Significance of Lord of the Devas
The keyphrase "Lord of the Devas" encompasses various titles and representations within Hindu and Buddhist traditions. In Hinduism, it primarily refers to Indra, the king of the gods and protector of divine beings, highlighting his authority and influence among celestial entities. It can also refer to other deities like Shiva and Mahadeva, emphasizing their supreme positions within the divine hierarchy. In Buddhism, it is associated with Sakka, a significant deity who engages with moral and virtuous challenges.
Synonyms: God of the gods, Supreme being, King of the gods
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 the Devas'
In Buddhism, the Lord of the Devas, or Shakra, is a celestial figure who challenges the king's character and charity through tests and disguises, playing a significant role in Buddhist cosmology and narratives like Deva Gopaka.
From: The Mahavastu (great story)
(1) Shakra, the chief deity among the Trayastrimsha devas.[1] (2) Refers to Shakra, a powerful deity who provides aid to Anangana in preparing for the meal for the Exalted One.[2] (3) Referring to Shakra, a celestial being who tests the king's virtue and intentions regarding charity.[3] (4) A divine being, specifically named Shakra, who tests the king of the deer through disguises and challenges relating to wisdom.[4]
From: The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) Sakka, a significant deity in the Buddhist cosmology, who relates the story of Deva Gopaka to the Buddha.[5]
Hindu concept of 'Lord of the Devas'
The term "Lord of the Devas" in Hinduism primarily refers to Indra, the king of the gods, highlighting his leadership and authority over celestial beings, while also encompassing roles attributed to deities like Shiva, Mahadeva, and Narayana.
From: The Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) Refers to Lord Vishnu, highlighting his supremacy among the celestial beings.[6] (2) Refers to Indra, the king of the gods, who provides advice and support to Shaci amidst her troubles.[7] (3) A title referring to Shri Krishna, acknowledged as the supreme deity overseeing all demigods.[8] (4) Refers to Indra, who holds supremacy among the Devas and is revered for his power and capabilities.[9] (5) Indra, the chief deity and ruler of the other gods, called an assembly to discuss the threat posed by Mahisha.[10]
From: The Skanda Purana
(1) A title referring to the deity who governs the celestial beings and oversees their activities.[11] (2) A title for Shiva that indicates his supreme position among the divine beings.[12] (3) Refers to Maheshvara, who is consulted by the Suras regarding their defeat by the Daityas.[13] (4) A reference to a prominent deity among the gods, often associated with Shiva.[14] (5) Refers to the supreme divine being revered by all gods, often associated with ultimate control and power over creation.[15]
From: The Brahmanda Purana
(1) Suta refers to Nilalohita as the lord of the Devas, indicating a position of high authority among the celestial beings.[16] (2) Referring to Shiva, who is considered the supreme being among the gods and the central figure in the narrative.[17] (3) A title for a deity revered by the Devas, reflecting their supreme authority and power among celestial beings.[18] (4) A title referring to Indra, recognized as the leader and protector of divine beings.[19] (5) A title conferred upon Mahadeva indicating his supremacy over other divine beings.[20]
From: The Gautami Mahatmya
(1) The place where the Lord of the Devas stayed is remembered as Devatirtha.[21]
From: Lalitopakhyana (Lalita Mahatmya)
(1) Refers to Indra, who rules and protects the three worlds of Devas, Asuras, and humans.[22]
From: The Linga Purana
(1) A title for the Supreme Lord, highlighting his authority and leadership over the deity beings.[23]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) Another title for Indra, emphasizing his supreme position among the gods and his role in overseeing sacrifices.[24]
From: Mundaka Upanishad with Shankara’s Commentary
(1) Refers to Indra, who is described as the sole sovereign over the heavenly realm and the ultimate recipient of these offerings.[25]
From: Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu
(1) A title for the divine being addressed in the prayer, signifying His supreme status among celestial beings.[26]
From: Shaiva Upanishads (A Critical Study)
(1) The divine ruler who oversees the deities in the cosmic order.[27]