Significance of Indra
Indra is a significant deity in Hinduism, recognized as the king of the gods and associated with rain, thunder, and storms. He is a principal figure in the Vedic tradition, symbolizing strength and authority, often invoked during sacrificial rites. Indra is depicted as a powerful warrior god who battles drought and darkness, and he embodies divine leadership and cosmic order. His prominence extends across various texts and traditions, showcasing his influence in the spiritual hierarchy.
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Indra'
Indra in Buddhism is viewed as a significant deity who endorses royal sacrifices and predicts enlightenment, while also supporting Mahinda's mission to spread Buddhist teachings in Lanka.
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) A deity present in the narrative who affirms the king's sacrifice and prophesies his future attainment of Buddhahood.[2]
Hindu concept of 'Indra'
Indra, in Hinduism, is the king of the gods, symbolizing authority, rain, and warfare. He is a prominent Vedic deity involved in various narratives, rituals, and conflicts, representing cosmic power and divine oversight.
From: The Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) The king of the Devas who seeks to defeat the Daityas and is pleased with the success of Brihaspati’s deceit.[3] (2) The king of the Devas and god of thunder, rain, and war in Hindu mythology.[4] (3) The king of the Devas, residing in the eastern corner of Manidvipa in a celestial city.[5] (4) The king of the Devas, associated with the jar of nectar that was stolen by Garuda in order to free his mother.[6] (5) Indra is referred to as the king of the Devas who praised and chanted hymns to Surabhi to alleviate a crisis.[7]
From: The Skanda Purana
(1) The deity associated with the Yoga Sukarman.[8] (2) The king of the Devas who was initially devoid of Goddess Shri and faced defeat.[9] (3) Indra is the leader of the Devas (gods) who sought refuge from Kapardin during their troubled times as humans occupied heaven.[10] (4) The king of the Devas who confronted Kanaka Danava in battle.[11] (5) A god who promised to lend his Vajra (thunderbolt) to Bilva when remembered, acting as a friend and advisor.[12]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) The lord of the celestials who is viewed as the sovereign of the three worlds.[13] (2) The king of the gods in Hindu mythology, symbolizing authority and power, often compared to kingship.[14] (3) The king of the gods in the Mahabharata, who seeks assistance from Brahma to defeat the Asura Vritra.[15] (4) The king of the celestials who was subjugated by the Daitya brothers during their conquests.[16] (5) The king of the celestials who attempted to save his friend’s son by creating a violent wind.[17]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki
(1) The god pleased by the worship of Shunashepha who bestows the blessing of long life upon him.[18] (2) The king of the gods in Hindu mythology, symbolic of power and status attained through righteous actions.[19] (3) A reference to a powerful deity, used to compare Rama's majestic presence and valor.[20] (4) The king of the gods who engaged in war against asuras, during which King Dasaratha supported his cause.[21] (5) The king of the Devas who becomes ruler after slaying the asuras in the conflict, embodying leadership and strength.[22]
From: The Padma Purana
(1) The king of the gods, who is honored in the context of the vows and observances discussed.[23] (2) The lord of the gods who seeks help from Brihaspati after being vanquished by Vritra.[24] (3) The king of gods, who plays a significant role in the narrative, especially regarding Diti's sons.[25] (4) The king of the gods in Hindu mythology, often associated with rain, storms, and warfare.[26] (5) The lord of gods who granted Jamadagni the boon of Surabhi and later bestowed power upon Parashu-Rama to destroy wicked kings.[27]
From: The Bhagavata Purana
(1) The king of gods and eleventh son of Aditi, who played a significant role in the narrative, including the conversion of Diti's sons.[28] (2) The king of the gods who felt threatened by Bali's resurgence and sought counsel from his preceptor about Bali's newfound power.[29] (3) The king of heaven who fears the spiritual superiority of Narayana and acts to undermine him.[30] (4) The king of the gods in heaven, associated with rain and thunderstorms, and mentioned in the text as an important figure during the Manu periods.[31] (5) The king of gods who worships Krishna and presents him with gifts.[32]
From: The Markandeya Purana
(1) The king of the gods who ultimately rewards Harishcandra for his virtue.[33] (2) A deity frequently mentioned in the Markandeya Purana, displaying the interconnectedness of the multiple divine figures across texts.[34] (3) The king of gods, with different identities throughout the various Manus; notably Adbhuta during the ninth Manu.[35] (4) A prominent god in Hindu mythology, symbolic of power and authority, leading the king to heaven.[36] (5) The king of gods, known here as Urjjasvin, associated with thunder and rain.[37]
From: The Agni Purana
(1) The king of the gods who made efforts to kill the demon Bala with the assistance of the hymn.[38] (2) The lord of thirty-three celestials, worshipped in the month of ashvina.[39] (3) The lord deity for the sequence of twelve hymns initiating with ashu.[40] (4) The king of the celestials, changing names and representations with each Manu period.[41]
From: The Gautami Mahatmya
(1) The thunderbolt-armed king of Devas, who enact vengeance against Diti's unborn child, leading to significant consequences.[42] (2) The king of the Devas (gods) in Hindu mythology who plays a crucial role in the story.[43] (3) The king of Devas who faced repeated oustings from his kingdom due to various past deeds and is advised to seek Brahma's guidance.[44] (4) The king of heaven in Hindu mythology, used in a comparison to signify the elevation of souls who partake in holy rituals.[45]
From: The Markandeya Purana (Study)
(1) A prominent Deva who challenged the demons to battle, following the Sun's emergence and the restoration of the gods.[46] (2) A principal deity in Hinduism, associated with rain, thunderstorms, and the heaven, also mentioned as one of the three deities alongside Surya and Agni.[47]
From: The Shiva Purana
(1) A time measure reflecting the life span of Indra, where one day or month of Brahma corresponds to numerous Indras.[48] (2) The king of gods in a particular Manvantara, exemplifying authority and leadership.[49]
From: The Brahmanda Purana
(1) The king of the Devas, leading them through various struggles and endeavors across Manvantaras.[50] (2) The king of the Devas in Hindu mythology, often associated with rain, thunder, and war.[51]
From: The Garuda Purana
(1) The wielder of the thunder-bolt, associated with the deities to be adored.[52] (2) The lord or ruler of the celestials, often depicted as a king-like figure in heavenly realms.[53]
From: Harivamsha Purana
(1) The king of gods, who was eventually said to be a son of Raji and the recipient of the celestial kingdom.[54] (2) The king of the gods who possesses the Parijata tree and is reluctant to part with it, described as having a thousand eyes.[55]
From: The Vishnu Purana (Taylor)
(1) The chief of the Vasus who received Krishna's message about relinquishing his assembly hall to Ugrasena.[56]
From: The Matsya Purana (critical study)
(1) Another deity in the Vedic texts with whom Vishnu is notably associated as a friend.[57]
From: Bhagavad-gita Mahatmya
(1) A deity who perceived a threat to his position and created obstacles against Satyatapas's penance.[58]
From: The Brihaddharma Purana (abridged)
(1) The king of gods in Hindu mythology, whose kingdom Bali had taken.[59]
From: The Brahma Purana
(1) The king of gods in Hindu mythology, mentioned as one who has also propitiated Vasudeva-Ananta.[60]
From: The Vishnu Purana
(1) The king of gods in Hindu mythology, playing a significant role during the periods of creation and destruction.[61]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) The king of the demigods and ruler of heaven in Hindu mythology, associated with thunder and rain.[62] (2) A significant deity in Hindu mythology, often associated with rain, thunder, and the king of the heavens.[63] (3) The name referring to a deity in Hindu mythology, known for his power and authority.[64] (4) The king of the gods in Hindu mythology, from whom the throne was stolen.[65] (5) Indra is a deity in Hinduism known as the king of the gods and god of thunder.[66]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) The king of the demigods in heaven who declares that a sinful man who never hears the topics of Shrimad Bhagavatam is a burden to the earth.[67] (2) A divine figure referenced in the context of an offer of water and flowers.[68] (3) Indra is referenced as a powerful deity in the text, signifying strength and leadership.[69] (4) A deity referenced in the text, known for his prowess.[70] (5) A title for the significant living entity among the vipras, representing one who exhibits prominent qualities or leadership.[71]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) The king of heaven who has a thousand eyes and wields a thunderbolt.[72] (2) The king of heaven, whose position Shri Gopa-kumara lost interest in after hearing a narration from Brihaspati.[73] (3) The king of the demigods who receives blessings and fearlessness from Shri Bhagavan.[74] (4) The king of the demigods, overseeing rain and thunderstorms, and holding a significant position of authority in the universe.[75] (5) The king of the gods who speaks the praises of Brahma, emphasizing Brahma’s pivotal role in the cosmic hierarchy.[76]
From: Tiruvaymoli (Thiruvaimozhi): English translation
(1) The divine figure on behalf of whom the Lord undertakes labors, exemplified by His emergence as Vamana.[77] (2) The overlord of the Devas who reverently contemplates and worships the lotus feet of Lord Vishnu.[78] (3) The king of the Devas in Hindu mythology, representing power and authority, noted for his worship of the Lord.[79] (4) The king of the Devas who, along with other celestial beings, seeks favors from the Supreme Lord.[80]
From: Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu
(1) The king of the gods in Hindu mythology, who can influence weather and is addressed in the verses.[81] (2) A deity addressed in the text, symbolizing authority or leadership.[82] (3) The king of the heavens whose heavenly damsels are being blinded by the actions of Keshi.[83] (4) Indra is another deity referred to as an appointed (adhikrita) dasa by the wise.[84]
From: Prem Sagar (English translation)
(1) The ruler of the gods, traditionally worshipped by the inhabitants of Vraja but criticized by Krishna for lacking true power.[85] (2) The lord of the gods who was asked by Satyabhama for the tree Kulpù.[86]
From: Haribhakti-sudhodaya
(1) The king of the gods, representing worldly power and the limitations of material achievements compared to spiritual devotion.[87]
From: Bhajana-Rahasya
(1) The king of the heavens and a deity presiding over a region of the universe, known to offer reverence and offerings to Shri Krishna.[88]
From: Bharadvaja-srauta-sutra
(1) A principal deity invoked during the ritual, often associated with strength and blessings.[89] (2) A prominent Vedic deity, often associated with strength and the heavens, invoked for support against enemies.[90] (3) The king of gods in the Vedic pantheon, invoked specifically in sacrifices related to warriors.[91] (4) A prominent deity in Vedic texts, associated with strength and elevation.[92] (5) A significant deity invoked to assist the sacrificer by smiting adversaries and providing divine protection.[93]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) A deity to whom offerings are made, representing power and kingship in Hindu mythology.[94] (2) One of the eight guardian deities, often considered the king of heaven and associated with storms and rain.[95] (3) A prominent deity in Hindu mythology, associated with rain and thunderstorms, often considered the king of gods.[96]
From: Sankhayana-grihya-sutra
(1) A major deity associated with Jyeshtha.[97] (2) The king of the heavens and ruler of the thunder in Hindu mythology.[98] (3) A key Vedic god representing strength and storms, invoked to provide protection and maintain health during rituals.[99]
From: Hiranyakesi-grihya-sutra
(1) A prominent deity in Vedic literature, representing strength and power.[100]
From: Paraskara-grihya-sutra
(1) The king of gods in Hindu mythology, associated with rain, thunderstorms, and warfare.[101]
From: Asvalayana-grihya-sutra
(1) A prominent deity in Hindu mythology, often associated with rain, storms, and protection during sacrifices.[102]
From: Satapatha-brahmana
(1) Indra is invoked during the sacrifice, noted for the request to 'stand still for' him as part of the ritual.[103] (2) A deity to whom the midday Soma-service and the strengthening of vital airs through Dakshinas are attributed.[104] (3) A deity associated with offering the Vajapeya and achieving everything, notably linked to Prajapati.[105] (4) A prominent deity considered the same as the Ahavaniya fire; symbolizes power and authority.[106] (5) A deity symbolic of energy and vital power, represented in the evening-pressing and in the Aindra cup.[107]
From: Kena upanishad (Madhva commentary)
(1) The king of the Devas in Hindu mythology, often associated with thunder, rain, and warfare.[108] (2) A significant Deva who is credited with being the first to understand Brahman, thus becoming the best of all Devas.[109] (3) He (Indra) is depicted as meditating in the space where the Yaksha stood, highlighting his curiosity and engagement in seeking knowledge.[110]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad Bhashya Vartika
(1) A prominent deity associated with the world of the Viraj, signifying its importance in the cosmic hierarchy.[111] (2) A specific reference to a deity that is included in the ascending stages of happiness.[112]
From: Brihadaranyaka Upanishad
(1) A term used synonymously with God, particularly referring to the deified aspect of fire in sacrificial contexts, embodying strength or power.[113] (2) A name used indirectly to refer to the self or a vital being residing in the right eye, representing a higher state of consciousness.[114]
From: Thirty minor Upanishads
(1) A divine figure associated with rain and thunderstorms, recognized as Narayana.[115] (2) The king of the Devas, often associated with rain, thunderstorms, and war, representing strength and leadership.[116]
From: Vivekachudamani
(1) A significant deity in Hindu mythology, often regarded as the king of gods and associated with 'The Self' in the provided text.[117]
From: Siddhanta Sangraha of Sri Sailacharya
(1) A prominent deity among the gods, used in the text to illustrate how the divine ultimately points to the Supreme.[118]
From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)
(1) The king of the gods who warns Nagarjuna against his attempts to make humans immortal.[119] (2) The king of the gods who intervenes, disguised as a Brahman, to instruct Tapodatta on the futility of acquiring knowledge without study.[120] (3) The king of the gods who sends messengers and plays a pivotal role in guiding the characters.[121] (4) A significant deity within the story, representing authority, power, and traditional values, who reacts to the actions of the Apsaras.[122] (5) The king of gods who curses Kalavati and later reacts to the actions of Thinthakarala.[123]
From: Naishadha-charita of Shriharsha
(1) The king of the gods who desires Damayanti to choose him over Nala, representing divine power and authority.[124]
From: Dasarupaka (critical study)
(1) A major deity in Hindu mythology associated with rain and thunderstorms, mentioned in relation to a festival involving dramatic performances.[125] (2) The king of gods in the Samudramanthana, involved in the churning of the ocean.[126]
From: History of Indian Medicine (and Ayurveda)
(1) The king of the gods in Hindu mythology who is said to have imparted the science of life to various sages.[127]
From: Sushruta Samhita, volume 1: Sutrasthana
(1) The lord of the celestials, often referenced in contexts related to honor and piety in the Ayurvedic tradition.[128]
From: Brihat Samhita
(1) The king of the gods, who is requested to relieve the Earth of her grief.[129]
From: Amarakoshodghatana of Kshirasvamin (study)
(1) The king of gods, associated with the mythological attributes of bravery and sacrifice.[130]
From: Lakulisha-Pashupata (Philosophy and Practice)
(1) A major deity in Hindu mythology who sought to absolve himself of sin through the worship of Siva and the Eklingji linga.[131]
Jain concept of 'Indra'
Indra in Jainism symbolizes a collective of divine beings, primarily sixty-three, overseeing cosmic order, participating in sacred rituals, and honoring the Lord's presence, embodying respect, authority, and vital roles in significant spiritual events.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) The sixty-four divine beings who reacted to the Lord's presence, indicating their respect and sorrow.[132] (2) A principal deity in Hinduism, associated with rain, thunder, and the heavens, also referred to in grammatical references.[133] (3) Sixty-three deities who are part of the gathering at the mountain due to the shaking of their thrones.[134] (4) The king of the gods, who becomes involved after Ravana's actions.[135] (5) Celestial beings or divine kings who played a significant role in the events surrounding the birth of Siddhartha.[136]
From: Tattvartha Sutra (with commentary)
(1) The chief among the celestial beings, possessing supreme authority and powers.[137]
From: Bhagavati-sutra (Viyaha-pannatti)
(1) Divine entities that preside over various assemblies, each characterized by specific counts of gods and goddesses.[138]
The concept of 'Indra' in local and regional sources
Indra is the chief of gods in Hindu mythology, associated with rain and storms, embodying various roles in celestial narratives. He is also known as Purandar and linked to the creation narrative, influencing human affairs.
From: Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints
(1) The chief of gods, known for his numerous incarnations and involvement in various celestial narratives.[139] (2) The chief of gods, known as Purandar, who plays a key role in various Hindu texts.[140]
From: Village Folk-tales of Ceylon (Sri Lanka), vol. 1-3
(1) Another name for God Saman; a prominent deity who represents rain and thunderstorms, often involved in the human affairs in the creation narrative.[141]