Significance of Great retinue
The keyphrase "Great retinue" refers to a large group of attendants or followers accompanying significant figures, primarily kings and dignitaries, across various contexts in South Asia and Theravada traditions. This entourage often includes ministers, courtiers, bodyguards, and specific groups like paribbajakas, highlighting the power and social hierarchy associated with these leaders. In historical accounts, such as India's, a "Great retinue" encompasses lavish displays with elephants and horses, symbolizing status as figures approach authority.
Synonyms: Grand procession
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 retinue'
The concept of "Great retinue" in Buddhism signifies the extensive entourage of influential figures surrounding royalty, illustrating power dynamics, societal status, and meticulously organized support during significant events, reinforcing the authority and reputation of figures like King Suddhodana and Princess Yasodhara.
From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) The large group of people Sattuka insists on bringing for the offering, part of his deception.[1] (2) A large group of followers or subjects that the king of Benares assigned to protect and honor the Bodhisatta's family of pigs.[2] (3) A large group of attendants or followers accompanying the king during his procession.[3] (4) A large group of attendants accompanying the King during hunts, indicating the King's power and the societal hierarchy.[4] (5) A large group or entourage accompanying the king during his garden visit.[5]
From: Maha Buddhavamsa—The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) A group of distinguished followers or attendants, signifying the status and reputation of Princess Yasodhara, who represented high social standings.[6] (2) The large entourage consisting of ministers, courtiers, bodyguards, and followers accompanying King Suddhodana, signifying his power and authority.[7]
From: Vinaya (2): The Mahavagga
(1) A large group of followers accompanying Sanjaya, consisting of paribbajakas.[8]
From: Lotus Sutra (Saddharma-Pundarika)
(1) The entourage or following that denotes status and wealth.[9]
From: Buddhacarita
(1) The large group of supporters and disciples surrounding the Buddha, indicative of his influence and the acceptance of his teachings.[10]
The concept of Great retinue in local and regional sources
Great retinue signifies an impressive entourage, evidenced by the majestic assembly of elephants and attendants for the elder brother, the group aiding Sokka and the Princess in their quest, and the King’s entourage involved in the robe charade.
From: Village Folk-tales of Ceylon (Sri Lanka), vol. 1-3
(1) The group accompanying Sokka and the Princess to carry out the charge mentioned in their quest.[11] (2) The group accompanying the King that also participates in the charade surrounding the invisible robe.[12]
From: Folklore of the Santal Parganas
(1) The lavish company of elephants, horses, and attendants that magically appeared for the elder brother as he approached the Raja.[13]