Significance of Protection
Protection is a multifaceted concept across various Indian traditions. In Jainism, it symbolizes the plea for spiritual safety amidst threats. In Vaishnavism, it encompasses the safeguarding of individuals from danger, exemplified by divine interventions for figures like Vasudeva and Devaki. The Purana emphasizes defending against harm and seeking refuge in deities, particularly Vishnu. Dharmashastra highlights rituals for protecting familial well-being, while historical contexts illustrate security as a fundamental need of life. Overall, Protection signifies the fundamental human desire for safety and reassurance across philosophical and religious frameworks.
Synonyms: Safeguarding, Defense, Security, Conservation, Immunity, Safety, Guardianship, Shelter
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Protection'
Protection in Hinduism encompasses safeguarding individuals, especially through divine intervention and rituals. It reflects a broader theme of seeking safety from harm, as highlighted in various interactions with deities, notably through Krishna and Vishnu.
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) The action of keeping safe or the state of being safe; the text asserts that without bathing at Pindaraka-tirtha, one lacks protection.[1] (2) The action of keeping someone safe from harm or danger.[2] (3) The act of safeguarding Ugrasena, as stated in the verse.[3] (4) The act of safeguarding Vasudeva and Devaki from Kamsa's malevolent intentions as performed by the soldiers.[4] (5) Derived from 'raksha', this term indicates the act of safeguarding or defending something or someone.[5]
From: Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu
(1) The act of safeguarding or providing refuge, suggesting the support given to righteousness or dharma.[6] (2) The act of safeguarding or shielding someone from harm or fear.[7]
From: Tiruvaymoli (Thiruvaimozhi): English translation
(1) The shelter and safety that the Lord provides, which the devotees earnestly seek.[8]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) Refers to the request for safeguarding and support from Krishna, highlighting the desperation of the characters involved.[9] (2) What Dhritarashtra and Gandhari solicit from the citizens, indicating their vulnerable state.[10] (3) The act of defending others from harm, especially during conflict and battle.[11] (4) Seeking safety or refuge, notably demonstrated by the pigeon seeking shelter from the hawk.[12]
From: Padma Purana
(1) Refers to the safeguarding role attributed to deities, particularly Vishnu, who is portrayed as a shelter for those in need.[13]
From: Garuda Purana
(1) The safeguarding provided by divine blessings, symbolized through the adoration of sacred objects like the discus.[14]
From: Brahma Purana
(1) The safety and refuge sought by Markandeya from Lord Krishna as a response to his distress.[15]
From: Skanda Purana
(1) The act of safeguarding devotees, a central theme in the interactions between the goddess and her followers.[16]
From: Paraskara-grihya-sutra
(1) A central theme in the rituals where the husband seeks safeguarding for his wife and their wellbeing.[17]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) The state of being safeguarded from harm or danger, interpreted in different contexts.[18]
From: Shishupala-vadha (Study)
(1) The act of seeking safety from a more powerful adversary, which is a strategic choice in times of weakness or threat.[19]
Jain concept of 'Protection'
In Jainism, Protection symbolizes a quest for ethical guidance and spiritual safety, as exemplified by Bibhishana's loyalty to Rama, highlighting the importance of rightful conduct amidst existential or doctrinal challenges.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) What Bibhishana seeks from Rama after leaving his unethical brother, symbolizing the themes of loyalty and rightful conduct.[20] (2) The desperate plea for spiritual safety and reassurance in the face of existential or doctrinal threats.[21]
The concept of Protection in local and regional sources
Protection symbolizes the essential security and support sought by the vulnerable life of the world, highlighting the deep interdependence among beings and the need for safeguarding against threats and challenges.
From: Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints
(1) Refers to the security and support that the Life of the world is seeking, symbolizing vulnerability and dependence.[22]