Significance of Rakshasi
Rakshasi in various cultural contexts refers to a female demon associated with malevolence and deception. In Jainism, she symbolizes the victory of goodness over evil through her interactions with Bhaimi. South Asian tales portray her as a cunning figure who preys on the innocent, while Tibetan Buddhism connects her to violent imagery, such as a goddess drinking blood. In Indian mythology, Rakshasi is often depicted with treacherous characteristics and magical powers, illustrating the fears and dangers posed by female demons in these narratives.
Synonyms: Demoness, Witch, Sorceress, Fiend, Female demon, She-demon, Ogress
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Rakshasi'
In Buddhism, Rakshasi represents various interpretations, including a fierce goddess, demonic forces, and protective figures, highlighting themes of temptation, protection, and the duality of energy associated with these mythical beings.
From: Karandavyuha Sutra
(1) Supernatural beings who are portrayed as hostile, capturing the merchants on Simhala Island.[1] (2) Female beings who desire the great Brahmin and seek companionship and protection.[2]
From: Lotus Sutra
(1) A group of protective figures that express the desire to safeguard the reciters and preservers of the Lotus Sutra.[3]
From: Mahavastu (great story)
(1) Mythical creatures often representing demonic forces or harmful temptations that devour the unwary.[4]
From: Guhyagarbha Tantra (with Commentary)
(1) A dark-red goddess drinking from a skull full of blood, symbolizing fierce energy.[5] (2) Wife of Rakshasa, identified with the ten-headed demon Dashagriva from Lanka.[6]
Hindu concept of 'Rakshasi'
In Hinduism, Rakshasi represents a female demon symbolizing evil, danger, and deception. She exhibits malevolent traits, complicating heroes' journeys and invoking societal fears, as seen in various mythological narratives.
From: Skanda Purana
(1) A demoness of dreadful appearance encountered by Dharmadatta during his journey to the temple.[7]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) A female demon in Indian mythology, showcasing the diverse interpretations of the lady's identity.[8]
From: Shiva Purana
(1) A female demon related to the Rakshasas, often depicted as having violent and wicked characteristics.[9]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki
(1) A term used to describe a demon or female demon, exemplified by Shurpanakha, who possesses magical powers and malign intent.[10]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) A supernatural being believed to harm children, which the guards suspected Rohitashva's mother to be, showcasing societal fears and mistrust.[11]
From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)
(1) A demoness who steals King Kanakavarsha's son shortly after his birth.[12] (2) A female demon or spirit in Hindu mythology known for deception and danger, often associated with seductive traits.[13] (3) Female demons that attempted to seize Padmavati but were stopped by Muktaphalaketu.[14] (4) A female demon whose thoughts and actions further complicate Kirtisena's journey, demonstrating the presence of evil and danger.[15] (5) A female demon in Hindu mythology, embodied as the character that terrifies protagonists and represents the threat of being devoured.[16]
From: Brihat Samhita
(1) A woman characterized negatively with ugly features and poor manners, despised by men of taste.[17]
From: Hanuman Nataka (critical study)
(1) A term referring to a female demon who came to see Rama and Lakshmana as they slept, representing a danger within the narrative.[18]
From: Sahitya-kaumudi by Baladeva Vidyabhushana
(1) A metaphorical figure, characterized as a woman who goes out at night, symbolizing emotional turmoil.[19]
Jain concept of 'Rakshasi'
In Jainism, Rakshasi symbolizes chaos from sacrifices, represents treacherous wealth, reflects the evil of Surpaka's daughters against Krishna, and signifies the triumph of virtue over wickedness through the demoness yielding to Bhaimi’s wisdom.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) A term used by Priyadarshana reflecting her imagined transformation due to the chaos surrounding the sacrifices.[20] (2) Refers to the evil nature of the two daughters of Surpaka who attempted to harm Krishna.[21] (3) A demoness who attempted to threaten Bhaimi, but ultimately yielded to her virtuous words, symbolizing the victory of goodness over malevolence.[22] (4) A mythical female demon, representing the treacherous nature of wealth if not handled properly.[23]
The concept of Rakshasi in local and regional sources
Rakshasi refers to a supernatural female demon associated with capturing and deceiving men and children, often linked with the malicious acts of her male counterpart, the Rakshasa, while playing pivotal roles in various narratives.
From: Village Folk-tales of Ceylon (Sri Lanka), vol. 1-3
(1) The female counterpart of the Rakshasa, who, along with her partner, seeks to eat the lad and his father.[24] (2) The female counterpart of the Rakshasa who interacts with the Princesses.[25] (3) The female counterpart of the Rakshasa, who plays a crucial role in the plot by sheltering her brothers while the danger approaches.[26] (4) The female counterpart of the Rakshasa who is involved in the plot; the youngest youth convinces her to accompany him.[27] (5) A malevolent creature in the tales that tries to capture and eat children, attempting to deceive them into her grasp.[28]
From: Folklore of the Santal Parganas
(1) A supernatural being who captures the boy under the guise of an old woman.[29]