Significance of Supernatural powers
Supernatural power, as discussed across various traditions, refers to extraordinary abilities that enable individuals to perform miraculous feats beyond normal human capacities. In Buddhism, such powers are attributed to beings like Moggallana and the Buddha, showcasing abilities like shape-shifting and influencing nature. Similarly, in Jainism and other philosophies, supernatural abilities often arise through spiritual practices and enlightenment. Overall, supernatural power encompasses a spectrum of extraordinary capabilities linked to advanced spiritual attainments and divine influences across different cultural narratives.
Synonyms: Divine influence, Supernatural ability, Magic, Sorcery, Witchcraft, Mysticism, Enchantment, Divination
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Supernatural powers'
Supernatural power in Buddhism encompasses various extraordinary abilities exhibited by enlightened beings, including the Buddha, achieved through deep meditation, spiritual practices, and miraculous feats, which serve to benefit sentient beings and guide towards enlightenment.
From: The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) Extraordinary abilities developed through intense meditation and practice.[1] (2) Extraordinary abilities developed by the Buddha, enhancing his spiritual prowess and understanding.[2] (3) Extraordinary abilities attained through meditation and mental development, allowing monks special experiences.[3] (4) Extraordinary abilities exhibited by the Buddha to help King Bimbisara recognize the petas waiting for merit-sharing after his charitable deeds.[4] (5) Extraordinary abilities that the ascetic pupils exhibited, allowing them to perform miraculous feats in accordance with their spiritual training.[5]
From: The Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) The supernatural ability used by the ogres to assist King Goodness, symbolizing forces beyond the human realm.[6] (2) The divine ability of Sakka to test the ascetics by making their food disappear.[7] (3) The supernatural ability of the spirit that enables the transportation of the ascetic and his provision of mangoes.[8] (4) The extraordinary abilities of the Bodhisatta that allowed him to communicate profound truths while suspended in mid-air.[9] (5) The abilities that the Bodhisatta developed while living as a hermit in the Himalayas.[10]
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) A special ability attributed to the Buddha that allowed him to perceive the thoughts and situations of individuals.[11] (2) Extraordinary abilities developed through deep meditation and concentration, considered advanced states of spiritual achievement.[12] (3) Buddha’s ability to sense the progress of the monks while they meditated in the forest.[13] (4) Supernatural abilities exhibited by the Buddha to create dark-blue and white rays to influence the environment and the behavior of the companions.[14] (5) The extraordinary ability of the Buddha to manifest a beautiful young lady to help illustrate the transient nature of beauty to Queen Khema.[15]
From: The Catu-Bhanavara-Pali (critical study)
(1) The extraordinary influence attributed to the recitation of the Bojjhanga sutta and other parittas that aids in recovery from illness.[16] (2) The belief that certain chants can generate supernatural effects or invoke assistance from divine beings.[17] (3) The perceived ability of chants and rituals to produce significant spiritual effects or assistance from supernatural forces.[18] (4) The belief in the transformative and protective effects of chanting and music, viewed as a historical aspect of human civilization's welfare.[19] (5) The perceived extraordinary effectiveness of certain chants or rituals, though seen as a metaphor for their psychological benefits rather than literal magic.[20]
From: Visuddhimagga (the pah of purification)
(1) A form of knowledge that pertains to extraordinary abilities and insights associated with mental and spiritual practices.[21] (2) Exceptional abilities or attributes that denote a higher state of existence or realization, often associated with enlightened beings.[22] (3) Extraordinary abilities acquired through deep concentration and meditation, enabling a meditator to perform feats beyond normal human capabilities.[23] (4) Extraordinary mental abilities that allow one to perceive states of consciousness beyond typical human experience.[24] (5) Extraordinary capabilities that, while obtainable through concentration, can impede insight as they are difficult to maintain.[25]
From: Vinaya (2): The Mahavagga
(1) Special capabilities that are perceived as extraordinary or supernatural, exemplified by the abilities of the great Samana.[26] (2) The extraordinary capability that allows the Blessed One to affect natural elements, recognized by the Jatilas.[27] (3) The extraordinary abilities attributed to the Blessed One, often recognized by those around him.[28] (4) The supernatural abilities possessed by both the Naga king and the Blessed One which allow them to perform miraculous feats.[29] (5) The extraordinary abilities possessed by the Blessed One, allowing him to defeat the Naga.[30]
From: Mahavamsa
(1) Abilities beyond normal human capabilities, attributed here to the great theri Samghamitta.[31] (2) Supernatural abilities attributed to certain kings that allowed them to confront challenges, such as the yakkha threatening their subjects.[32] (3) The supernatural capability of the yakkhini that allows her to aid VIJAYA in fighting the yakkhas.[33] (4) Extraordinary abilities attained by individuals, referenced in the context of spiritual achievement.[34]
From: Abhidhamma in Daily Life
(1) Exceptional abilities that may develop as a result of advanced meditative practices, including abilities like mind-reading and recalling past lives.[35] (2) A special ability to know the hidden thoughts or states of consciousness of others.[36]
From: Cetasikas
(1) Extraordinary abilities developed through advanced meditation practices, including magical powers and memory of past lives.[37] (2) Supernormal powers (abhinnas) are abilities developed through meditation practices including jhana and vipassana, where chanda may play a significant role.[38]
From: Abhidhamma in Daily Life (by Ashin Janakabhivamsa)
(1) The extraordinary abilities attained through deep meditation, which can be overshadowed by moha.[39]
From: Guide to Tipitaka
(1) Extraordinary abilities the Buddha utilized to reflect on past precedents set by previous Buddhas in formulating regulations.[40]
From: Introducing Buddhist Abhidhamma
(1) Supernormal powers are extraordinary capabilities that arise from advanced meditative practices, such as the Celestial Ear and Celestial Eye which enable heightened perception beyond normal human abilities.[41]
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) Special abilities or insights that an enlightened being possesses, which can serve to protect and enhance the practice of generosity.[42] (2) Exceptional abilities aimed at expediting the process of delivering beings from their suffering.[43] (3) The ability to perform supernatural feats, which is categorized into four bases that warrant thorough examination.[44] (4) The immense superknowledge that a person gains through dhyanas, allowing them to travel and praise the Three Jewels.[45] (5) Powers known as abhijna that allow a rishi to perform extraordinary feats and influence events significantly.[46]
From: The Mahavastu (great story)
(1) Abilities attained by Maha-Maudgalyayana following his ordination, reflecting mastery over supernatural skills.[47] (2) The supernatural ability demonstrated by the Exalted One, such as transforming bowls and causing the myrobalan tree to grow.[48] (3) The ability of Mara's daughters to transform and tempt, which ultimately failed against the Buddha's resolve.[49] (4) The supernatural capacity attributed to Mara's daughters, reflecting their attempts to seduce the Buddha with illusions.[50] (5) Special abilities or insights that a Buddha may possess, often associated with their enlightenment and teaching.[51]
From: Vimalakirti Nirdesa Sutra
(1) The extraordinary abilities attributed to enlightened beings that allow for miraculous demonstrations and transformations.[52] (2) The divine abilities attributed to Buddhas and bodhisattvas allowing them to guide others, as seen when the gods spoke to Candracchattra.[53] (3) Extraordinary abilities exemplified by the bodhisattvas, allowing for miraculous actions and the accomplishment of the Buddha-work.[54] (4) The ability of the goddess to perform transformations, illustrating the concept of impermanence and illusion.[55] (5) Supernormal powers are extraordinary abilities demonstrated by Vimalakirti, showcasing his unique spiritual achievements and status.[56]
From: Lotus Sutra (Saddharma-Pundarika)
(1) Extraordinary abilities attributed to the Tathagatas, allowing them to manifest teachings and create conditions conducive to enlightenment.[57] (2) Extraordinary abilities that will be possessed by the beings in the future Buddha-field.[58] (3) The extraordinary abilities exhibited by the young princes which enable them to perform miracles and gain favor from their father.[59] (4) The extraordinary abilities employed by Tathagatas and Bodhisattvas, often illustrating their mastery over the natural world.[60] (5) Special abilities attributed to enlightened beings which allow them to perform extraordinary feats and teachings.[61]
From: Vimalakirti Nirdesa Sutra
(1) Extraordinary abilities that allow Vimalakirti to teach and influence others in spiritual matters.[62] (2) Extraordinary abilities that allow enlightenment and transformation of forms.[63] (3) Extraordinary abilities that allow Bodhisattvas to manipulate reality and demonstrate their profound insight into the nature of existence.[64]
From: Buddhacarita
(1) Extraordinary abilities possessed by enlightened beings, often seen as miraculous or divine in nature.[65] (2) Extraordinary abilities possessed by the Buddha, demonstrated when he rose into the sky holding the sun and moon.[66]
From: Bodhisattvacharyavatara
(1) Abilities exhibited by arhats when passing away, showcasing their high-level realizations.[67]
From: Shurangama Sutra (with commentary by Hsuan Hua)
(1) The enhanced abilities that one may mistakenly believe they have attained, leading to arrogance and vulnerability to negative forces.[68]
From: The Sutra of Queen Śrīmālā of the Lion’s Roar
(1) Supernatural powers refer to advanced abilities attained by arhats, pratyekabuddhas, and powerful bodhisattvas as a result of their deep spiritual practice.[69]
From: Sūtra of the Great Vow of Kṣitigarbha Bodhisattva
(1) Extraordinary abilities possessed by the Buddha to perform extraordinary tasks and influence countless beings.[70]
From: The Sutra of the Past Vows of Earth Store Bodhisattva
(1) Extraordinary abilities that allow individuals to perform acts beyond normal human capabilities, often associated with enlightened beings.[71]
From: Blue Annals (deb-ther sngon-po)
(1) The extraordinary abilities observed during the struggles with supernatural forces while practicing at rgya bo.[72] (2) Extraordinary abilities often attributed to advanced practitioners in Buddhism, such as healing or clairvoyance.[73] (3) Extraordinary abilities often attributed to enlightened beings, enabling them to perform miraculous acts or influence the physical world.[74] (4) Extrasensory abilities exhibited by the Dharmasvamin, enabling him to demonstrate his spiritual authority.[75] (5) Five abilities that were conferred upon sangs rgyas ras chen.[76]
From: The Tattvasangraha [with commentary]
(1) Supernatural abilities attributed to certain substances that enable extraordinary effects or perceptions.[77]
From: The Six Yogas of Naropa
(1) A unique capability of the Bardoist to perform miraculous feats, such as passing through solid matter.[78]
From: Apadana commentary (Atthakatha)
(1) Refers to extraordinary abilities that are believed to be cultivated through mental discipline and insight, sometimes attributed to enlightened beings.[79] (2) Extraordinary abilities possessed by Sumedha, as he showcased when he planned to level the road for the Buddha's arrival.[80] (3) The ability possessed by the silent buddha to manipulate reality, as demonstrated by showing the prince another monastery.[81] (4) The extraordinary abilities that some practitioners of Buddhism attain, allowing them feats such as shape-shifting and influencing others.[82] (5) Abilities demonstrated by certain beings in Buddhist literature that enable extraordinary feats, often linked to spiritual attainment.[83]
Hindu concept of 'Supernatural powers'
Supernatural power in Hinduism encompasses abilities (siddhis) gained through yoga, rituals, and divine intervention, showcasing extraordinary capabilities that transcend normal human limits, often leading to a contrasting pursuit against spiritual liberation.
From: The Skanda Purana
(1) Supernatural power is obtained by the sage through the repetition of the Tryambaka Mantra, signifying the transformative effects of this spiritual practice.[84] (2) Extraordinary abilities or qualities, often attributed to divine beings or those who have cultivated spiritual practices.[85] (3) Supernatural abilities granted by divine entities, sometimes acquired through specific rituals and practices.[86] (4) The Siddhis, which are extraordinary abilities granted to devotees through worship of Linga.[87] (5) The abilities taken away from the Devas by Taraka.[88]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki
(1) The supernatural ability to perform spells and illusions.[89] (2) The extraordinary abilities possessed by both Bali and the being at the door, indicating their higher status.[90] (3) The capabilities used by Ravana to transform and gain advantage in the battle, reflecting his Rakshasa nature.[91] (4) Denotes the divine abilities that the Gods and other spiritual entities possess.[92] (5) The special abilities possessed by enemies, in particular referring to Ravana's exceptional magical capabilities in warfare.[93]
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) Extraordinary abilities gained by the Rakshasi through her dedication to yoga, enabling her to fight off threats and ailments.[94] (2) The extraordinary abilities that could be used to take Rama away from the king, leading to his despair.[95] (3) The capabilities that may be produced when the mind is directed properly and subjugated.[96] (4) Extraordinary abilities that emerge from sustained practice and enlightenment, often linked to mastery over meditation and the mind.[97] (5) Abilities beyond the normal physical capabilities, often sought after by those overlooking the true path of spirituality.[98]
From: The Padma Purana
(1) Extraordinary abilities attributed to Garuda after receiving a special pill from Vishnu.[99] (2) The extraordinary and divine capabilities exhibited by Lord Vishnu, indicating his omnipotence.[100] (3) Extraordinary abilities possessed by celestial beings that can influence the material world and outcomes.[101] (4) The divine capability demonstrated by Lord Krishna to manipulate reality, portrayed in the narrative of his birth and deeds.[102] (5) Supernatural power refers to the divine force that allows beings like Vishnu to perform miraculous feats.[103]
From: The Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) Abilities attributed to divine beings like Indra and Agni, often relating to control over natural and cosmic phenomena.[104] (2) The extraordinary abilities, such as Anima and Laghima, attained by advanced practitioners of Yoga.[105] (3) Special abilities held by characters, particularly Narayana, enhancing the stakes of their struggle.[106] (4) The innate abilities of the Devi which cannot be fully understood by other beings.[107] (5) The ability attributed to Vishnu to assume various forms, which reflects on the themes of transformation and deception.[108]
From: The Bhagavata Purana
(1) Extraordinary abilities that may manifest during deep yogic practice but are regarded as distractions and not the ultimate goal of spiritual life.[109] (2) An extraordinary ability that enables a yogin to perform various feats, such as atomization, levitation, and magnification.[110] (3) Abilities obtained from the earth that enable beings to become invisible at will.[111]
From: The Vishnu Purana
(1) The mystical ability possessed by Citralekha that enables her to assist Usha in her quest to find her dream lover.[112] (2) The supernatural abilities wielded by the nymph Citralekha, allowing her to bring Aniruddha to Bana's palace.[113] (3) Mayadevi gives Pradyumna her magic and illusive powers, signifying the deep connection between them.[114]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) An assumed ability to perform extraordinary feats, questioned in the narrative regarding the nature of curses and actions.[115] (2) The extraordinary abilities held by the Rishis, allowing them to influence events in the divine realm.[116]
From: The Nilamata Purana
(1) The unique ability granted to individuals in the text, allowing them to achieve extraordinary feats.[117] (2) The divine capability through which the sage Kasyapa and others executed extraordinary feats.[118]
From: The Shiva Purana
(1) Refers to the delusive nature of Shiva's presence that confounds mortals, including Mena.[119] (2) Refers to Shiva’s supernatural abilities that are acknowledged by the gods as beyond their understanding.[120]
From: The Agni Purana
(1) Exceptional abilities that devotees hope to gain through effective worship of the Goddess Tvarita.[121] (2) Extraordinary abilities possessed by sages and sea-dwelling persons, allowing them to interact with divine processes.[122]
From: The Markandeya Purana
(1) The supernatural abilities attributed to beings exempt from gross elements, hinting at the nature of the illusion presented by Ashvatara.[123] (2) Powers or abilities that transcend the natural world, often sought by yogis.[124]
From: The Markandeya Purana (Study)
(1) Extraordinary abilities that can be developed by individuals who achieve adeptness in yoga.[125]
From: The Vishnu Purana (Taylor)
(1) Supernatural abilities deployed by Bana to bind Aniruddha, showcasing his prowess in combat.[126]
From: The Gautami Mahatmya
(1) The supernatural ability attributed to Paulastya Tirtha that restores a lost kingdom.[127]
From: Lalitopakhyana (Lalita Mahatmya)
(1) A supernatural ability highlighted in the defeat of Karanka and his generals.[128]
From: The Brahma Purana
(1) Abilities that may stem from high moral character and spiritual attainment, affecting one’s journey through life.[129]
From: The Brahmanda Purana
(1) Extraordinary abilities that can be attained through spiritual practice, mentioned as a blessing for the sages.[130]
From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)
(1) Supernatural abilities associated with divinity that can alter reality and grant prolonged life.[131] (2) Abilities attributed to various characters, including the Vetala and the witches, which shape the events in the narrative and add a mystical element.[132] (3) The ability demonstrated by Yaugandharayana to alter appearances and use spells for various purposes, including breaking chains.[133] (4) Extraordinary abilities purported to be possessed by the Bodhisattva that allow him to perform miraculous deeds.[134] (5) A theme within the stories that describes the ability to perform supernatural feats, often through ascetic practices.[135]
From: Jarasandhavadha Mahakavyam
(1) The capabilities of the female demon Jara that led to the unusual birth of Jarasandha.[136] (2) The supernatural abilities attributed to Krishna that make him seem invincible to his enemies.[137]
From: Malatimadhava (study)
(1) Extraordinary abilities displayed by characters, such as flying and invisibility, indicating elements of magic and myth in the narrative.[138]
From: Yoga-sutras (Ancient and Modern Interpretations)
(1) Ancient and Modern interpretation: [Read “Siddhis—Supernormal powers” first][139] (2) Refers to abilities or capabilities that go beyond the ordinary human experience, often discussed in spiritual or mystical contexts.[140] (3) Refers to extraordinary abilities that can be attained through rigorous yoga practice, described in Digha Nikaya Pathikavaggo.[141] (4) Abilities that allow individuals to perform extraordinary feats, such as moving objects without physical contact, through yoga and samadhi.[142] (5) Siddhis, which are extraordinary capabilities that might be gained through advanced practices.[143]
From: Bhagavatpadabhyudaya by Lakshmana Suri (study)
(1) Attributions made to Shankara by biographers, conferring extraordinary abilities and miracles.[144] (2) The divine force or Maya attributed to God that is responsible for the origination of the world, as mentioned in the Shvetashvetara.[145]
From: Chandogya Upanishad (Shankara Bhashya)
(1) Abilities attributed to Raikva, allowing him to understand the thoughts and feelings of others, as indicated by his address to Janashruti’s great-grandson.[146]
From: Mandukya Upanishad
(1) A force or influence that is beyond the natural and is responsible for the creation and control of creatures.[147]
From: Amarakoshodghatana of Kshirasvamin (study)
(1) Known as vibhutih, these powers are described as eight specific abilities attained through advanced Yoga practice.[148] (2) Endowed capabilities that surpass ordinary human powers, part of the six abhijnas.[149]
From: Vakyapadiya of Bhartrihari
(1) The eight abilities attained through yoga that enhance one's capacity, noted in the context of achieving completeness.[150]
From: Lakulisha-Pashupata (Philosophy and Practice)
(1) Extraordinary abilities attributed to figures like the Jogi, enabling them to perform miraculous feats, such as granting offspring or restoring life.[151] (2) Extraordinary capabilities that ascetics acquire through prolonged austerities and disciplined practices, enabling them to interact with divine forces.[152]
From: Sivaprakasam (Study in Bondage and Liberation)
(1) Abilities or Siddhis gained through yoga practice, considered a contrasting goal to liberation.[153]
From: Kautilya Arthashastra
(1) Alleged abilities that enable individuals to perform extraordinary feats, such as causing rapid speed or invisibility.[154] (2) An extraordinary ability or influence attributed to individuals, used by spies for espionage.[155]
From: Dasarupaka (critical study)
(1) The supernatural ability demonstrated by Siddhimati used to influence the characters' fates and facilitate the plot.[156]
From: Shakti and Shakta
(1) Abilities that extend beyond normal human faculties, developed through magical practices and heightened mental capacities.[157]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) A unique capability surpassing natural laws, attributed to Agni, Vayu, Surya, and other gods.[158]
From: Nyayakusumanjali of Udayana (study)
(1) Extraordinary abilities acquired by sages through rigorous practice of yoga, enabling them to understand profound truths.[159]
Jain concept of 'Supernatural powers'
In Jainism, supernatural power (riddhi) encompasses extraordinary abilities acquired through austerities, indicating divine status, enabling mastery over existence, embodying enlightenment, and facilitating remarkable feats beyond ordinary human capabilities.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) The remarkable abilities attributed to the Lord, enabling control over various aspects of existence.[160] (2) The abilities that allow transformation and manipulation of forms, signifying supernatural strength.[161] (3) Extraordinary abilities that transcend natural limitations, attributed to divine or enlightened beings.[162] (4) Divine abilities attributed to the Master that evoke amazement and wonder among people.[163] (5) Extraordinary abilities that adorn the Lord, signifying his divine nature.[164]
From: Tattvartha Sutra (with commentary)
(1) A claimed ability of Acarya Pujyapada to visit divine realms, demonstrating his esteemed spiritual status.[165] (2) Powers that enable an ascetic to achieve higher states or forms, but which do not allow possession of all five types of bodies simultaneously.[166] (3) Supernatural powers (riddhi) are linked to the concept of attainment (labdhi), which results in the creation of the luminous body.[167] (4) Supernatural powers (riddhi) are abilities that are acquired through special austerities (tapa) and are essential for achieving the state of labdhipratyaya.[168]
From: Bhagavati-sutra (Viyaha-pannatti)
(1) Discussions about various powers, including vikurvana and samudghata, attributed to sub-human, human, and celestial beings.[169]
The concept of 'Supernatural powers' in local and regional sources
Supernatural power in the text encompasses extraordinary abilities derived from spiritual entities and folklore. It includes the mystical capabilities of characters, like shape-shifting and combat prowess, emphasizing the influence of divine and supernatural forces in ancient Javanese culture.
From: Village Folk-tales of Ceylon (Sri Lanka), vol. 1-3
(1) The magical abilities associated with the characters, specifically the three Princesses who help the Prince.[170] (2) A supernatural aspect associated with the character Pushpadanta who listens to Siva's story unnoticed.[171] (3) The abilities exhibited by characters in the stories, allowing them to change their forms and manipulate situations.[172] (4) The extraordinary abilities possessed by Tamarind Tikka and other characters, influencing their fates.[173] (5) The abilities possessed by the Glass Princess that allow her to disguise herself and fly through the air.[174]
From: Buddhist records of the Western world (Xuanzang)
(1) Powers attributed to a Rishi who lived on a high precipice, signifying spiritual or mystical abilities.[175]
From: Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints
(1) Extraordinary abilities or forces that transcend the natural world, often ascribed to divine or mystical beings.[176] (2) The eight extraordinary abilities that serve the god.[177]
From: Folk Tales of Gujarat (and Jhaverchand Meghani)
(1) The supernatural abilities demonstrated by characters like Gangli and Galabgodiya.[178]
From: Folklore of the Santal Parganas
(1) The special ability conferred upon the prince's wife by the snake, allowing her to harm others.[179]
From: Diaspora of Bhuta (Daiva) worshipping cult—India and Indonesia
(1) The extraordinary abilities ascribed to the invisible spiritual entities known as 'Hyang' in ancient Javanese culture.[180]