Significance of King Janaka
In Dutch: Koning Janaka; In Finnish: Kuningas Janaka; In Spanish: Rey Janaka
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'King Janaka'
King Janaka in Buddhism is interpreted as a wise ruler from Benares who values both spiritual and temporal knowledge, exemplifying the integration of wisdom in leadership. He is revered in both Buddhist and Hindu traditions.
From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) A ruler in Benares who appoints young Senaka as his minister and learns from him about spiritual and temporal matters.[1] (2) A historical or mythical figure associated with wisdom and leadership, often revered in Buddhist and Hindu texts.[2]
Hindu concept of 'King Janaka'
King Janaka, a revered figure in Hinduism, is noted for his wisdom, virtuous character, and role as Sita's father. He exemplifies the balance between spiritual knowledge and worldly duties, while governing the kingdom of Mithila with justice.
From: Ramayana of Valmiki
(1) The father of Sita, to whom she refers as having adorned her with jewels.[3] (2) Sita's father, referenced in the context of her identity and royal lineage.[4] (3) A character who honors Vishvamitra, expressing gratitude for his presence and acknowledging the sage's significance.[5] (4) The righteous King of Mithila who is performing a holy sacrifice.[6] (5) The king of Mithilapuri, the capital visited by Shri Ramacandra and Lakshmana.[7]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) The ruler who hosted the sacrificial ceremony attended by Svetaketu and Ashtavakra, serving as a backdrop for the events.[8] (2) The ruler of Mithila, known for his justice and adherence to virtuous governance.[9] (3) The ruler whose words prompted Suka of cleansed soul to embark on a journey towards self-discovery.[10] (4) A wise ruler known for his knowledge of spirituality and Emancipation, representing an ideal balance of worldly power and spiritual wisdom.[11] (5) A prominent king known for his wisdom and as a patron of learning and discourse, mentioned as a central figure in the narrative.[12]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) The ruler of the kingdom of Videha, noted for governing without inflicting punishment, which raises questions about the preservation of virtue.[13] (2) The son of King Nimi, known for building the city Janakapuri and for being renowned for his wisdom and virtues.[14] (3) A legendary king known for his wisdom and liberation while ruling, often depicted as an ideal example of a Jivanmukta.[15] (4) The ruler mentioned in the text, known for his wisdom and ability to govern without attachment or fear of worldly bonds.[16] (5) The king of Mithila who vowed to marry his daughter Sita to whoever could break the bow of Shiva.[17]
From: Padma Purana
(1) The ruler who interrogates Yama about the reasons for his arrival in hell, displaying concern for his sins.[18] (2) The ruler of Mithila known for his pleasing governance and righteous rule over his subjects.[19] (3) Sita's father, who challenged Rama with the divine bow as a test to win his daughter.[20]
From: Brihaddharma Purana (abridged)
(1) The ruler who received the Munis with respect and inquired about the purpose of their visit.[21] (2) The ruler referred to by Brahma for determining which sage will undertake certain works, emphasizing the role of authority in decision-making among the sages.[22] (3) The ruler of Mithila who was impressed by Rama's strength and invited King Dasaratha and his sons.[23]
From: Laghu-yoga-vasistha
(1) An enlightened individual who exemplifies a deep understanding of the non-dual reality, perceiving the truth through subtle intelligence.[24] (2) A king known for his wisdom and enlightenment, who serves as an example of the journey towards Atma-jnana and liberation.[25]
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) King Janaka is an exemplar of attaining spiritual knowledge while actively engaging in worldly duties.[26]
From: Anugita (English translation)
(1) A ruler who engaged in a dialogue with a Brahmana, reflecting on the nature of dominion and self.[27]
From: Brahma Purana
(1) A wise ruler who is depicted as a seeker of spiritual knowledge and engages in discourse with sage Vasishtha.[28]
From: Brahmanda Purana
(1) An excellent king born in the family of Nimi, noted for his virtues and rulership.[29]
From: Gautami Mahatmya
(1) A king born in the solar dynasty who was married to Gunarnava and sought knowledge of salvation.[30]
From: Vishnu Purana (Taylor)
(1) The ruler of Videha who welcomed Balarama during his time away from Dvaraka.[31]
From: Agni Purana
(1) The king who presented his daughter Sita to Rama as a prize for breaking the bow.[32]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) The King of Videha, known for obtaining a self-manifest daughter, Sita, while plowing land for a sacrificial performance.[33]
From: Tiruvaymoli (Thiruvaimozhi): English translation
(1) A historical figure exemplifying true renunciation and detachment, unaffected by worldly illusions.[34]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) The king who is the father of Sita, emblematic of righteousness and virtue.[35]
From: Ashtavakra Gita
(1) A ruler known for his wisdom and humility, who becomes a disciple of the crippled boy Ashtavakra.[36]
From: Yajnavalkya-smriti (Vyavaharadhyaya)—Critical study
(1) A historical figure with whom Yajnavalkya had significant dialogues regarding sacrifice and philosophical knowledge.[37]
From: Hanuman Nataka (critical study)
(1) The king who organized the svayamvara for his daughter Sita.[38]
Jain concept of 'King Janaka'
In Jainism, King Janaka is depicted as a proactive ruler who, upon receiving significant news from Narada, takes decisive actions for his kingdom's welfare, and as Sita's father, he responds joyfully to revelations about Bhamandala.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) A character who receives news from Narada and takes drastic actions regarding his kingdom and the safety of his lineage.[39] (2) The father of Sita, who is informed about the identity of Bhamandala and reacts joyfully.[40]
The concept of King Janaka in local and regional sources
King Janaka is portrayed as a significant figure in both the Ramayana and ancient Indian texts, symbolizing philosophical leadership, fostering learning, and promoting scholarly discussions, highlighting his role as a wise and enlightened ruler.
From: Formal Education System in Ancient India
(1) A patron of learning who organized debates and discussions in his court, known for offering prizes to scholars.[41] (2) A historical figure known for fostering learning by developing the Pancala Parishad and engaging scholars in discussions.[42]
From: Triveni Journal
(1) A reference to a wise king in ancient Indian texts, symbolizing a model of philosophical leadership.[43] (2) A character in the Ramayana who persuades Rama to return to his rightful place as king.[44]