Significance of Lord of All

The phrase "Lord of All" is a significant title in various religious contexts. In Jainism, it signifies unwavering loyalty to the Supreme Lord. Vaishnavism views it as a depiction of divine authority, referring to Gaurasundara and Vishnu as the ultimate overseer of the universe. In Purana, it can indicate various supreme beings, including Shiva and Vasudeva. Moreover, in Vedanta, "Lord of All" pertains to the ultimate self or Brahman, emphasizing its omnipotence and governance over existence. The concept underscores the supreme authority and recognition given across different traditions.

Synonyms: Sovereign, Ruler, Master, Monarch, Supreme being, Overlord, King of kings, Divine authority, Ultimate power, Almighty, Omnipotent

In Dutch: Heer van alles; In Finnish: Kaiken Herra; In Spanish: Señor de todo; In German: Herr über alles; In Malay: Tuhan Segala-galanya; In Swedish: Allas Herre; In French: Seigneur de tous; In Portugese: Senhor de Tudo; In Italian: Signore di tutto; In Polish: Pan Wszystkiego

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Buddhist concept of 'Lord of All'

Buddhism Books

In Buddhism, "Lord of All" is used to refer to Sakka. In the text, a charioteer questions whether the prince is Sakka, implying that Sakka is considered the "Lord of All."

Significance in Theravada (major branch of Buddhism):
Theravada Books

From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6

(1) The charioteer asked if the prince was Sakka, the lord of all.[1]

Theravada is a major branch of Buddhism having the the Pali canon (tipitaka) as their canonical literature, which includes the vinaya-pitaka (monastic rules), the sutta-pitaka (Buddhist sermons) and the abhidhamma-pitaka (philosophy and psychology).

Hindu concept of 'Lord of All'

Hinduism Books

In Hinduism, "Lord of All" signifies a title denoting supreme authority, encompassing figures like Shiva and Vishnu, representing their dominion over all beings and elements, emphasizing their roles as protectors and creators within the universe.

Significance in Purana and Itihasa (epic history):
Purana Books

From: Mahabharata (English)

(1) The Lord of all is a title used to address Brahma, signifying his supreme authority and dominion over all creation.[2] (2) Mahadeva is described as the Lord of all the ghostly beings, similar to Vyasa surrounded by his disciples.[3] (3) Lord of all is the term used to describe Siva, who poured libations into his own self, which shows his central role in the sacrifice.[4] (4) This is the person who is compassionate to those devoted to them, and upon whom rests the happiness of all.[5] (5) This refers to a person who is considered the ruler of all creatures, and upon whom the universe's events depend.[6]

From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Griffith)

(1) A figure of supreme authority and power, signifying dominance and control over everything.[7] (2) The text states that Rama was the lord of all the realm by right, who pursued his flight through Kosala.[8] (3) This refers to Fate, which controls everything, emphasizing the idea that all events are determined by a higher power.[9] (4) This is a title given to the self-existent being who addressed the Gods, setting the stage for the events and actions described in the text.[10] (5) Lakshman suggests that a higher power might have influenced the situation, potentially sanctioning the exile.[11]

From: Devi Bhagavata Purana

(1) This is a description of Shambhu, emphasizing his supreme status and dominion over all creation, and is the Progenitor of all.[12] (2) A title or status granted to a character, signifying supreme authority and power over the universe.[13] (3) A title for Shiva that underscores his supreme and tranquil nature, devoid of desires and attachments, embodying the essence of calmness.[14] (4) A title attributed to Vishnu, acknowledging His supreme authority over the universe.[15] (5) A title for Bhagavan, emphasizing His supreme power and authority over everything.[16]

From: Garuda Purana

(1) This is a specific aspect of the god, which should be worshipped with the Mantram, as per the instructions provided in the text.[17] (2) This refers to the god Vasudeva, who is the subject of a hymn and is described as the absolver of all sin, as well as the lord of all the gods.[18] (3) Affirms Vishnu's supremacy and his relationship with all creation and deities.[19] (4) A title referring to Vishnu, who is recognized as the destroyer of sins.[20]

From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Shastri)

(1) A title given to Rama, who is revered for his many virtues including wisdom, valor, and a commitment to justice.[21]

From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4

(1) A metaphor for ultimate spiritual authority and mastery over one’s mind and desires.[22]

From: Markandeya Purana

(1) The lord of all the Daitya folk, approaching the goddess, was pierced in the breast with a dart and felled to the earth.[23]

From: Brihaddharma Purana (abridged)

(1) The lord of all refers to Siva, whom Sati describes as pervading all beings as their soul, emphasizing his supreme and universal nature.[24]

The Purana refers to Sanskrit literature preserving ancient India’s vast cultural history, including historical legends, religious ceremonies, various arts and sciences. The eighteen mahapuranas total over 400,000 shlokas (metrical couplets) and date to at least several centuries BCE.

Significance in Vedanta (school of philosophy):
Vedanta Books

From: Brahma Sutras (Ramanuja)

(1) A term designating the supreme authority and ruler over everything; embodies mastery and protection.[25] (2) The title 'Lord of all' signifies the highest authority over all things, reinforcing Brahman's position as the supreme protector.[26] (3) Title that signifies the supreme power and protective role of the highest Person over all beings.[27] (4) A description emphasizing Brahman's dominion and authority over everything in existence.[28] (5) A designation for the highest Self that emphasizes its supreme authority and control over all beings and realities.[29]

From: Brahma Sutras (Shankaracharya)

(1) This phrase represents a specific attribute mentioned in the Brihad-aranyaka, describing the Self and the attributes which are not mentioned in the Agnirahasya.[30] (2) The Lord of all is the king of all things and the protector of all things, free from all limiting distinctions, unlike the beings in the sun or eye.[31] (3) The Lord of all is a term that is used to describe the highest Lord, and it is included in the chapter to set forth the nature of the non-transmigrating Self.[32] (4) Refers to the supreme being who governs and protects all entities and realms.[33]

From: Prashna Upanishad with Shankara’s Commentary

(1) The entity, being the lord of all created beings and things, immoveable and moveable, revolved in his mind the knowledge acquired in the previous birth.[34] (2) An assertion of supremacy and guardianship over all creatures and forms of life.[35] (3) Refers to Paramesvara, indicating a supreme deity who governs everything.[36] (4) Describes Prana as the governing power over all that exists, signifying its dominance in the universe.[37]

From: Mandukya Upanishad (Madhva commentary)

(1) The Supreme Being who has authority and knowledge over all existence.[38] (2) A title describing the supreme authority attributed to Hari, relevant throughout the definitions.[39]

From: Thirty minor Upanishads

(1) Denotes the supreme authority and encompassing nature of the Atma, as it exists beyond all forms.[40] (2) The supreme being or entity that rules over all existence.[41]

From: Katha Upanishad with Shankara’s Commentary

(1) A title denoting Brahman's supremacy and control over the universe and all its forces.[42] (2) Refers to the supreme being or controller that oversees and permeates all existence.[43]

From: Brihadaranyaka Upanishad

(1) Brahman is described as the supreme ruler, governing everything in existence, indicating his omnipotence and overarching presence.[44]

From: Mandukya Upanishad (Gaudapa Karika and Shankara Bhashya)

(1) Refers to the ultimate divine entity who is the source of everything in the universe, embodying omniscience and control over all beings.[45]

From: Mundaka Upanishad with Shankara’s Commentary

(1) The Lord of all is the entity that shines with luminosity and is responsible for the illumination of the universe.[46]

From: Isopanisad (Madhva commentary)

(1) Refers to a divine being who transcends all, holding dominion and power over other deities and spirits.[47]

From: Taittiriya Upanishad Bhashya Vartika

(1) This term represents the syllable Om, and it holds dominion over every desire that exists within the world, emphasizing its extensive influence.[48]

Vedanta refers to a school of orthodox Hindu philosophy (astika), drawing its subject-matter from the Upanishads. There are a number of sub-schools of Vedanta, however all of them expound on the basic teaching of the ultimate reality (brahman) and liberation (moksha) of the individual soul (atman).

Significance in Vaishnavism (Vaishava dharma):
Vaishnavism Books

From: Chaitanya Bhagavata

(1) This describes the entity, who is the personification of all offerings, and there is no chance of associating any impurity or fault with the spiritual form, as the text indicates.[49] (2) This is a reference to Vishvambhara, who is also the Lord of all Vaishnavas and the object of all devotional practices, as mentioned in the text.[50] (3) This refers to the supreme authority and ruler, possessing dominion and control over every celestial body, including all the planets and their respective domains.[51] (4) The individual is the leader of all planets and living entities, indicating a position of authority and care for all beings, worthy of adoration and recognition, as stated.[52] (5) A reference to a divine being or authority who oversees and governs all living entities.[53]

From: Garga Samhita (English)

(1) Describes a supreme being encompassing everything.[54]

From: Sri Krishna-Chaitanya

(1) The Lord said, 'I am the Lord of all the worlds; I uphold the world, whence My name is Vishwambhar,' as mentioned in the text.[55]

From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)

(1) Lord of all the worlds is a being seen by Shri Gopa-kumara.[56]

Vaishnava or vaishnavism (vaishnavism) represents a tradition of Hinduism worshipping Vishnu as the supreme Lord. Similar to the Shaktism and Shaivism traditions, Vaishnavism also developed as an individual movement, famous for its exposition of the dashavatara (‘ten avatars of Vishnu’).

Significance in Vyakarana (Sanskrit grammar):
Vyakarana Books

From: Vakyapadiya of Bhartrihari

(1) A title denoting the ultimate authority or supreme being who embodies all powers and transformations.[57] (2) A divine entity described as embracing everything and capable of creating many different things.[58]

Vyakarana refers to Sanskrit grammar and represents one of the six additional sciences (vedanga) to be studied along with the Vedas. Vyakarana concerns itself with the rules of Sanskrit grammar and linguistic analysis in order to establish the correct context of words and sentences.

Significance in Ayurveda (science of life):
Ayurveda Books

From: Charaka Samhita (English translation)

(1) An exaltation of Vayu, indicating its importance as a sustaining force for both life and the universe.[59]

Ayurveda is a branch of Indian science dealing with medicine, herbalism, taxology, anatomy, surgery, alchemy and related topics. Traditional practice of Ayurveda in ancient India dates back to at least the first millenium BC. Literature is commonly written in Sanskrit using various poetic metres.

Significance in Kavya (poetry):
Kavya Books

From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)

(1) The lord of all is Shiva, who arrives with Parvati and other deities to witness the battle, highlighting his divine presence and importance in the events unfolding.[60]

Kavya refers to Sanskrit poetry, a popular ancient Indian tradition of literature. There have been many Sanskrit poets over the ages, hailing from ancient India and beyond. This topic includes mahakavya, or ‘epic poetry’ and natya, or ‘dramatic poetry’.

Jain concept of 'Lord of All'

Jainism Books

In Jainism, "Lord of All" symbolizes the supreme being with ultimate authority in the spiritual hierarchy, representing unwavering loyalty and reverence, as adherents reject the idea of replacing this deity with any alternative.

Significance in Jainism (general):

From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra

(1) A metaphorical reference to the supreme being or deity, embodying ultimate authority and respect in the spiritual hierarchy.[61] (2) Represents the Supreme Lord whom they refuse to replace with any other, emphasizing loyalty.[62]

Jainism is an Indian religion of Dharma whose doctrine revolves around harmlessness (ahimsa) towards every living being. The two major branches (Digambara and Svetambara) of Jainism stimulate self-control (or, shramana, ‘self-reliance’) and spiritual development through a path of peace for the soul to progess to the ultimate goal.

The concept of Lord of All in local and regional sources

History Books

"Lord of All" signifies Krishna's absolute supremacy and authority over all beings, embodying the ultimate ruler concept. This title reflects universal sovereignty, emphasizing a non-personal divine essence that transcends individual identities and encompasses all religions and existence.

Significance in India history and geography:

From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda

(1) This phrase describes the highest principle, which is said to not be a Person and is further elaborated upon in the provided text.[63] (2) This phrase indicates a position of supreme authority and dominion over everything, emphasizing the subject's absolute control and influence.[64] (3) Mohammed stated that God is the Lord of all that exists, emphasizing the concept of a single God and rejecting any comparisons to others.[65] (4) This is the idea that belongs to India alone, which is the belief that the Lord is the Lord of all religions.[66] (5) The text clarifies that this entity cannot be a particular individual but must represent the sum total of all things, as described in the provided text.[67]

From: Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints

(1) This title describes the Lord as the ultimate authority and ruler, suggesting a position of supreme power and dominion over all things, and implying a universal sovereignty and encompassing control.[68] (2) A title that signifies a supreme status over all beings and entities in existence.[69] (3) A title that emphasizes Krishna's supremacy over all beings.[70]

Classical concept of 'Lord of All'

Various literature Books

Meaning of Lord of All in Ancient Egyptian mythology, history and philosophy:
Egypt Books

From: Legends Of The Gods

(1) A voice was heard saying this upon the birth of Osiris. Some say Pamyles was commanded to proclaim this.[71]

From: Ancient Egypt the Light of the World

(1) Is saluted as the one who made the double earth and placed throne in the life of the double earth, with the secret in the depths of secret and unknown waters.[72]

From: The Literature of the Ancient Egyptians

(1) The Egyptian Christians, or Copts, in their religious writings use the name Nebertcher as an equivalent of God Almighty, the Lord of All, the God of the Universe.[73]

From: The Book of the Dead

(1) This is the first bidding of Osiris, the Lord of All, who hath completed all his hidden works.[74]

Egypt was an ancient civilization ruled by pharaohs that left behind an extensive cultural heritage and mythology. The Egyptians build the Pyramids of Giza and various temples of great size. Located in North Africa, part of this civilization’s success is the effective use of the River Nile. Their religious pantheon included many Gods dispersed over various belief systems, philosophies and cults.

Meaning of Lord of All in Ancient Greek mythology, history and philosophy:
Greek Books

From: The Odyssey of Homer (English translation)

(1) Jove is described as the lord of all, to whom Ulysses sacrificed the ram's thigh bones, acknowledging his power and seeking his favor.[75]

Ancient Greece in the Archaic Period was made up from independent states, called Polis, or city state. Classical Greek culture, especially philosophy, had a powerful influence on the Roman Empire. Greek mythology consists of stories belonging to the ancient Greeks concerning their Gods and heroes, the nature of the world and the origins and significance of their religious practices.