Significance of Lord Balarama
Lord Balarama is a significant figure in Vaishnavism, recognized as the elder brother of Lord Krishna and often associated with strength and agricultural pursuits. He is an incarnation of God, depicted as having a fair complexion and wielding a plow and club, symbolizing agricultural prosperity. Balarama serves pivotal roles in supporting Krishna's divine pastimes and is worshiped for the blessings he bestows on devotees. His importance in Hindu mythology is emphasized through various attributes, including his strength, valor, and connection to divine grace.
Synonyms: Balarama, Bala, Baladeva, Balaram, Balabhadra, Haladhara, Halayudha
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Lord Balarama'
Lord Balarama in Hinduism is portrayed as the Supreme Personality of Godhead, elder brother of Lord Krishna, known for his strength, agricultural prosperity, and divine pastimes, embodying valor and blessings in various mythological narratives.
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) A reference to a significant deity, known for strength and service, in the text.[1] (2) The angry figure striking the demons' army with power.[2] (3) The elder brother of Lord Krishna, who is mentioned as having been given permission before Krishna departed.[3] (4) A prominent deity known as the elder brother of Lord Krishna, associated with strength and ploughing.[4] (5) The Supreme Personality of Godhead who is the central figure in the provided text.[5]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) A character in the text, revered for His association with the cowherd girls during the rasa dance, illustrating a paradox in the societal views on interactions with women.[6] (2) The elder brother of Krishna who is recognized for having his own group of gopi friends.[7] (3) The worshiped figure whose feet the speaker desires to worship birth after birth.[8] (4) A significant figure in the text, referred to as the one who drank water offered by devotees.[9] (5) Lord Balarama is described as having thousands of hoods and is noted for all his extraordinary activities.[10]
From: Chaitanya Mangala
(1) The divine figure whose mood was assumed by Lord Gaura, symbolizing mercy and ecstatic bliss.[11] (2) Another incarnation who took birth to support the activities of the avataras and is identified with Lord Ananta.[12] (3) An embodiment of strength and service, known for his divine pastimes and interactions with Lord Krishna, as well as his nurturing role in cosmic order.[13] (4) An incarnation of Lord Krishna known for His strong devotion and connection to Lord Gaura, represented in the story.[14]
From: Bhagavata Purana
(1) The brother of Krishna whose life and deeds are detailed in the text.[15] (2) The glorious and eager deity who desired to see his friends and well-wishers in Vraja and is regarded as the protector of his community along with his younger brother Krishna.[16] (3) Krishna's elder brother who laughed at the cowherds' distress but remained silent about Krishna's safety.[17]