Significance of Sought refuge
Sought refuge refers to the act of seeking protection, safety, and spiritual guidance from divine beings across various traditions. In Jainism, it denotes finding safety through the Jina. Vaishnavism reflects this through the act of turning to the Lord for solace. The Purana presents multiple instances, such as the Earth's appeal to Lord Narayana and various gods seeking support from Shiva amid their challenges. This concept highlights a universal human inclination to seek refuge in higher powers during distressing times.
Synonyms: Sought shelter, Sought protection, Sought asylum, Escaped danger, Took refuge
In Dutch: Gezocht toevluchtsoord; In Finnish: Haki turvapaikkaa
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Sought refuge'
In Hinduism, "Sought refuge" encompasses acts of seeking divine protection and support, illustrating a profound spiritual connection with deities like Vishnu, Shiva, and Brahma during distress, as demonstrated by various characters in mythological narratives.
From: Shiva Purana
(1) Indicates the gods’ reliance on Shiva for divine protection and support.[1] (2) The act of turning to someone or something for support or protection, as the gods and sages did towards Shiva against Bhima.[2] (3) The act of turning to Bhadrayu by the distressed characters, reflecting their trust in his ability to protect.[3] (4) The act of seeking protection or assistance from a higher power, in this case, from Vishnu.[4] (5) The action taken by the gods led by Indra, looking for safety and support in the face of Taraka's tyranny.[5]
From: Skanda Purana
(1) The act of seeking protection, support, or guidance during times of distress, as Simantini did when faced with her fears.[6] (2) The plea of the Devas for protection from the terror instilled by Daruka, turning to Shiva for help.[7] (3) Andhaka’s plea for salvation, illustrating his desire for protection by the deity in his moment of weakness.[8] (4) The act of seeking protection and divine grace in times of distress, as expressed by Indradyumna.[9] (5) The action taken by the Devas as they turn to God Brahma for help, highlighting their need for divine support.[10]
From: Padma Purana
(1) The act of Indra and other gods turning to Shiva for protection against the threat posed by Andhaka.[11] (2) The act of turning to Krishna or a deity for safety and spiritual shelter.[12] (3) The act of seeking protection or solace in a divine source, in this case, Vasudeva.[13] (4) The act of seeking safety or support, in this text, referring to seeking guidance from spiritual entities.[14]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki
(1) The action taken by the Yakshas as they flee to safety, illustrating their fear and defeat in the face of a mighty opponent.[15] (2) The action taken by the Gods and Rishis to seek safety or help from Maheshwara.[16] (3) The act of Rama seeking shelter and support from Sugriva.[17] (4) The action taken by King Trishanku to approach Shri Vishvamitra for help after experiencing the consequences of the curse.[18]
From: Linga Purana
(1) Indicates Dhruva's act of turning to Vishvamitra for guidance and protection.[19] (2) Refers to the act of the Devas seeking protection and help from higher powers.[20] (3) The act of turning to a higher power for safety and salvation, exemplified by the Devas seeking help from Vishnu.[21]
From: Harivamsha Purana
(1) The act of the Earth seeking protection from the Lord Narayana amid her suffering and challenges.[22] (2) The action taken by the gods to seek protection from Vishnu against the tyranny of Hiranyakashipu.[23] (3) The moon's act of looking for shelter and redemption from his father Atri following his illness.[24]
From: Bhagavata Purana
(1) The act of requesting protection or help, as experienced by various characters in the narrative.[25] (2) What the Kauravas did when they realized their mistake and turned to Balarama for protection.[26]
From: Gautami Mahatmya
(1) To seek protection and safety, particularly by the Devas during the perilous encounter with Daityas.[27] (2) Describes the act of devotees who take shelter in Shiva, gaining liberation and protection from death and worries.[28]
From: Brahmanda Purana
(1) The action of looking for safety or protection, especially from danger.[29] (2) The act of Varuna appealing to Rama for protection after being overpowered by Rama's intensity.[30]
From: Brahma Purana
(1) The action taken by Markandeya to find safety and support in lord Vishnu amidst the chaos of flooding.[31]
From: Brihaddharma Purana (abridged)
(1) Describes Siva's action of finding solitude from the outrage of people.[32]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) The act of seeking safety or protection, evidenced by the pigeon asking King Vrishadarbha for help.[33]
From: Tiruvaymoli (Thiruvaimozhi): English translation
(1) The act of the Alvar seeking shelter and protection from the Lord, highlighting dependence on Him.[34] (2) Describes the act of seeking protection or solace at the feet of the Lord, signifying a deep spiritual connection.[35]
Jain concept of 'Sought refuge'
In Jainism, "Sought refuge" signifies individuals seeking spiritual shelter and guidance from the Jina, highlighting the importance of divine support in attaining safety and enlightenment on their spiritual journey.
From: Bhagavati-sutra (Viyaha-pannatti)
(1) The action of individuals seeking safety and guidance through the Jina, representing a form of spiritual shelter.[36]