Significance of Great strength
Great strength in various religious contexts highlights the impressive physical power and resilience attributed to deities, legendary figures, and warriors. In Hinduism, it is associated with rituals and divine qualities; Jainism emphasizes the physical capabilities of heroes like Bahubali; Tibetan Buddhism refers to both mental and physical strength. Vaishnavism celebrates the might of figures such as Krishna and Bhima. Similarly, other traditions, like Buddhism and Ayurveda, recognize great strength as a vital attribute for performance and spiritual resilience, showcasing its significance across cultures.
Synonyms: Mighty power, Tremendous force, Immense strength, Extraordinary power, Robust strength, Power, Might, Vigor, Force, Potency
In Dutch: Grote kracht
In Finnish: Suuri voima
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 strength'
Great strength in Buddhism encompasses both inner resilience gained through practice and the formidable power of bodhisattvas to benefit others. It also includes physical abilities and the spiritual prowess that aids in liberating beings across realms.
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) The formidable power of the bodhisattva that enables him to perform actions that benefit all beings and share his wisdom.[1] (2) A robust capability or power resulting from previous causes or current conditions.[2]
From: Mahayana Mahaparinirvana Sutra
(1) The inner resilience and power attained through adherence to the principles of Buddhism, enhancing one's ability to help others.[3]
From: Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva Purvapranidhana Sutra
(1) Refers to the powerful spiritual abilities that enable Earth Store Bodhisattva to liberate numerous beings across countless realms.[4]
From: Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva (Sutra of the Great Vow)
(1) A quality attributed to knowledgeable individuals who can assist others in lessening their spiritual burdens and navigating their karmic paths.[5]
From: Guhyagarbha Tantra (with Commentary)
(1) This phrase is used to characterize Maheshvara, who is described as being powerful and formidable among other beings.[6]
From: Tattvasangraha [with commentary]
(1) A significant level of physical or mental power that contributes to the ability to execute proficient jumping, essential in conjunction with mind concentration.[7]
Hindu concept of 'Great strength'
In Hinduism, "Great strength" signifies exceptional physical and magical prowess exhibited by deities and heroes, enhancing their combat abilities and resilience against adversaries, a quality revered among notable figures like Arjuna, Karna, and Bhishma.
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) A reference to the physical prowess exhibited by warriors such as Ghatotkacha and Bhagadatta during the encounters.[9] (2) A trait attributed to various warriors, suggesting their physical power and capability in battle.[10] (3) Refers to the physical might of the boy, displayed even at a young age.[11] (4) Referring to a person's physical or spiritual power, particularly that of Balarama.[12] (5) A significant level of physical power, often associated with fierce beings like Daityas and Rakshasas.[13]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki
(1) The extraordinary power granted to Taraka by Brahma through a boon, enabling her to rival the might of a thousand elephants.[14] (2) A term used to describe Ravana's physical power, which makes him a formidable enemy against Rama and his forces.[15] (3) The formidable power possessed by characters in battle, particularly associated with Virupaksha.[16] (4) A reference to Rama’s physical capability, contributing to his stature as a warrior.[17] (5) A quality endowed to Rama and Lakshmana, reinforcing their heroic attributes.[18]
From: Skanda Purana
(1) Signifies the bestowed strength that aids devotees against enemies and adversities.[19] (2) Ashokadatta, the second son of the Brahmana, is recognized for his exceptional physical strength and skill in both weaponry and scriptural literature.[20] (3) Describes the power held by the Danavas during the battle, highlighting their formidable presence on the battlefield.[21] (4) The exceptional martial prowess of both Vishnu and Kalanemi during their conflict.[22] (5) Refers to the capability of the hawk, contrasting the doves' perceived vulnerability.[23]
From: Shiva Purana
(1) Refers to powerful attributes, emphasizing both physical abilities and internal resolve.[24] (2) Describes Karttikeya's formidable power as he continues to fight against the Danavas.[25] (3) Describes Hiranyaksha, who was killed by Vishnu, indicating his formidable power.[26] (4) Referring to Taraka, a characteristic that poses a challenge to the deities and their plans.[27] (5) Descriptive phrase used to highlight the power and abilities of the Ganas accompanying Shiva.[28]
From: Linga Purana
(1) A quality attributed to the noble-souled sons of Taraka, highlighting their power and resilience.[29] (2) A notable attribute of Agnidhra, illustrating his physical power.[30] (3) The formidable power held by Virabhadra, used to confront Nrisimha.[31] (4) Rama is described as wielding the ploughshare as his weapon and possessing great strength.[32] (5) Attributes the formidable power of Hiranyaksha, implying a significant challenge for the Devas.[33]
From: Brahma Purana
(1) An aspect emphasizing the formidable power of Narasimha, making him an object of reverence.[34] (2) Referring to the formidable power attained through devotion that enables one to triumph over adversaries.[35] (3) Describes Aniruddha, conveying his significance as a strong character and his lineage from Pradyumna.[36] (4) A reference to the divine might displayed through the various actions of the incarnations of Vishnu.[37] (5) A characteristic exhibited by characters like Krishna and Balarama during their confrontations with Canura and Mushtika.[38]
From: Brahmanda Purana
(1) A characteristic attributed to Raji, indicating valor and prowess in battle.[39] (2) The immense power possessed by noble souls as a result of their spiritual practices.[40] (3) The inherent power and might possessed by various beings, particularly noted among Rakshasas.[41] (4) A quality attributed to the king of Haihayas, emphasizing his military capabilities.[42] (5) The Asuras possessed significant physical strength, aiding them in their various exploits and battles.[43]
From: Harivamsha Purana
(1) Describes Pravara's capabilities, particularly in combat against Satyaki.[44] (2) Attribute of King Sagara that enabled him to conquer the world and impose order among Kshatriya clans.[45] (3) The formidable power attributed to Kamsa, emphasized by the mourning figures surrounding him.[46] (4) The powerful influence or ability of the Pitris to affect the lives of the living.[47]
From: Agni Purana
(1) Refers to a quality attributed to an individual or deity invoked in the protective rituals.[48] (2) Significant power or force gained after performing rituals.[49] (3) A formidable physical or spiritual power that enables individuals or beings to overcome challenges.[50]
From: Markandeya Purana
(1) A descriptor for the man that emerged from Nishumbha's heart after being struck, indicating formidable potential in battle.[51] (2) A defining trait of the inhabitants of Hiranmaya, indicating their physical power.[52] (3) The impressive physical power possessed by the prince in the battle.[53]
From: Vishnu Purana (Taylor)
(1) Krishna's notable physical capability, allowing him to perform exceptional feats.[54] (2) A characteristic that Satyavati’s mother wished for her son, contrasting with the virtues of a brahmin.[55] (3) A quality attributed to the monarchs of the lineage, symbolizing physical power.[56]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) The overwhelming power of Maya that deludes all beings, including divine entities such as Vishnu and Shiva.[57] (2) An attribute of Shumbha that is highlighted as a critical factor in the ongoing battle.[58]
From: Lalitopakhyana (Lalita Mahatmya)
(1) Refers to the powerful capabilities of the forces both of the Daityas and their opponents.[59] (2) A capacity that characterizes Bhandasura, enabling him to brutalize the Devas and cause fear in the cosmos.[60]
From: Gautami Mahatmya
(1) A characteristic of Ambika, emphasizing her power in the context of the story.[61] (2) A notable quality of the sons born from Atreyi, highlighting their might.[62]
From: Nilamata Purana
(1) An attribute possessed by Nandi, who was born through divine intervention to the Brahmana Silada.[63]
From: Garuda Purana
(1) The power endowed to Garuda by Vasudeva, symbolizing resilience and capability in fulfilling divine roles.[64]
From: Brihaddharma Purana (abridged)
(1) The physical capability showcased by Rama and Sugriva's army during their journey.[65]
From: Padma Purana
(1) The significant power exhibited by the female hog and her son while fighting off hunters.[66]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) A significant amount of power or force.[67] (2) A description of the immense physical power exhibited by the wrestlers during their confrontation.[68] (3) This term emphasizes the extreme power associated with the essence of the Supreme being, indicating a quality recognized by the sages.[69] (4) A notable level of power or force, highlighted in the context as associated with Kamsa.[70] (5) An attribute of the demons indicating their formidable powers.[71]
From: Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu
(1) The display of Krishna's physical prowess when he lifts the mountain, which serves to benefit his friends.[72] (2) A reference to the immense power possessed by Trinavarta, which allows it to uproot large forest trees.[73]
From: Tiruvaymoli (Thiruvaimozhi): English translation
(1) The significant merit associated with the hymns that portray the Divine accurately.[74]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) A significant power derived from prior experiences and consistent practice that empowers one to continue in humility and devotion.[75]
From: Prem Sagar (English translation)
(1) The qualities attributed to Kesi, the devil sent by Kamsa to eliminate Krishna and Balarama.[76]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) A characteristic attributed to the bridegroom in the Rakshasa form, enabling him to carry away the bride.[77] (2) A notable physical ability, characterized by well-developed limbs and larger body proportions.[78] (3) The daunting physical force possessed by the abductor, which instills fear in the guardians and contributes to the Rakshasa form.[79]
From: Bharadvaja-srauta-sutra
(1) A desired quality that is invoked through rituals, suggesting the power and vitality attained through spiritual practices.[80]
From: Prashna Upanishad with Shankara’s Commentary
(1) The type of deeds that vyana is capable of performing, highlighting its significant power.[81]
From: Chandogya Upanishad (english Translation)
(1) Feats demanding great effort, such as producing fire, running, or bending a bow.[82]
From: Parama Samhita (English translation)
(1) Describes powerful deities like the Sun and their benevolent influence on the worshippers.[83]
From: Rasa Jala Nidhi, vol 1: Initiation, Mercury and Laboratory
(1) The significant physical power that can be achieved through the proper use of mercury.[84]
From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)
(1) One of the powers that Sunda and Upasunda demanded from Brahma, indicating their desire for physical prowess.[85]
From: Yoga-sutras (with Vyasa and Vachaspati Mishra)
(1) Indicates the significant physical power that the body possesses as part of its perfection.[86]
From: Charaka Samhita (English translation)
(1) A profound physical power thought to be gained through appropriate treatment and the use of vitalizing substances.[87]
From: Satapatha-brahmana
(1) A quality associated with the mighty fire that is yoked with strength and offerings during rituals.[88]
Jain concept of 'Great strength'
In Jainism, Great strength encompasses significant physical power exemplified by figures like Bahubali, Nala's impressive feats, the formidable abilities of deities, and aspirations for resilience, highlighting both physical prowess and spiritual perseverance.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) Possessing significant physical power, which Bahubali and his warriors exemplified.[89] (2) Vishvabhuti’s aspiration for power to retaliate against Vishakhanandin in future existence, expressed through his nidana.[90] (3) Nala's physical capability is highlighted when he easily lifts a tall pillar, despite his recent misfortunes.[91]
From: Bhagavati-sutra (Viyaha-pannatti)
(1) The formidable power or resilience attributed to the great deva, emphasizing its superior capabilities.[92]