Significance of Great beauty
Synonyms: Stunning beauty, Exquisite beauty, Remarkable beauty, Breathtaking beauty, Loveliness, Charm, Attractiveness, Radiance, Splendor, Magnificence
In Dutch: Grote schoonheid; In Finnish: Suuri kauneus; In Spanish: Gran belleza
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 beauty'
In Buddhism, Great beauty can be interpreted as a captivating allure seen in the Bodhisatta, Queen Mallika's virtuous charm, or as an extraordinary physical attractiveness exemplified by a maiden from Sagala, highlighting both human and transcendent qualities.
From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) A description of the Bodhisatta that captivated the queen and led to her illicit advances.[1] (2) Referring to the maiden's exceptional physical appearance, surpassing human beauty yet not divine.[2]
From: Maha Buddhavamsa—The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) A characteristic attributed to Queen Mallika, suggesting her physical and virtuous attractiveness.[3]
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) The exceptional physical attractiveness of the maiden discovered in Sagala.[4]
Hindu concept of 'Great beauty'
In Hinduism, "Great beauty" encompasses divine aesthetics, exemplified by Vishvakarman's majestic hall, deities' allure, and the profound beauty of figures like Radha and Shiva, symbolizing both physical attractiveness and deeper spiritual significance.
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) An attribute ascribed to Pancachuda that showcases not only her physical appeal but also her status among celestial beings.[5] (2) Refers to the maiden that king Parikshit encountered in the forest, noted for her exceptional attractiveness.[6] (3) An attribute of the four kings who were described as splendid and striking upon Yayati's arrival.[7] (4) The notable physical appearance of Rama, enhancing his presence among the other figures.[8] (5) A characteristic attributed to the floral wreaths worn by participants, enhancing the aesthetics of the festival.[9]
From: Skanda Purana
(1) A profound aesthetic appeal associated with divine or celestial figures.[10] (2) The quality attributed to Citra's daughter, Citra, highlighting her physical appearance and virtues.[11] (3) Another affectionate reference to the goddess, emphasizing her remarkable appearance and divine attributes.[12] (4) A description of the exceptional physical appearance attributed to the maidens in Patala, stirring delight among onlookers.[13]
From: Shiva Purana
(1) A description of Shiva's form, emphasizing its surpassing attractiveness, which is impossible to adequately describe.[14] (2) The throne of Shankhcuda was of great beauty and attended by a crore Danavas.[15] (3) An attribute of Shiva, indicating the extraordinary attractiveness that captivates all women.[16] (4) Refers to the large hall constructed by Vishvakarman, which was noted for its aesthetics as commanded by Shiva.[17]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki
(1) A trait of Taraka that grows as she matures, contributing to her significance in the story.[18] (2) The striking physical appeal of Rama, contributing to his esteemed personage.[19]
From: Padma Purana
(1) Describes the extraordinary physical attributes and divine presence of the goddess.[20]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) An admirable physical trait associated with king Pururava which captivated many, including Urvashi.[21]
From: Harivamsha Purana
(1) The radiance and magnificence that Vishnu displays upon awakening from his slumber.[22]
From: Brahmanda Purana
(1) An exceptional level of physical attractiveness, attributed to goddess Stuta.[23]
From: Lalitopakhyana (Lalita Mahatmya)
(1) An exceptional form of the goddess, admired for her exquisite appearance.[24]
From: Prem Sagar (English translation)
(1) The transformation of the hump-backed woman into a beautiful form after being blessed by Krishna.[25] (2) A quality attributed to Rookmunee, highlighting her physical allure.[26] (3) A description of the forest setting where Krishna interacts with the cowherdesses, emphasizing its enchanting nature.[27]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) A description implying that Radha's beauty is not just physical but holds a profound importance.[28] (2) A phrase that emphasizes the resultant charm and allure brought to Vraja.[29]
From: Shat-cakra-nirupana (the six bodily centres)
(1) An acknowledgment of the aesthetic and spiritual allure of the Bana-Linga, often evoking intense desire.[30]
From: Satapatha-brahmana
(1) A state to which the horse is encouraged to go, representing a desired outcome in rituals directed towards Agni.[31]
From: Sahitya-kaumudi by Baladeva Vidyabhushana
(1) A description referring to the extraordinary attractiveness that causes overwhelming feelings.[32]
From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)
(1) Describes the alluring and often dangerous qualities of Apsarases, who are tasked with distracting pious mortals.[33]
Jain concept of 'Great beauty'
In Jainism, Great beauty signifies extraordinary allure, exemplified by Pushpadanti's stunning appearance that surpassed divine goddesses, Arhat Parshva's physical attributes, and the attractiveness associated with celestial beings (devas).
From: Bhagavati-sutra (Viyaha-pannatti)
(1) Refers to the attributes of attractiveness and desirability associated with devas in the celestial abodes.[34]
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) Refers to the remarkable appearance of Pushpadanti, which was so captivating that it threatened the beauty of goddesses.[35]
From: Kalpa-sutra (Lives of the Jinas)
(1) An attribute highlighting the physical appearance of Arhat Parshva.[36]
The concept of Great beauty in local and regional sources
The keyphrase "Great beauty" denotes the mother's enhanced allure after wealth acquisition and Urvashi's exceptional physical charm, mesmerizing all who behold her, illustrating the transformative power of beauty in social and personal contexts.
From: Village Folk-tales of Ceylon (Sri Lanka), vol. 1-3
(1) An attribute of the boy's mother after being adorned and celebrated due to their newfound wealth.[37]
From: Triveni Journal
(1) Refers to the extraordinary and bewitching physical attributes of Urvashi that captivate those around her.[38]