Significance of Narada
In Jainism, Narada is depicted as a celestial sage recognized for his wisdom and role as a messenger among gods and mortals. He is characterized by his unwelcomed arrival, eager observations of human activities, and interactions that influence significant events, such as the relationship dynamics between Krishna and Rukmini. Throughout various texts, Narada embodies various traits: from a counselor to a divine messenger, highlighting his integral role in spiritual guidance and the dissemination of wisdom within the narratives.
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The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Narada'
Narada in Buddhism symbolizes wisdom and guidance, serving various roles such as an ascetic advising Mahajanaka, a Brahma deity conveying truth, and a minister facilitating communication, while also potentially indicating authorship in written contexts.
From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) An ascetic who provides wisdom and counsel to Mahajanaka, emphasizing the importance of seeking guidance on the journey toward enlightenment.[1] (2) A Brahma deity who symbolizes wisdom and is sought to impart truth and guidance to those around him.[2] (3) A minister who served as a messenger representing the communication of thoughts and actions between different characters.[3] (4) The king's descendant who prepared to welcome King Sadhina back to the mortal realm upon his return.[4]
From: A Manual of Abhidhamma
(1) The signature or the name of the person writing the letter, indicating authorship.[5]
Hindu concept of 'Narada'
Narada, in Hinduism, is a revered celestial sage renowned for his wisdom, music, and unwavering devotion to Krishna, serving as a crucial messenger and guide across divine realms, emphasizing spiritual teachings and relationships among celestial beings.
From: Skanda Purana
(1) A holy sage who witnesses the events between Shiva and Parvati, characterized by his divine vision and insightful commentary.[6] (2) The holy sage who communicates Taraka's words and reassures the Devas about their victory.[7] (3) A great sage who sang a poem in praise of the events surrounding Mudgala’s story.[8] (4) A sage speaking in the text who discusses the nature of God and devotion.[9] (5) A great sage, son of Brahma, who provides guidance and advice to King Pashupala on how to overcome his afflictions.[10]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) A sage who expresses his desire to hear more of the wonderful story recited.[11] (2) A sage who is hearing anecdotes about various Devis and is interested in learning more about their lives.[12] (3) The sage who inquired about the descent of Maha Lakshmi, seeking detailed knowledge from Narayana.[13] (4) The sage to whom Narayana is speaking, serving as the audience for the divine narrative.[14] (5) A celestial sage in Hindu mythology who plays a key role in the conveyance of spiritual knowledge.[15]
From: Padma Purana
(1) The sage who narrates the events concerning Jalandhara's conflict with Shiva.[16] (2) The sage who brought the hymn to the righteous people on earth.[17] (3) A sage known for his wisdom and teachings within the context of the narrative.[18] (4) A sage who assures Kamala about the return of her son, Prahlada, in a better form.[19] (5) The sage who inquires about the Tulasi vow and shares the spiritual wisdom regarding it.[20]
From: Brihaddharma Purana (abridged)
(1) The sage who is referred to for advice regarding a decision between Siva and Narayana.[21] (2) A sage who offers guidance to Lakshmi on how to properly worship Siva.[22] (3) A sage who proposed Vyasa for the task of composing the Mahabharata.[23] (4) The sage who informs King Sagara about the fate of his sons after they failed to return from searching for the horse.[24] (5) A divine sage deputed by Brahma to deliver the news of Sati's death to Siva.[25]
From: Bhagavata Purana
(1) A celestial sage known for his musical talents and knowledge of Krishna's exploits; acts as a messenger and instigator of divine narratives.[26] (2) A sage acknowledged for his wisdom, praised by gods and demons alike, who imparts knowledge to the Pracetasas.[27] (3) A sage referenced as having described the divine marks that identify Krishna.[28] (4) A celestial sage who plays a pivotal role in guiding Priyavrata towards spiritual enlightenment.[29] (5) A divine sage who plays a key role in guiding Dhruva on his path of devotion and meditation.[30]
From: Shiva Purana
(1) A sage who observes and interacts with Daksha's sons, offering guidance on creation and respecting their efforts.[31] (2) A sage who remained impartial and provided insights during the conflict, recognized as a follower of Shiva.[32] (3) A sage whose authority and suggestion encourage Parvati to undertake her long penance with the aim to win over lord Shiva.[33] (4) A sage who inquires about the creation process and serves as a catalyst for the narration of the sacred stories.[34]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) The foremost of men who engages in worship and is characterized by devotion, truthfulness, and adherence to scriptural rules.[35] (2) A wandering celestial sage who provides information about Samvarta to Marutta.[36] (3) A celestial Rishi known for his love of music and dance, who conveys crucial information about the fall of heroes to Rama.[37]
From: Gautami Mahatmya
(1) A divine sage mentioned as a listener and participant in the discussions surrounding Karman.[38] (2) The name of the sage referred to during the recounting of the story.[39] (3) A divine sage who advised the six women to seek Karttikeya for relief from their distress and the promise of worldly pleasures.[40]
From: Brahmanda Purana
(1) A notable Gandharva mentioned in the text, recognized for his roles among celestial beings.[41] (2) The third mountain, described as high and unscalable, noted for the birth of Narada and Parvata.[42]
From: Vishnu Purana (Taylor)
(1) A sage who has traveled to the lower realms and described their magnificence compared to the upper realms.[43] (2) A mountain range that is part of the borders of the regions in Plakshadvipa.[44]
From: Markandeya Purana (Study)
(1) A sage in the Mahabharata who receives the teachings from Lord Vishnu about knowledge and freedom.[45]
From: Anugita (English translation)
(1) The figure who engages in a dialogue with the sage Devamata about the origins of life and the existence of life-winds.[46]
From: Vishnu Purana
(1) A divine sage who instigates Raji's sons to assert their claim for power after Raji's ascension.[47]
From: Linga Purana
(1) A sage who was made equal to Tumburu by lord Narayana and recognized for his leading role.[48]
From: Markandeya Purana
(1) A divine sage and musician who interacts with Indra and the Apsarases in a discussion about beauty and qualities.[49]
From: Lalitopakhyana (Lalita Mahatmya)
(1) A holy sage who approached the goddess, recognizing her supreme power and authority.[50]
From: Harivamsha Purana
(1) The celestial songster and messenger of the king of gods, sent to remind Pradyumna of his divine origins and provide him with weapons.[51]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) A divine sage in Hindu mythology known for spreading the glories of Krishna.[52] (2) A prominent sage in Hindu scriptures whose teachings are compiled in the Satvata Pancaratras, influencing Vaishnava practices.[53] (3) A revered sage in Hindu tradition, known for his devotion and divine wisdom.[54] (4) A character who seemed to have personally appeared at the location.[55] (5) A celestial sage known for his wisdom and interactions with the divine, mentioned in the context of the sale of Krishna.[56]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) A significant figure in the narrative who expresses profound emotions and acts upon the revelation of Uddhava's fortune.[57] (2) Shri Narada is a divine sage whose words are challenged by Indra regarding the authority and rulership over Surya and other celestial beings.[58] (3) A character in the text who is being addressed by Shri Mahadeva, uncertain about the whereabouts of Shri Krishna.[59] (4) A sage who travels to the kingdom to see the king after hearing about the situation there.[60] (5) Refers to Shri Narada, a humble and dear servant of Bhagavan, depicted as an ocean of the mellows of shri-hari-bhakti.[61]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) The character referred to as the king of sages known for his wisdom and devotion.[62] (2) A character addressed by Lord Brahma, referred to as a very intelligent one.[63] (3) A sage or celestial being known for his wisdom and knowledge, referred to as narada.[64] (4) A celestial sage who receives musical lessons from Goddess Sarasvati.[65] (5) A character who is very kind to the distressed, mentioned in the context of seeking mercy.[66]
From: Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu
(1) A sage in the text who observes the interaction between Krishna and his fears, representing wisdom and amusement.[67] (2) A character who experiences profound emotional turmoil as he navigates his feelings of love.[68] (3) A sage who provided instructions to the old carpenter, leading him to worship Krishna.[69] (4) A sage figure mentioned in the text, representing the audience for the promise being discussed.[70] (5) A divine sage and musician known for his devotion to Krishna and his ability to spread spiritual wisdom through music.[71]
From: Chaitanya Mangala
(1) A sage and traveler who witnesses the decline of spiritual practices and is instructed by Lord Jagannatha.[72] (2) A sage who provides comfort and wisdom to King Uttanapada, reassuring him about Dhruva's fate and devotion.[73]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) A scholar whose perspective on the division of guilt in wrongful acts is cited in the text.[74] (2) An authoritative figure whose texts provide guidance and rules regarding marriage and the obligations involved.[75] (3) A sage mentioned in the text who lays down various rules regarding the punishments for different crimes and castes.[76] (4) An authority indicating that a low-born man who offends a Brahmana with any limb will face severe punishment by the amputation of that limb.[77] (5) A figure referenced within ancient texts, who emphasizes the importance of showing honour to Brahmanas as a source of prosperity.[78]
From: Yajnavalkya-smriti (Vyavaharadhyaya)—Critical study
(1) Another ancient legal authority who refers to the concept of samaya in discussing law.[79] (2) Another ancient legal authority who referenced the same forms of ordeals cited by Yajnavalkya but with slight variations in the details of their performance.[80] (3) A legal authority whose codes and interpretations support the concepts and rules articulated in vyavaharamatrika.[81] (4) Another legal scholar who provides classifications similar to those found in Manusmriti regarding vyavaharapadas.[82]
From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)
(1) The hermit who delivers a warning from Indra to King Candraprabha regarding the dangers of seeking Suryaprabha's elevation to emperor.[83] (2) A divine man who came to inform the King about the protection of his son by the god Shiva.[84] (3) A divine sage sent by Vishnu to convey a command and assist King Pururavas in overcoming his separation from Urvashi.[85] (4) A hermit who provides guidance and counsel, hinting at future success despite current challenges.[86]
From: Dvisahasri of Tembesvami (Summary and Study)
(1) A sage who arrives in response to the king's query, represents divine knowledge and wisdom.[87]
From: Narayaniya (Narayaneeyam)
(1) A son of Parameshthin known for his prowess and divine encounters, particularly with Narayana.[88] (2) A devotee who queries the deeper truths and is involved in practices of fierce austerities.[89] (3) A divine sage who plays a significant role in the Narayaniya by inquiring about Narayana and seeking understanding of the One Being.[90]
From: Parama Samhita (English translation)
(1) One of the principal exponents of the teachings of the Pancaratra, contributing to the Bhakti Sutras.[91]
From: Chandogya Upanishad (english Translation)
(1) Narada is the person seeking spiritual teaching from Sanatkumara, indicating his quest for knowledge.[92]
From: Thirty minor Upanishads
(1) The ornament of Parivrajakas who roamed over various worlds and imparted religious merits through observation.[93]
From: Brahma Sutras (Ramanuja)
(1) A sage who seeks understanding from Sanatkumara regarding the nature of Self and engages in a dialogue exploring the hierarchy of existence.[94]
From: Natyashastra (English)
(1) Considered the earliest writer on music, mentioned in later literature, and associated with the ancient work 'Shiksha' that discusses musical theories and practices.[95]
From: Dasarupaka (critical study)
(1) A character whose interactions and emotions are depicted in the introductory scenes of the Tripuradaha.[96]
From: Shishupala-vadha (Study)
(1) A celestial sage known for his role as a messenger and his capability to traverse freely between different realms.[97] (2) A divine sage who plays a crucial role in communicating significant messages and prophecies in the Shishupalavadha.[98]
From: Vastu-shastra (Introduction to Indian architecture)
(1) One of the Puranas that discusses architectural and cultural themes in its own format.[99]
From: Sahitya-kaumudi by Baladeva Vidyabhushana
(1) A celestial sage and devotee in Hindu tradition, known for spreading knowledge and devotion.[100]
Jain concept of 'Narada'
Narada in Jainism is depicted as a divine, wise sage who interacts with mortals, investigates sorrow, and shares insights. He influences key events, supports lineage continuation, and navigates relationships among celestial figures.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) A celestial sage who roams the worlds and is known for sharing wisdom and insights.[101] (2) A character who suggests to king Ratnaratha that his daughter is worthy of Lakshmana.[102] (3) A character who learns about the protagonist’s son and rejoices, indicating the continuation of her lineage.[103] (4) A noun referring to a 'rakshasa,' noted with reference context.[104] (5) A divine sage and wandering saint who interacts with mortal beings and is known for his wisdom and knowledge.[105]
The concept of Narada in local and regional sources
Narada is a divine sage and messenger of the gods, playing a significant role in various mythological narratives, emphasizing his importance in Hinduism and his involvement in communicating divine knowledge and guidance.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) A divine sage and the messenger of the gods, known for his role in various mythological narratives.[106]