Significance of Supreme authority
Supreme authority in Hinduism encompasses various interpretations across different texts and beliefs. It signifies the highest power attained by gods through sacrifices, emphasizing their elevated status and control over the world. In Vaishnavism, it refers to a power exceeding deities, particularly associated with Shri Brahma's governance. Other texts, like the Purana, highlight supreme authority as control over kingdoms and moral integrity in rulership. Furthermore, Kavya depicts a respected earthly king, while Dharmashastra identifies it with the teacher as a source of knowledge.
Synonyms: Highest power, Ultimate control, Sovereign authority, Absolute authority, Paramount power, Sovereignty, Dominance, Supremacy, Control, Power, Command, Rule
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Supreme authority'
In Hinduism, Supreme authority encompasses the foremost source of knowledge and ultimate power derived from rituals and sacrifices, pivotal for deities' governance, underscoring respect for rulers like King Jyotishprabha and figures like Mahakarni.
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) The ultimate power held by Mahakarni over the state in the absence of King Amvuvica's active rule.[1] (2) The ultimate power that the minister, Mahakarni, gained over the kingdom through the king's inattentiveness.[2]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki
(1) The power and control that Ravana offers Sita if she accepts his proposal.[3] (2) The highest level of power and control, which Hanuman believes Angada has usurped.[4]
From: Padma Purana
(1) Refers to the king's ultimate power and duty to rule over his kingdom with justice and moral integrity.[5]
From: Brahma Purana
(1) The highest level of power and governance over all deities and creation.[6]
From: Bhagavata Purana
(1) The ultimate power held by the Lord, manifested through His divine attributes and actions.[7]
From: Satapatha-brahmana
(1) The power and dominion that the gods gained through sacrifices, signifying the importance of such rituals in spiritual hierarchy.[8] (2) The ultimate power held by the gods gained through the Great Oblation.[9] (3) The power that the gods attained through the performance of Seasonal sacrifices, allowing them to wield control.[10] (4) The highest level of power attained by the gods through their victory over Vritra.[11] (5) The elevated power and dominion the gods achieved through the Great Oblation.[12]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) Refers to the highest level of governance and control that Shri Brahma holds over all living entities and cosmic principles.[13]
From: Tiruvaymoli (Thiruvaimozhi): English translation
(1) The highest power that is suggested to surpass the deities, prompting worship and reverence.[14]
From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)
(1) A description of King Jyotishprabha who rules the earth and is depicted as honorable and respected.[15]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) Supreme authority refers to the foremost person from whom knowledge is acquired, usually a teacher.[16]