Significance of Noble family
The term "Noble family" signifies a lineage characterized by high moral values, spiritual awakening, and societal respect across various traditions. In Buddhism, it denotes individuals with the potential for enlightenment and the practice of bodhicitta. Jainism associates it with noble conduct resulting from virtuous karma. In South Asian contexts, it emphasizes high social standing, often linked to marriage considerations and moral integrity. The term reflects a lineage esteemed for its ethical conduct, character, and spiritual significance in many cultural frameworks.
Synonyms: Aristocratic family, Gentry, Noble lineage, Noble house
In Dutch: Adellijke familie; In Finnish: Jalo perhe; In Spanish: Familia noble
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Noble family'
In Buddhism, "Noble family" signifies a lineage characterized by high social status, virtuous qualities, and spiritual potential, often associated with bodhisattvas and enlightened beings, indicating a pathway toward enlightenment and moral integrity.
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) A term indicating individuals of high moral quality or ideals, specifically referencing the qualities of A-ni-lou-t’o, Nan-t’i-kia, and Tch’e-mi-lo.[1] (2) Sanjaya reflects on his background as a member of a noble family (Kaundinya) with great wealth, which he considers while thinking about his virtues and responsibilities toward his disciples.[2] (3) A lineage or family of esteemed status that a bodhisattva belongs to, as opposed to commoner status.[3] (4) The social background of the man prior to becoming a monk, highlighting his status.[4] (5) A term of respect used by the Buddha Ratnakara addressing Samantarashmi, denoting a lineage of spiritual descent or character.[5]
From: Mahavastu (great story)
(1) Refers to the lineage from which Buddhas arise, often being from families of nobility or high social status, emphasizing their revered qualities.[6] (2) A type of family in which a Bodhisattva may be born, characterized by high social standing.[7] (3) The type of family in which a Bodhisattva, like Dipamkara, is born, characterized by virtues and esteemed qualities.[8] (4) A lineage associated with virtue and spiritual attainment, significant within the context of deserving rebirth and influence.[9] (5) Yashoda’s lineage as the guild-president's son, which implied privilege but also brought expectations of societal duties.[10]
From: Lotus Sutra
(1) Refers to individuals born into virtuous conditions who have the potential to achieve spiritual accomplishments through their practices.[11] (2) Refers to the virtuous lineage from which individuals such as bodhisattvas and other exalted beings arise.[12] (3) Refers to beings with virtuous qualities and character, particularly in relation to the teachings of the Buddha.[13] (4) A term used to address the assembly, reflecting their virtuous qualities and aspirations towards enlightenment.[14]
From: Buddhacarita
(1) Refers to the background of the Crown Prince, emphasizing the pride associated with his lineage and the tragedy of his loss.[15]
From: Vinaya Pitaka (1): Bhikkhu-vibhanga (the analysis of Monks’ rules)
(1) One of the four kinds of families from which invitations to eat could originate.[16] (2) One of the four types of families defined in the narrative, indicating social standing.[17] (3) One of the four classifications of families recognized within the context of the monks' social interactions.[18]
From: Maha Buddhavamsa—The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) A family of high social status from which Upavana was reborn, ultimately leading him to renounce worldly life.[19]
From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) Refers to families of high social standing, in contrast to the slave-girl’s child which was not deemed worthy of such a name.[20]
From: Visuddhimagga (the pah of purification)
(1) A lineage that is regarded highly in terms of moral or spiritual qualities, from which one can be reborn.[21]
From: Abhidhamma in Daily Life
(1) A family with high social status, privilege, or moral superiority that may influence the character and life circumstances of its members.[22]
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) A family of high repute, such as the Khattiya clan, where noble beings like the Buddha are born.[23]
From: The Great Chariot
(1) A respectful address to the disciple, highlighting their potential and the importance of their journey in spiritual practice.[24] (2) A term referring to individuals with a lineage or qualities that are spiritually significant and admirable.[25] (3) Noble family refers to those who possess high moral and spiritual qualities, aligning themselves with the pursuit of enlightenment and the practice of bodhicitta.[26] (4) A reference to those who have the capacity to understand and appreciate spiritual teachings, as addressed in the Gandavyuha Sutra.[27] (5) A term referring to individuals of spiritual significance who embody positive qualities.[28]
Hindu concept of 'Noble family'
In Hinduism, the Noble family denotes a lineage of high status and moral integrity, influencing individual characters’ choices and social standing, especially in marital considerations, emphasizing virtues such as honor, education, and ethical conduct.
From: Skanda Purana
(1) Refers to a family of distinguished lineage, with values tied to virtue and piety, highlighting the cultural virtues of motherhood.[29] (2) Referring to the familial lineage of the Candala woman, highlighting the contrast between her past and present life.[30] (3) A reference to Yudhishthira, indicating his high social status and moral integrity.[31] (4) The social and ethical background of individuals, particularly Brahmanas, characterized by good conduct and integrity.[32] (5) A reference to the higher social standing of certain women whom Damana abandoned, showcasing his disregard for honor.[33]
From: Padma Purana
(1) A lineage or background known for its virtue and adherence to societal and spiritual standards.[34] (2) A family characterized by high moral values and esteemed social status.[35] (3) A family that is esteemed and possesses high moral or social qualities.[36] (4) A lineage associated with virtuous practices; however, a brahmana from such a family who wears the mark of sacred ash should be avoided.[37] (5) A lineage or heritage associated with honor, virtue, and moral integrity, into which a person can be reborn as a reward for their piety.[38]
From: Gautami Mahatmya
(1) The context surrounding Sita, the wife of Rama, who is noted for her virtuous upbringing and noble background.[39] (2) Paithinasi was the ornament of a noble family, indicating her high status.[40] (3) The ideal background for a bridegroom, emphasizing the importance of lineage in marriage considerations.[41] (4) Those born of noble families strictly adhere to promises made, showcasing their integrity and moral values.[42]
From: Shiva Purana
(1) The attributes attributed to Shiva, suggesting he is both having a good lineage and being free from familial ties.[43] (2) A family of high reputation, indicated by good conduct, scholarship, and adherence to traditional values.[44] (3) An allusion to the societal expectations and norms regarding the beauty and behaviors of women.[45]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) Refers to a social status or lineage characterized by respectability and distinguished ancestry.[46] (2) A lineage belonging to the aristocracy, characterized by honor and dignity.[47]
From: Bhagavata Purana
(1) Refers to the esteemed lineage from which Sukanya comes, highlighting the contrast to her actions.[48]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) A family of high status and good character, which governs the actions and decisions of characters like Tulasi regarding whom to engage with.[49]
From: Agni Purana
(1) A lineage of high social rank, often associated with honor and ethics.[50]
From: Markandeya Purana
(1) Refers to the distinguished heritage of the brahman, highlighting a contrast with Pushadhra's actions and the resultant curse.[51]
From: Matsya Purana (critical study)
(1) A lineage characterized by honorable qualities, often a requirement for several high-ranking positions listed in the Matsyapurana.[52]
From: Vishnu Purana (Taylor)
(1) A lineage or background that is highly respected, which the king will be born into after tasting the delights of heaven.[53]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) A lineage that is respected, contributing to the respectability and ability of a person.[54] (2) The lineage from which the initiator should come, emphasizing the significance of background in the context of education.[55] (3) A lineage or ancestry considered respectable and honorable, often associated with refined social status and values.[56] (4) A family background that indicates respectability and heritage, important for selecting a domestic priest.[57] (5) The social background of the ambassador, stressing the importance of being from a prestigious lineage as part of ideal ambassadorial qualities.[58]
From: Gautama Dharmasutra
(1) A desirable lineage for the king's priest, indicating high social status and respect.[59]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) A family with a distinguished social status or lineage.[60]
From: Harsha-charita
(1) An esteemed lineage characterized by virtue, honor, and a legacy of excellence, often sought after in marriage alliances.[61]
From: Bhagavatpadabhyudaya by Lakshmana Suri (study)
(1) A family of high social standing and reputation, sought for matrimonial alliances.[62]
From: Dasarupaka (critical study)
(1) An esteemed lineage from which Puppa, the wife of Yashovarman, hailed.[63]
From: Padarthadharmasamgraha and Nyayakandali
(1) A lineage or ancestry characterized by moral integrity and spiritual wisdom.[64]
From: Kamashastra Discourse (Life in Ancient India)
(1) A requirement suggesting that a groom should seek a bride from a family of good standing or noble lineage.[65]
Jain concept of 'Noble family'
In Jainism, a Noble family signifies a lineage with a distinguished background, displaying virtuous qualities regardless of material circumstances, embodying high-status karma, and underscoring esteemed heritage in relationships, like those of Rajimati and Vegavati.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) A reference made by Candranakha when requesting Rama to marry her, emphasizing her lineage.[66] (2) A term indicating the esteemed lineage of the maiden Vegavati, whom Simharatha married.[67]
From: Tattvartha Sutra (with commentary)
(1) A family that embodies the tradition of noble conduct, resulting from high-status karma.[68]
From: Naladiyar
(1) A family that maintains good qualities irrespective of their material condition, such as torn clothes and a wasted body.[69]
From: Uttaradhyayana Sutra
(1) A lineage with a distinguished heritage or royal background, connected to Rajimati's identity.[70]
The concept of Noble family in local and regional sources
The Noble family relates to social standing and lineage, illustrating how aristocratic backgrounds influence behavior and identity across various contexts, from fish behavior to characters in literature, reflecting societal norms and personal choices.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) The aristocratic background of certain characters within the story, specifically the Ettuvittil Pillamar.[71] (2) A reference to Beatrice's background, representing societal class and the substantial impact of lineage on personal identity in Dante's time.[72] (3) Rao Sahib's background, linking him to a lineage of aristocrats and feudatory noblemen, which he did not let influence his character.[73]
From: Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints
(1) Refers to the social status and respectable lineage of the merchant's wife.[74]
From: Lord Jhulelal: An Analytical Study
(1) Refers to the lineage of Zarathustra's parents, who lived a simple life.[75]
From: Buddhist records of the Western world (Xuanzang)
(1) Refers to the high social standing of the fish in its former life, which influenced its past behavior.[76]