Significance of Noble One
Synonyms: Nobleman, Lord, Gentleman, Blue blood
In Dutch: Edele; In Finnish: Jalo Yksi; In Spanish: Noble Uno
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 One'
The term "Noble One" in Buddhism encompasses enlightened beings, such as Buddhas and arahats, individuals of high moral integrity, and those achieving significant spiritual insight, all embodying the path to liberation from suffering.
From: Maha Buddhavamsa—The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) Individuals who have reached enlightenment and do not commit wrongdoings.[1] (2) Individuals recognized within certain traditions as being virtuous or spiritually advanced, such as Buddhas and Bodhisattas.[2] (3) Individuals who possess special insights and abilities, particularly concerning the contemplation of objects as desired.[3] (4) A term used to refer to the enlightened beings who follow the teachings of the Buddha.[4] (5) Individuals established in the Path, including arahats and others who adhere to the teachings of the Buddha, recognized through Sarana-gamana.[5]
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) Individuals characterized by mindfulness, concentration, and a deep commitment to overcoming defilements, as depicted in Dhammapada verse 181.[6] (2) A term referring to individuals who have achieved a high level of spiritual development and can transcend worldly suffering.[7] (3) Refers to the arahants who conduct their lives righteously and are revered for their virtuous teachings.[8] (4) Individuals who have attained a high moral and ethical standard, and have overcome their flaws and negative traits.[9] (5) Individuals who embody characteristics of virtue, self-control, and detachment from worldly desires.[10]
From: Visuddhimagga (the pah of purification)
(1) Individuals who have attained a higher level of understanding and can apprehend Nibbana through specialized knowledge.[11] (2) Noble Ones are individuals who have attained significant spiritual insight and accomplishment, particularly in producing the eight attainments and developing concentration towards ultimate goals like Nibbana.[12] (3) Individuals who have reached higher paths in asceticism and are capable of attaining noble fruit.[13] (4) Individuals who have achieved a significant level of spiritual development, including Buddhas and their enlightened disciples.[14] (5) Individuals who have attained an elevated understanding and practice of virtue, admired and emulated in spiritual traditions.[15]
From: A Discourse on Paticcasamuppada
(1) Individuals who have attained high states of realization through practicing the Buddha's teachings.[16] (2) An Arahat, a person who has reached the highest state of being free from defilements and is deserving of honor.[17]
From: Introducing Buddhist Abhidhamma
(1) Refer to individuals who are enlightened, starting with the Sotapanna and leading to higher levels such as Arahat.[18] (2) Individuals who have made significant progress on the path to Enlightenment, including stream-enterers and arahats.[19]
From: Milindapanha (questions of King Milinda)
(1) A representation of a person who possesses moral strength and virtue that should be cultivated.[20] (2) A title for those who lead a life of righteousness following the teachings of the Buddha, often in reference to the monastic community.[21]
From: Vinaya (2): The Mahavagga
(1) Refers to the members of the Samgha who are considered virtuous and uphold the teachings of the Buddha.[22]
From: Catusacca Dipani
(1) Referred to as ariyas, these individuals belong to the supramundane sphere after attaining certain levels of spiritual development.[23]
From: Abhidhamma in Daily Life (by Ashin Janakabhivamsa)
(1) Noble Ones are individuals who follow the teachings of the Buddha and renounce sensual pleasures, aiming for higher spiritual goals.[24]
From: Vinaya Pitaka (1): Bhikkhu-vibhanga (the analysis of Monks’ rules)
(1) A reference to individuals who have attained a high level of spiritual realization, recognized in the context of the teachings.[25]
From: The Great Chariot
(1) Enlightened beings or saints who embody the true wealth of spiritual teachings and compassion.[26] (2) Highly realized beings whose bodhicitta is deeply rooted in their understanding and practice.[27] (3) A respectful term used to address Maitreya, signifying his elevated status and compassion.[28] (4) Individuals who have progressed beyond defilements through their practice, embodying wisdom and insight in both meditation and post-meditation.[29] (5) Individuals who have achieved a high level of spiritual understanding or enlightenment.[30]
From: Bodhinyana
(1) A classification of advanced practitioners, including stream enterers, once returners, and non-returners, who have deep insight into the Dhamma.[31]
From: Apadana commentary (Atthakatha)
(1) Individuals who have evolved through good deeds and mindfulness, leading to a higher state of being.[32]
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) Refers to enlightened beings or the morally upright in Buddhism who reject harm caused by improper actions, such as Devadatta's consumption of food obtained through wrong means.[33]
From: Bodhisattvacharyavatara
(1) An ambiguous title referring to either Jayadeva or Manjushri, illustrating the interconnectedness of their roles in Shantideva's education.[34]
From: Lotus Sutra
(1) The enlightened beings recognized for understanding and practicing the Dharma.[35]
Hindu concept of 'Noble One'
In Hinduism, "Noble One" signifies respect for esteemed individuals, divine beings, and virtuous characters, emphasizing hospitality, moral integrity, and righteousness. It applies to figures like Vishnu, Rama, Arjuna, and Sita, reflecting their high moral status.
From: Padma Purana
(1) A person of high moral character who upholds virtues, leading with righteousness and merit.[36] (2) Refers to divine beings such as gods, nagas, gandharvas, and kinnaras who reside at the holy place Kapalakunda.[37] (3) An honorific term used to address someone of high moral standing or virtue in the discourse.[38] (4) Refers to the parents of Sukarman, who are portrayed as virtuous and wise due to their knowledge of sacred precepts.[39] (5) A term of respect referring to Dharmaraja or the virtuous individual in the context.[40]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki
(1) A respectful reference to Sita, acknowledging her worth and dignity.[41] (2) A term of respect used by Shatrughna when addressing Bharata.[42] (3) An honorific used by Lakshmana when addressing his brother Rama.[43] (4) A term of respect referring to Ikshvaku, highlighting his esteemed character.[44]
From: Skanda Purana
(1) Individuals of good disposition who conduct themselves with virtue.[45] (2) A term of endearment used for Arjuna, recognizing his high moral character and virtuous traits.[46]
From: Bhagavata Purana
(1) Individuals recognized for their virtuous qualities and adherence to righteousness.[47]
From: Anugita (English translation)
(1) A title attributed to Rama, suggesting his inherent virtue and qualities that are expected to govern his actions amidst challenges.[48]
From: Lalitopakhyana (Lalita Mahatmya)
(1) Referring to the proud Danavas, known for their physical might and victories.[49]
From: Bhagavad-gita Mahatmya
(1) Refers to individuals who exhibit virtue, wisdom, and spiritual integrity.[50]
From: Harivamsha Purana
(1) A term Rama uses to address Yamuna, reflecting his respect towards her despite their tumultuous interaction.[51]
From: Brahmanda Purana
(1) A term used to denote someone of high moral character and virtue.[52]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) A term of endearment or respect used by the speaker to address the person she is pleading with, highlighting their perceived noble qualities.[53] (2) A respectful address used to refer to an esteemed individual, indicating their character or status.[54]
From: Bharadvaja-srauta-sutra
(1) A term of respect for the deities being addressed in the prayers, emphasizing their esteemed status.[55]
From: Natyashastra (English)
(1) A term used to address Brahmins, recognizing their esteemed position in society.[56]
From: Jarasandhavadha Mahakavyam
(1) Individuals distinguished by virtuous behavior, often referenced in the context of seeking refuge or help.[57]
Jain concept of 'Noble One'
In Jainism, the term "Noble One" signifies individuals possessing wisdom and moral integrity, guiding others towards righteousness while embodying higher virtues and imparting the law impartially and fairly. They may face misrepresentation despite their ethical stance.
From: Acaranga-sutra
(1) Individuals who have declared the law without bias or partiality.[58] (2) Individuals who have attained wisdom or high moral standards and provide guidance on the path of righteousness.[59] (3) Individuals regarded for their wisdom and moral integrity, whose insights guide others toward righteousness.[60] (4) Individuals viewed as virtuous and morally upright who preach the law fairly and justly.[61]
From: Yogadrstisamuccaya of Haribhadra Suri (Study)
(1) Individuals who embody higher virtues and are often subject to being misrepresented by fallacious arguments.[62]
The concept of Noble One in local and regional sources
The keyphrase "Noble Ones" denotes a title associated with the king, highlighting his integrity and honorable characteristics, as suggested by regional sources. This signifies the king's esteemed position and virtuous reputation in society.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) A title that likely refers to the king, indicating his integrity and honorable qualities.[63]