Significance of Noble son
The term "Noble son" carries deep significance across various traditions, including Jainism, Tibetan Buddhism, Vaishnavism, and more. It references individuals of high virtue, honorable lineage, and moral integrity. In Jainism, it can denote Sugriva's son as virtuous, while Tibetan Buddhism highlights Candraprabhakumara's esteemed lineage. In Vaishnavism, it refers to Krishna's followers and royal descendants. Additionally, the term is connected to characters like Rama in Purana and the Buddha in Theravada, emphasizing their revered statuses and moral qualities.
Synonyms: Royal descendant
In Dutch: Edele zoon; In Finnish: Jalo poika; In Spanish: Hijo noble; In German: Edler Sohn; In French: Noble fils; In Finnish: Aatelispoika; In Swedish: Ädel son; In Malay: Anak yang mulia; In Portugese: Filho nobre; In Italian: Nobile figlio; In Polish: Szlachetny syn
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 son'
In Buddhism, "Noble son" signifies a person of high virtue, often referring to esteemed lineages or promising offspring of nobles, highlighting respect, moral standing, and the spiritual connection between the Buddha and his followers.
From: Mahavastu (great story)
(1) "Noble sons" is the flattering term the Sirens used to address the merchants, enticing them with promises of comfort and pleasure to keep them on the island.[1] (2) O King, without a doubt they are come to view your noble son, according to the text.[2]
From: Maha Buddhavamsa—The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) A reference to the Buddha as a person of high virtue and moral standing.[3] (2) Refers to the Bodhisatta, the son of King Suddhodana, who is destined to become the Buddha.[4]
From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) The offspring of a king or noble, often expected to uphold the family's legacy and virtues.[5] (2) A reference to the children of royal lineage, denoting the themes of duty and legacy embedded in the characters' lives.[6]
From: Mahavamsa
(1) The child born to the queen, who was initially longed for and later named after the auspicious signs he possessed.[7]
From: Blue Annals (deb-ther sngon-po)
(1) Refers to the esteemed lineage from which Candraprabhakumara is born, denoting his rich family background.[8] (2) Refers to kulaputra, the fruit of a special rite performed by royal parents to ensure the birth of a child of high virtue and status.[9]
Hindu concept of 'Noble son'
In Hinduism, "Noble son" signifies virtuous lineage and high moral integrity, exemplified by figures like Prithu and Rama. These sons are respected for their character, contributions, and familial roles, reflecting esteem within society.
From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Griffith)
(1) Noble son refers to Rama, who is virtuous and has always acted in the king's best interest, unlike the king's unjust ways.[10] (2) Noble sons were Dhruvasandhi and Prasenajit, sons of Susandhi, and Bharat was Dhruvasandhi’s son, who won glorious fame as a monarch.[11] (3) This is how Sumitra's son was addressed.[12] (4) Offspring of Jaya, boundless in size, who will subdue demons, according to the text.[13] (5) This refers to Raghu’s noble son who the Sea would fain to befriend and lend succour, as moved by zeal for Rama’s sake.[14]
From: Anugita (English translation)
(1) A person of high virtue and moral integrity, referred to in relation to Rama, who is encouraged to pursue penance for spiritual growth.[15]
From: Markandeya Purana
(1) Desirable progeny gained by worshipping during the asterism Ashlesha.[16]
From: Vishnu Purana
(1) The ten virtuous offspring of Manu Cakshusha, descended from the original king.[17]
From: Gautami Mahatmya
(1) The son of faithful parents, whose actions brought about grief and affliction to his family when he was killed by king Dasharatha.[18]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) Describes the descendants of Anarta, indicating they possess high qualities or virtues.[19] (2) Refers to Mucukunda as being of royal lineage, specifically the son of King Mandhata.[20]
From: Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu
(1) Krishna's disciples or followers, who receive His teachings and guidance.[21]
From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)
(1) The son promised to Candraketu by Shiva, who will embody the power to defeat Vidyuddhvaja.[22]
From: Sankhayana-grihya-sutra
(1) Children of high quality or esteemed lineage, referenced in the context of a mother's protective role.[23]
Jain concept of 'Noble son'
In Jainism, "Noble son" signifies Sugriva's son, representing righteousness and virtue, particularly highlighted through his experience of receiving poison, which underscores his worthiness and moral stature within the faith.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) Refers to Sugriva's son, who is the recipient of poison, indicating his virtue and worthiness.[24]
The concept of Noble son in local and regional sources
"Noble son" signifies a figure embodying virtues and adhering to family and societal laws. This concept is exemplified by characters such as Bharata in the Ramayana, reflecting ideals of integrity and responsibility.
From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda
(1) The author expresses his feelings towards Mrs. Woods's son, indicating a positive sentiment toward the son of the addressee.[25] (2) A term of endearment used by the writer to address the recipient of the letter, showing fondness and affection.[26]
From: Triveni Journal
(1) Refers to a son who embodies virtues and upholds familial and societal laws, as illustrated by characters like Bharata in the Ramayana.[27]
Classical concept of 'Noble son'
From: The Iliad of Homer (English translation)
(1) This is used to describe Rhigmus, highlighting lineage and status.[28] (2) The noble son of Peleus, Achilles, is indirectly present through the conflict surrounding Patroclus' death and the use of his armor, foreshadowing his inevitable return to battle and his pursuit of vengeance, thus creating anticipation.[29] (3) Achilles addresses Patroclus as "Noble son of Menoetius", emphasizing Patroclus' lineage and the respect Achilles has for him, while also highlighting Patroclus' role as a trusted companion.[30] (4) This is a reference to an individual whose horses are promised as a reward for spying on the enemy ships, according to a deceptive offer.[31] (5) A person who with all sincerity and goodwill addressed them thus, beginning and ending their speech with another.[32]
From: The Odyssey of Homer (English translation)
(1) Ulysses, noble son of Laertes, is addressed by the swineherd, showing respect and loyalty to the hero.[33] (2) A title used by Teiresias to address Ulysses, acknowledging his lineage and status as the son of Laertes.[34] (3) Ulysses is referred to as the noble son of Laertes, which is how Calypso addresses him when discussing his desire to return to his homeland, Ithica.[35]