Significance of Supreme Being
Synonyms: God, Deity, Divine entity, Creator, Higher power, Omnipotent being, Ultimate reality, Almighty, Divine
In Dutch: Opperwezen; In Finnish: Korkein Olento; In Spanish: Ser supremo; In Portugese: Ser supremo; In German: Höchstes Wesen; In Malay: Maha Agung; In Swedish: Högsta Varelsen; In French: Être suprême; In Polish: Najwyższa Istota; In Italian: Essere Supremo
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Supreme Being'
In Buddhism, the term "Supreme Being" can be interpreted as the Buddha, who embodies enlightenment and profound virtues, guiding others, symbolizing the highest spiritual status, and, at times, regarded as a controlling higher entity.
From: Maha Buddhavamsa—The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) A reference to the Buddha, indicating His exalted status and spiritual significance.[1] (2) Another term for Bodhisattas that highlights their elevated status due to their profound virtues.[2] (3) Refers to the Buddha, who has fulfilled the aspects of a Bodhisatta and achieved enlightenment.[3]
From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) The theological belief held by one of the councillors that everything is controlled by a higher entity.[4]
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) Indicates the supreme status of the Buddha compared to all beings outside of Buddhas.[5]
From: The Great Chariot
(1) An ultimate or highest spiritual entity that serves as a source of guidance for other beings.[6]
Hindu concept of 'Supreme Being'
In Hinduism, the Supreme Being embodies the ultimate reality and divine essence from which all creation emanates. This entity, often referred to as Brahman or Vasudeva, represents respect, devotion, and a source of inner spiritual connection.
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) Implies that the omnipotent being retains its potency everywhere, even while appearing as empty air.[7] (2) The mind originates from the essence of the Supreme being, sharing a connection but also exhibiting differences, likened to the relationship between waves and the sea.[8] (3) It has no beginning or end, nor of his acts and attributes displayed in nature.[9] (4) Knowledge derived from one's intuition and felt in our consciousness alone.[10] (5) By knowing all this, saints live fearless by reflecting on this in themselves, moving about liberated with equanimity.[11]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) The supreme being can be reached without delay by the ascetic who is engaged in devotion, as they follow a path of dedication and spiritual practice.[12] (2) One should, for obtaining the favours of the Supreme Being, do that which is for the good of all creatures as also for his own happiness, for it is this which is the root of the successful of all one’s objects.[13] (3) This is described in the Vaks, the Anuvaks, the Nishads, and Upanishads.[14] (4) The Supreme Being is adored and worshipped by Sanatkumar and other ascetics endued with Yoga and is referred to as Hari.[15] (5) The Supreme Being, along with the three worlds, is an aspect that rests on Self-consciousness, as described in the provided text.[16]
From: Vishnu Purana
(1) The supreme being refers to Krishna, whose essence is revealed at the moment of death, leading to purification and blending with him.[17] (2) Khatvanga was united with the supreme being, Vasudeva, after his time on earth.[18] (3) The imperishable is this, while the perishable is all the world, highlighting the contrast between the eternal and the transient.[19] (4) The ultimate divine entity, which serves as a focal point of devotion and opposition within the narrative.[20] (5) Refers to Vishnu as the highest deity, embodying ultimate reality and divine presence in the universe.[21]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) An ultimate deity or divine entity, often referred to as the source of all existence.[22] (2) Referred to as the Param Brahma, the ultimate cause of the universe, transcending comprehension by standard proofs.[23]
From: Bhagavadgita
(1) The highest self, regarded as the inexhaustible lord, pervades the three worlds and symbolizes the ultimate reality.[24] (2) The Brahman is characterized as the supreme and indestructible essence, representing the ultimate spiritual reality.[25]
From: Harivamsha Purana
(1) He, that is the power of retention, the prosperity, and the revelation of mysteries to that high-souled person who devoutly seeks the Supreme Being—surely that God will put an end to all our miseries.[26] (2) Referring to Krishna, who encompasses power and compassion, exemplified by his actions to protect the Gopas and their cows.[27]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Shastri)
(1) Refers to a powerful entity holding dominion over others, specifically Bali’s description of the being at the door.[28]
From: Gautami Mahatmya
(1) The ultimate deceased one who is to be understood through worship, above all distinctions.[29]
From: Markandeya Purana
(1) The ultimate object of religious knowledge and devotion, representing the highest spiritual goal in the belief system discussed.[30]
From: Chandogya Upanishad (english Translation)
(1) The ultimate entity revered in spiritual practices, identified in the text with the chief prana and udgitha.[31] (2) The ultimate reality or existence that the individual self (the microcosm) aspires to merge with after transcending the limitations of the body.[32] (3) a divine entity or ultimate reality that is central to various spiritual and religious beliefs.[33]
From: Isopanisad (Madhva commentary)
(1) The "supreme being" is a central figure that possesses qualities of omnipresence and invincibility, inspiring reverence and awe, as described by the text.[34] (2) Refers to the ultimate personification of existence, embodying the characteristics of totality and transcendence.[35]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad
(1) The Supreme Being would not exist if he is identical with the Supreme Atman and subject to the misery of samsara.[36] (2) This term identifies Brahman as the ultimate reality that transcends all attributes of the material world.[37]
From: Brahma Sutras (Shankara Bhashya)
(1) An entity of ultimate importance is discussed, and its relationship with the individual's elements after enlightenment is explained in detail.[38] (2) Another term used for Brahman, emphasizing its ultimate authority and presence in all forms of life.[39]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad Bhashya Vartika
(1) The ultimate reality or existence, often referred to as Brahman, which is devoid of form and attributes.[40]
From: Vivekachudamani
(1) Describes the ultimate reality or divine essence that governs existence.[41]
From: Brahma Sutras (Shankaracharya)
(1) The ultimate divine entity from which all things are understood to emanate, including everything from Brahman to a blade of grass.[42]
From: Thirty minor Upanishads
(1) Represents the ultimate reality or divine essence that transcends all other elements, highlighting a state beyond existence and non-existence.[43]
From: Brahma Sutras (Ramanuja)
(1) A term synonymous with Brahman which denotes the highest spiritual reality.[44]
From: Brihadaranyaka Upanishad
(1) The provided text states that the Supreme Being entered the bodies and transformed Himself in accordance with each form, making Himself known in the process.[45]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) The prayers are directed toward this entity, indicating a position of ultimate authority and reverence within the observed divine interaction and the celestial hierarchy.[46] (2) A divine entity of which someone is considered a part, implying a connection to ultimate power and authority.[47] (3) The ultimate reality and the object of devotion, whom individuals seek to please through constant recitation of divine names.[48] (4) A supreme being is alluded to through the idea of the Lord of innumerable universes, who possesses ultimate power and authority over all creation and existence.[49] (5) Devotion to this entity is identified as the most valuable treasure, a pursuit eternally embraced by figures such as Lakshmi, Brahma and Shiva.[50]
From: Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu
(1) The Lord is considered a supreme being, indicating the highest level of divinity and authority, which inspires the devotee's intense desire to see Him.[51] (2) The ultimate reality, referred to as the unborn Supreme, whose presence evokes deep emotions and transformative experiences in devotees, representing the Supreme Being.[52]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) It refers to the ultimate reality, the source of everything, possessing infinite power and magnificence, often associated with names like Krishna or Hari.[53] (2) It is the entity being addressed and glorified throughout the text.[54]
From: Haribhakti-sudhodaya
(1) Refers to the ultimate divine essence that oversees and governs the universe, identified with Lord Sri Nrisimhadeva.[55]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) Observed to be pleased by yajna offerings in a specific form, also known as the thousand-headed Bhagavan, the divine form of yajna.[56]
From: Tiruvacakam Part I
(1) The unique Being whose wondrous and admirable sublimity cannot be fully comprehended by any finite beings, gods or men.[57]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) The entity described within the text, associated with the creation of water and the name Nara.[58] (2) Describes a person equal to a higher spiritual authority, residing in the hearts of the populace and connected to governance.[59] (3) A reference to a divine entity, regarded as residing in the hearts of the people.[60] (4) The Creator, as described by Nandana, whose actions during Dissolution and creation are delineated in the verses.[61] (5) The ultimate reality or entity that some philosophers postulate as having existed eternally and as being the creator of Brahma and the Vedas.[62]
From: The Sarva-Darsana-Samgraha
(1) The Supreme Being of the Khoi-Khoi is represented by Tsuni-||Goam, offering a valuable contribution to the comparative study of religion and mythology.[63] (2) An additional principle included in the Sankhya system that represents an unblemished Soul responsible for creation.[64] (3) A theological concept that refers to an ultimate creator or authority that imparts knowledge and maintains order.[65] (4) Concept in Shaiva-darshana viewed as a dependent cause of actions, contrasting with the idea of an independent cause.[66] (5) The true means of escape from pain and reality, as understood through passages from scriptures.[67]
From: Parama Samhita (English translation)
(1) Also known as Purusha, having become Kala, sits and turns the wheel of time perpetually.[68]
Jain concept of 'Supreme Being'
In Jainism, the Supreme Being signifies the five supreme beings who embody key spiritual figures within the religion's hierarchy, each representing vital principles and ideals central to Jain beliefs and practices.
From: Tattvartha Sutra (with commentary)
(1) This symbolizes the five supreme beings in Jainism, as explained in the text, representing key figures in the religion's spiritual hierarchy.[69]
The concept of Supreme Being in local and regional sources
The "Supreme Being" encompasses diverse interpretations, representing the ultimate source of creativity, divinity, and reality across various philosophies and spiritual beliefs, particularly in Hindu thought, signifying a unity of existence and consciousness.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) The universe is the embodiment of the Supreme Being, also called God, and this Being possesses inexhaustible vitality and incessantly exhibits Itself in creation, so the core of the Vedic philosophy is the faith that the universe is the embodiment of the Supreme Being.[70] (2) It is the ultimate goal of life, representing the unification with, which is achieved through ritualistic discipline, washing away dirt and impurities, and pursuing the highest aspirations of existence.[71] (3) This is the Source of All, and Hinduism teaches as a fact the unity of all things in the One Absolute Self.[72] (4) Tyagaraja followed the old Smaarta traditions of worshipping all the deities in different forms of one Supreme Being.[73] (5) It is the knowledge that sattva, the highest of the three gunas, is the gateway to understanding.[74]
From: Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints
(1) The Supreme Being is referenced in the account where Jayadev's book was found placed near Him, signifying divine acceptance and superiority over the king's book.[75] (2) This is a reference to a deity who is described as the Helper of the helpless and an Ocean of mercy.[76] (3) The highest form of existence, representing God as an all-powerful and all-knowing entity.[77] (4) A reference to God, whom followers serve and love.[78] (5) A reference to the highest divine entity that brings comfort where love is present.[79]
From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda
(1) This is a term that refers to a higher power, and the pursuit of this being is sometimes viewed as futile, particularly by the educated, according to the text.[80] (2) A supreme being is acknowledged by the Dualists, along with a lesser being manifesting in men, but separate.[81] (3) This is the ultimate ruler and is considered sexless and is referred to as 'It,' representing the divine force that governs all.[82]
From: Folklore of the Santal Parganas
(1) Thakur, representing the highest spiritual entity in the Santal belief system.[83]
From: Sanskrit Words In Southeast Asian Languages
(1) This is the entity, according to the Vedantins, who is the efficient and material cause of the visible universe, the all-pervading soul and spirit, and the Creator.[84]
The concept of Supreme Being in scientific sources
Supreme Being, in this context, is a term from regional sources equated with the Catholic God. It is linked to "ziran," which is translated as "Being" itself.
From: Religions Journal (MDPI)
(1) The Supreme Being is a term used to describe God as the ultimate and highest entity, the source of all reality and the foundation of existence, particularly in monotheistic traditions.[85] (2) It refers to the ultimate reality or divine power that is believed to exist in many religious traditions, often associated with attributes such as love, wisdom, and compassion.[86] (3) All things, except the Supreme Being, are made by him out of nothing in the sense that they are not made out of anything, and no absurdity results.[87] (4) This refers to the ultimate reality or divine entity, and understanding it requires a disposition in the ultimate form of sahaja-samadhi, free from any tinge of jnana.[88] (5) Turning to for spiritual support is a common practice for older people, offering comfort and a sense of connection to something greater than themselves.[89]
From: Religious Inquiries (Journal)
(1) Supreme being, according to the text, is capable of extraordinary action that is beyond human will, which can prepare the grounds for internal certainty in people.[90] (2) Fayd Kashani views this degree as being peculiar to the sincere servants of God, who have detached themselves from material bonds and truly believed in the unity of the Supreme Being.[91] (3) The provided text describes this as a concept from the Mool Mantra referring to God, whose name is Truth, and is considered the Creator and Primal Being.[92]
Classical concept of 'Supreme Being'
From: Ancient Egypt the Light of the World
(1) The supreme being, or rather these old gods and elemental powers, are to become the servants of his majesty Ra in the new heaven.[93] (2) The provided text mentions the Inuit supreme being Torngarsuk, the Great Spirit, is the 'lord of the breezes', who is the breath of those who are in the firmament.[94] (3) The text states that the four powers are now portrayed as having been emanated from the body of the one Supreme Being, who had now become the Lord over all.[95] (4) In the Book of the Dead, the Great Mother is saluted as the Supreme Being, 'the Only One,' by the name of Sekhet-Bast, the goddess of sexual passion and strong drink.[96]
From: The Gods of the Egyptians Vol 1
(1) An attempt has been made to trace the development of the conception of a supreme being in Egypt, from the earliest times to the period when Osiris became endowed with many of the attributes now ascribed to God Almighty.[97]
From: Legends Of The Gods
(1) This entity was believed to be hidden and concealed in the universal nature, and the people would call upon it to appear and manifest itself to them.[98]
From: The Book of the Dead
(1) It is expressed by the Coptic translators of the Bible using a specific word. This shows that no other word conveyed to their minds their conception.[99]
From: The Nicomachean Ethics of Aristotle
(1) What we do to these and the most godlike of men is to call them blessed and happy. They are considered blessed and happy.[100]