Significance of Sacred narrative
Sacred narrative, as outlined in the Purana, encompasses a variety of revered stories that convey spiritual truths, moral teachings, and devotion to divine figures. These narratives include the accounts of deities such as Narayana and Shiva, illustrating virtues and paths to salvation. They serve to purify listeners and impart wisdom, often linked with significant events in Hindu tradition. The storytelling tradition emphasizes the spiritual and moral lessons inherent in these tales, promoting righteous practices and understanding of the divine.
Synonyms: Sacred story, Holy tale, Divine narrative, Myth, Legend, Fable, Parable, Folklore, Tale
In Dutch: Heilig verhaal; In Finnish: Pyhä kertomus
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Sacred narrative'
In Hinduism, Sacred narrative encompasses religious tales from Puranas, recounting divine exploits and moral lessons. These stories are spiritually beneficial, purifying souls, inspiring devotion, and imparting wisdom essential for achieving connection with the divine.
From: Shiva Purana
(1) The story that, when heard, is said to erase sins.[1] (2) The storytelling of the twelve jyotirlingas that conveys their significance and promotes devotion.[2] (3) The valuable story related to the incarnation of Shiva and the fulfillment of Parvati's desire.[3] (4) The recounting of events that exemplify devotion, role of divine beings, and the significance of spiritual practices.[4] (5) A holy story that conveys moral lessons and spiritual truths.[5]
From: Skanda Purana
(1) Refers to the story of depositing the weapons, which provides wisdom and virtue to those who listen attentively.[6] (2) Stories that convey moral or spiritual lessons, often inspiring individuals to engage in righteous practices.[7] (3) The story that is said to confer immense spiritual benefits and purify one's soul.[8] (4) Refers to the story of Divodasa that provides lessons on virtue, shedding light on sin and salvation.[9] (5) A revered story that conveys spiritual truths, promoting fame, merit, and devotion to the divine.[10]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) The story recounted by Narada about the glory and principal nature of Narayana.[11] (2) An important story or account that holds religious significance, particularly the tale of Vritra’s defeat by Indra.[12] (3) Refers to the religious and moral tales that are part of the Puranas, which Ugrasrava Sauti is prepared to narrate.[13]
From: Bhagavata Purana
(1) Religious or spiritual stories that impart moral teachings.[14] (2) The holy stories shared about Parikshit, specifically connected with the life of Lord Krishna, which are valuable for philosophical and spiritual insight.[15]
From: Gautami Mahatmya
(1) The storytelling of divine events and philosophies that provide wisdom and moral teachings for spiritual beings.[16] (2) A narrative that destroys Alakshmi (poverty, ignominy, etc.).[17]
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) The account or story shared by Viswamitra regarding Sukadeva and his pursuit of truth, which serves to illustrate the journey towards spiritual understanding.[18]
From: Lalitopakhyana (Lalita Mahatmya)
(1) The storytelling of the battle and actions of Lalita that brings purification and spiritual enlightenment.[19]
From: Brahma Purana
(1) Refers to the told story of the origin of Devas, which holds spiritual significance and moral teachings.[20]
From: Brahmanda Purana
(1) The recounting of holy stories in Hindu tradition that convey moral and spiritual lessons, often intertwined with the lives of deities.[21]
From: Linga Purana
(1) The recounting of divine stories or scripts that convey spiritual teachings and higher truths, aimed at achieving understanding and connection with the divine.[22]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) Legends and stories that detail the lives and interactions of divine figures, revealing moral and cosmic truths.[23]
From: Padma Purana
(1) The recounting of Rama's story, which serves to purify listeners and grant them spiritual rewards.[24]
From: Narayaniya (Narayaneeyam)
(1) Religious tales or stories deemed holy that were to be composed by Apantaratama, aligning with Vedic principles.[25]
The concept of Sacred narrative in local and regional sources
Sacred narratives encompass stories and teachings depicted in temple art, reflecting historical and devotional themes that convey deeply rooted cultural and spiritual significance within a region's religious practices.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) Stories or teachings represented through temple art that convey historical and devotional themes.[26]