Significance of Hundred sons
The keyphrase "Hundred sons" refers to various interpretations across different philosophical and religious contexts. In Jainism, it signifies the offspring of Rishabha, anointed as kings. In Vaishnavism, it indicates a simple acknowledgment of numerous sons, while Puranic texts elaborate on the wishes of specific figures like Mena. Additionally, it highlights notable figures from the lineage of Dhritarashtra, including the Kauravas, and emphasizes the significance of lineage and progeny in multiple narratives, reflecting abundance and legacy.
Synonyms: Century
In Dutch: Honderd zonen; In Finnish: Sata poikaa
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Hundred sons'
In Hinduism, "Hundred sons" symbolizes prolific lineage and legacy, notably linked to figures like Dhritarashtra and Pracetas, emphasizing familial abundance, both in quantity and quality of offspring, with significant roles in narratives and dynastic continuities.
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) Refers collectively to the numerous sons of Dhritarashtra, including the mentioned names.[1] (2) The offspring of Vasishtha who were destroyed by Visvamitra as a manifestation of his anger.[2] (3) A specific boon Krishna solicits, representing a substantial progeny.[3] (4) Refers to the sons of Dhritarashtra, showcasing the contrast between quantity and quality of offspring in the story.[4] (5) The culmination of the Rishi's effort, representing the sons born to Dhritarashtra, as per Gandhari's expectations.[5]
From: Vishnu Purana
(1) The numerous descendants of Rishabha, indicating his prolific lineage.[6] (2) Refers to Pracetas' numerous progeny, highlighting a large family scale.[7] (3) Refers to the sons of Karttavirya, among whom five are noted as principal figures.[8] (4) The numerous offspring of Dhritarashtra, highlighting the fertility and lineage of his branch of the Kuru dynasty.[9] (5) Refers to the large number of offspring produced by Bali, of whom Bana is noted as the eldest.[10]
From: Agni Purana
(1) A large number of offspring born to Raja, symbolizing abundance and significance.[11] (2) The offspring of Dhritarashtra and Gandhari, including the notable antagonist Duryodhana within the story.[12] (3) He had a hundred sons among whom Anadra, Sabhanara, Cakshusha and Parameshuka were foremost.[13] (4) The numerous offspring, particularly referring to the progeny of Virocana, a character within the context of lineage and familial relations.[14]
From: Skanda Purana
(1) A reference to Dhritarashtra's numerous children, the Kauravas.[15] (2) The desired number of heirs Dharmasakha aimed to have, motivating his various religious and sacrosanct endeavors.[16] (3) Referring to the numerous offspring of king Dhritarashtra who participated in the installation of Lingas.[17]
From: Shiva Purana
(1) He had a hundred sons who were liberal in bestowing gifts.[18] (2) Anaranya had a hundred sons but was more fond of his daughter than of them.[19] (3) One of Mena's specific wishes to the Goddess, reflecting her hopes for progeny endowed with various virtues.[20]
From: Brahmanda Purana
(1) Pracetas had a hundred sons who were all kings, indicating a significant royal lineage.[21] (2) The sons of Karttavirya who resisted Bhargava, infuriated by the death of their father.[22] (3) The offspring of Karttavirya, emphasizing the vast lineage he produced.[23]
From: Matsya Purana (critical study)
(1) The many descendants of Praseta, indicating the extensive progeny that ruled in their respective territories.[24] (2) The boon requested by Savitri for her father, showing a concern for familial prosperity.[25] (3) Arjuna is noted to have begotten a hundred sons, of which five were distinguished as valiant and virtuous.[26]
From: Padma Purana
(1) The offspring of Shatabindu, highlighting a prolific lineage that contributes to the legacy of the kings who bore the name Prithu.[27] (2) The numerous offspring produced by Bali, showcasing the expansive lineage connected to this figure.[28]
From: Harivamsha Purana
(1) Refers to the many sons of Kuvalashva, indicating both his legacy and the importance of lineage in the narrative.[29] (2) The numerous offspring of Satrajit, illustrating a vast and significant family.[30]
From: Vishnu Purana (Taylor)
(1) The progeny of Arjuna Kartavirya, highlighting the significant lineage he established.[31] (2) The offspring of Pracetas, who became overlords.[32]
From: Bhagavata Purana
(1) The numerous descendants of Viraja, highlighting the continuation of the dynasty.[33]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki
(1) The progeny that Ikshvaku was blessed with after performing sacrifices and charitable deeds.[34]
From: Linga Purana
(1) The numerous offspring of Shashabindu, significant in their lineage.[35]
From: Garuda Purana
(1) Refers to the offspring of queen Gandhari, highlighting the tragic consequences of her fasting practices.[36]
From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)
(1) A boon requested by Ratnavati for her father, who desires offspring after his daughter's marriage.[37]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) A term used to denote the many offspring of a male, specifically stating there were one hundred in this context.[38]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) A reference to the consequence of accusations against Vasishtha, concerning claims of having harmed his kin.[39]
Jain concept of 'Hundred sons'
In Jainism, "Hundred sons" refers to the offspring of Rishabha, the first Tirthankara. He appointed each of these sons as kings, granting them individual kingdoms and establishing a lineage of leadership and governance.
From: Kalpa-sutra (Lives of the Jinas)
(1) The offspring of Rishabha whom he anointed as kings, each receiving a kingdom.[40]