Significance of Radiant

The term "Radiant" in the context of Purana signifies an attribute of the deity that embodies brilliance and divine light. This concept highlights the notion that the essence of the deity is characterized by a powerful luminosity, portraying a sense of holiness and splendor. As a descriptor, "Radiant" reflects the divine qualities that emanate from the deity's very being, emphasizing the grandeur and purity associated with their existence.1

Synonyms: Luminous, Glowing, Bright, Resplendent, Brilliant, Effulgent

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Buddhist concept of 'Radiant'

Buddhism Books

In Buddhism, "Radiant" (gsal-bar-gyur-to) signifies the luminous manifestation of spiritual truths, representing the quality of emitting light or brightness, which embodies enlightenment and clarity in one's spiritual journey.

Significance of Radiant in Tibetan Buddhism (Vajrayana or tantric Buddhism):

Tibetan Buddhism Books

From: Guhyagarbha Tantra (with Commentary)

(1) Radiant (gsal-bar-gyur-to) refers to the quality of emitting light or brightness, used here to describe the luminous manifestation of spiritual truths.^[1]

Tibetan Buddhism includes schools such as Nyingma, Kadampa, Kagyu and Gelug. Their primary canon of literature is divided in two broad categories: The Kangyur, which consists of Buddha’s words, and the Tengyur, which includes commentaries from various sources. Esotericism and tantra techniques (vajrayana) are collected indepently.

Hindu concept of 'Radiant'

Hinduism Books

In Hinduism, "Radiant" signifies a divine attribute characterized by brilliance and light emanating from the deity, emphasizing a manifestation of spiritual illumination and the sacred essence of the divine.

Significance of Radiant in Purana and Itihasa (epic history):

Purana Books

From: Bhagavadgita

(1) An attribute of the deity that signifies brilliance and divine light radiating from its being.^[2]

The Purana refers to Sanskrit literature preserving ancient India’s vast cultural history, including historical legends, religious ceremonies, various arts and sciences. The eighteen mahapuranas total over 400,000 shlokas (metrical couplets) and date to at least several centuries BCE.

Significance of Radiant in Dharmashastra (religious law):

Dharmashastra Books

From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi

(1) Describing someone who shines with their own effulgence, indicating a high state of being and presence.^[3]

Dharmashastra contains the instructions (shastra) regarding religious conduct of livelihood (dharma), ceremonies, jurisprudence (study of law) and more. It is categorized as smriti, an important and authoritative selection of books dealing with the Hindu lifestyle.

Last Updated: 30 October, 2024