durvasas.[39]
From: Thirty minor Upanishads
(1) An individual deeply committed to spiritual practices, embodying renunciation and wisdom.[40]
From: Narayaniya (Narayaneeyam)
(1) Describes a person dedicated to severe self-discipline and austerity for spiritual purposes, specifically referencing Narayana.[41]
From: Rasa Jala Nidhi, vol 5: Treatment of various afflictions
(1) Highly respected practitioners of meditation and spiritual disciplines who consulted and learned from the experiences of King Rama Chandra.[42]
Jain concept of 'Great ascetic'
In Jainism, the term "Great ascetic" signifies a title for disciplined individuals like Jamali and King Padma, symbolizing their commitment to asceticism, alongside the recognition and protection of revered spiritual practitioners by rulers.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) A title for King Padma in his later life, indicating his dedication to ascetic practices.[43] (2) A title given to Jamali reflecting his disciplined practices, despite his fall into wrong belief.[44] (3) Highly respected spiritual practitioners who are acknowledged and should be protected by rulers.[45]
The concept of Great ascetic in local and regional sources
The keyphrase "Great ascetic" emphasizes Ruru's esteemed status as a powerful young ascetic, possessing spiritual abilities that rival those of his renowned grandfather, Bhrigu, highlighting his significant legacy and potential within ascetic traditions.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) A revered figure who has achieved deep self-control, detachment, and spiritual enlightenment.[46] (2) A title reflecting the high spiritual accomplishments and renunciation of the shramana.[47] (3) Ruru's status as a powerful young ascetic with spiritual prowess comparable to his grandfather Bhrigu.[48]