Significance of Superhuman power
Superhuman power in various Indian spiritual traditions refers to extraordinary abilities transcending typical human limitations. In Hinduism, it is linked to meditation practices, while Jainism emphasizes transformative capabilities of the vaikriyika body. Vaishnavism attributes superhuman power to divine beings, such as Lord Krishna, who perform remarkable feats. Similarly, traditions like Yoga and Ayurveda highlight powers attainable through spiritual practices. Overall, superhuman power encompasses divine attributes and extraordinary skills realized through devotion, meditation, and spiritual growth across diverse beliefs.
Synonyms: Extraordinary ability, Superhuman strength, Extraordinary strength, Supernatural ability
In Dutch: Bovenmenselijke kracht; In Finnish: Yli-inhimillinen voima; In Spanish: Poder sobrehumano; In German: Übermenschliche Kraft; In Malay: Kuasa yang luar biasa; In Swedish: Övermänsklig kraft
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Superhuman power'
Superhuman power in Buddhism encompasses extraordinary abilities, including the Buddha's ability to create gold for reverence, the illusionary skills of Mara's daughters to tempt him, and the magical talents of enlightened beings.
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) The extraordinary ability of the Buddha to create a mountain of gold as a demonstration of reverence.[1] (2) The extraordinary abilities that the daughters of Mara used to create illusions in attempts to ensnare the Buddha.[2]
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) Extraordinary abilities possessed by enlightened beings, including various magical and perceptual skills.[3]
Hindu concept of 'Superhuman power'
Superhuman power in Hinduism encompasses extraordinary abilities that transcend human limitations, manifesting through divine entities, spiritual practices, and personal devotion, illustrating themes of ambition, spiritual quests, and the profound influence of deities like Krishna and Shiva.
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) Divine faculties and abilities attributed to the Bhagavan, signifying his omnipotence.[4] (2) The divine abilities attributed to Hari when questioned about his seemingly mortal behaviors.[5]
From: Bhagavad-gita Mahatmya
(1) Extraordinary abilities beyond the normal capabilities of human beings.[6]
From: Vishnu Purana
(1) The extraordinary abilities and spiritual strength that Dhruva aims to acquire through his devotions.[7]
From: Harivamsha Purana
(1) The remarkable influence Krishna holds over his people, leading them to abandon established religions in favor of his teachings.[8]
From: Mandukya Upanishad (Gaudapa Karika and Shankara Bhashya)
(1) Superhuman powers are extraordinary abilities that can be attained by Yogis as a result of their perfection in practice, which remain constant in the past and future.[9] (2) The extraordinary capability attributed to God, believed by some to be the essence behind the process of creation.[10] (3) The extraordinary abilities attributed to God, which manifest in the act of creation.[11]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) Extraordinary abilities exhibited by the Lord to control the Indian Ocean.[12]
From: History of Indian Medicine (and Ayurveda)
(1) The divine entities believed to provide help and answers to human suffering through spiritual invocation.[13]
From: The Sarva-Darsana-Samgraha
(1) Various extraordinary capabilities that arise as fruits of the meditative practices described in the Yoga Shastra.[14]
From: Yoga-sutras (with Bhoja’s Rajamartanda)
(1) Special abilities or strengths that surpass normal human capabilities, acquired through practices such as Samyama focused on virtues like friendliness and mercy.[15]
Jain concept of 'Superhuman power'
In Jainism, Superhuman power encompasses two main aspects: the eight extraordinary abilities related to the vaikriyika body for remarkable transformations, and supernatural skills enabling individuals, like thieves, to perform magical acts and avoid capture.
From: Tattvartha Sutra (with commentary)
(1) The eight kinds of extraordinary abilities associated with the vaikriyika body, which allow for remarkable transformations.[16]
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) An extraordinary and supernatural ability that enables the thief to evade capture and perform magical acts.[17]
The concept of Superhuman power in local and regional sources
Superhuman power encompasses extraordinary abilities, both attributed to leaders like Gandhi and mystical figures like Siddhas and divine beings such as Krishna. It signifies transcendence beyond normal human limits through practices like yoga, embodying humility and faith.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) Extraordinary abilities attributed to Krishna that are often depicted in various stories apart from his historical and religious context.[18] (2) Exceptional abilities attained by individuals through practices like yoga and meditation, surpassing ordinary human limitations.[19] (3) Extraordinary abilities claimed by the Siddhas, including invisibility and bilocation.[20] (4) Extraordinary abilities attributed to great leaders, which Gandhiji disclaimed, emphasizing his faith and humility.[21]
From: Folklore of the Santal Parganas
(1) Extraordinary abilities beyond normal human limits, which the prince lacks.[22]
From: Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints
(1) A unique ability that transcends ordinary human capabilities, exemplified by the ascetic Rampuribawa.[23]
From: History of Science in South Asia
(1) Superhuman powers or abilities, also referred to as aishvarya or siddhi, are obtained by a yogi during his progress towards spiritual liberation, arising in consequence of practicing the eight ancillaries or means of yoga.[24]