Significance of Six persons
The term "Six persons" is used in various contexts across South Asia. In relation to thieves, it refers to those who orchestrate heists while a foolish accomplice is excluded. Within Vaishnavism, it denotes different groups including individuals affected by Indra's thunderbolt, those who laughed, and others who fulfilled duties to Lord Vishnu. In Dharmashastra, it identifies individuals entitled to the Arghya reception, consisting of teachers, priests, and relatives, highlighting their roles in cultural and religious practices.
Synonyms: Six subjects
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Six persons'
In Hinduism, the "Six persons" encompasses diverse roles: those who endured Indra's trials, honored divine orders, received Arghya, accompanied Krishna, and transitioned from demigods, highlighting various spiritual and social relationships.
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) A group that Krishna and Balarama took with them to their mother.[1] (2) A group consisting of six individuals who reacted with laughter.[2] (3) The individuals who relinquished their bodies of demigods to be born in Hiranyakashipu's house.[3] (4) Refers to the individuals who experienced hardships due to Indra's thunderbolt.[4] (5) The individuals who received and accepted the Lord's order with respect.[5]
From: Gobhila-grihya-sutra
(1) The specified individuals who are entitled to receive the Arghya reception, including teachers, priests, and close relatives.[6]
From: Khadira-grihya-sutra
(1) The six individuals to whom the Arghya reception is due, including a teacher, officiating priest, Snataka, king, father-in-law, and friend.[7]
From: Sankhayana-grihya-sutra
(1) Refers to specific individuals mentioned in the Shrauta-sutra who are recipients of the Arghya reception during rituals.[8]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) Refers to the group consisting of the five Pandavas and their mother, Kunti, planning to flee.[9]
The concept of Six persons in local and regional sources
The phrase "Six persons" indicates a group of thieves who strategize their criminal activities, often leaving a reckless member out of their plans to ensure successful executions of their robberies.
From: Village Folk-tales of Ceylon (Sri Lanka), vol. 1-3
(1) Refers to the remaining thieves who often plan and execute their robberies while excluding the foolish thief from direct action.[10]