Significance of O kings
The keyphrase "O king" signifies a respectful address directed towards rulers, indicating their authority and status. In various texts, this phrase is utilized by speakers such as Shri Narada, Vyasa, and Sanjaya to express reverence and acknowledgment of royal positions. It plays a crucial role in enhancing the formal tone of dialogues, showcasing the importance of the king in the narrative context, whether in Vaishnavism, Purana, Dharmashastra, or Indian historical texts.
Synonyms: O monarch, O lord, Monarch, Ruler, Sovereign, Emperor
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'O kings'
In Hinduism, "O king" is a respectful address aimed at rulers, highlighting authority and reverence. This term signifies the importance of the dialogue, contextualizes narrative interactions, and acknowledges the ruler’s elevated status.
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) A form of address directed towards a ruler, utilized in the context of the text.[1] (2) A phrase used to address a royal figure or ruler.[2] (3) A term of address directed towards the king, who is acknowledged in the context of the narrative.[3] (4) A vocative address used to show reverence or respect towards a king or ruler.[4] (5) An exclamation directed towards the king of Mithila, implying reverence or respect in speech.[5]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) A reference to a ruler or monarch, likely addressing them directly in a plea or request.[6] (2) A respectful address to a ruler or monarch, indicating authority and significance.[7] (3) A respectful address used by Aurva when speaking to Sagara Maharaja, emphasizing the importance of the message being conveyed.[8] (4) A respectful address used within the context of teachings delivered, specifically referring to King Bhagiratha.[9]
From: Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu
(1) A respectful address used in the text to invoke authority and importance in the message being conveyed.[10] (2) A respectful address used in the text, indicating a listener of high status receiving the teaching.[11] (3) A phrase used in the text to address a ruler, signifying respect and authority while conveying the message about devotion.[12]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) A respectful address used by Shri Jaimini directed towards the audience, indicating the importance of the message.[13]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) An address to a king, emphasizing respect and acknowledgment of the king's authority.[14] (2) A respectful address toward the person being spoken to, acknowledging their status as a king.[15] (3) An address used by Sanjaya when speaking to Yudhishthira, showing respect.[16] (4) A respectful address to the king, emphasizing the monarch's status and authority in the context of the events detailed.[17] (5) A respectful address used in conversations to refer to a monarch, emphasizing the dignity of the speaker's audience.[18]
From: Skanda Purana
(1) Another respectful address to the king, emphasizing significance and authority in the context of the discourse.[19] (2) A term of respect and address directed towards a king, emphasizing the importance of the message being conveyed.[20]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) A term of address used by Vyasa to refer to the king, emphasizing respect and authority.[21] (2) A respectful address used by Vyasa when speaking, indicating the position and authority of the listener.[22]
From: Padma Purana
(1) An address or invocation to a ruler present in the narrative, possibly marking the importance of the following events.[23]
From: Harivamsha Purana
(1) A direct address to the assembly of kings, indicating respect and authority.[24]
From: Sankhayana-grihya-sutra
(1) A phrase that addresses a deity or spiritual figure, indicating reverence and respect.[25]
The concept of O kings in local and regional sources
O king is a respectful term of address used to acknowledge and honor the authority of a king, emphasizing the recognition of his position and the esteem held for his rule.
From: Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints
(1) A term of address directed towards the king, showing respect and recognition of his authority.[26]