Significance of Supreme Being
The concept of Supreme Being is central across various philosophical and religious traditions. In Buddhism, it signifies an ultimate spiritual entity guiding other beings, while Hindu scriptures present it as a higher authority involved in creation and cosmic order. In Vaishnavism, the Supreme Being, often identified as Vishnu, embodies the essence of existence and is characterized by omniscience. Similarly, in Vedanta, the Supreme Being, or Brahman, represents the ultimate reality, transcending all attributes. This multifaceted concept emphasizes the divine essence perceived differently within varying cultural contexts.
Synonyms: God, Deity, Divinity, Supreme entity, Higher power, Creator, Omnipotent being, Ultimate reality, Almighty, Divine being, Omnipotent one
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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 Supreme Being signifies the Buddha’s exalted status, embodying ultimate enlightenment and virtuous qualities. It also reflects the belief in a higher guiding entity and the elevated nature of Bodhisattas in spiritual pursuits.
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 is an eternal, incomprehensible entity, often identified as Vishnu or Brahman, embodying ultimate reality, guiding existence, and representing the highest consciousness sought for spiritual fulfillment and knowledge.
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) The ultimate divine entity or force, often associated with the highest level of spiritual consciousness.[7] (2) The all surpassing entity that, once realized, alleviates doubts and leaves no fear of transmigration.[8] (3) The Supreme Being refers to the ultimate deity governing destiny, emphasizing themes of divine control and cosmic order in the narrative.[9] (4) The ultimate divine presence, which is contemplated either internally or through the external creation.[10] (5) The ultimate divine entity theorized in the text, acting through various forms in the universe.[11]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) The ultimate reality, seen as devoid of attributes and matter, beyond the comprehension of senses.[12] (2) Refers to Narayana, who is described as immutable and the foremost of deities.[13] (3) The ultimate existence encompassing all creation, referenced as Narayana, representing supreme power and authority over the universe.[14] (4) Vasudeva is referred to as the Supreme Being, the God of all Gods, and None superior to him is to be seen.[15] (5) The ultimate divine entity recognized as the highest authority in the universe.[16]
From: Padma Purana
(1) A designation for Krishna, emphasizing his ultimate authority and power in the narrative.[17] (2) Refers to Vishnu, highlighting his highest status among deities.[18] (3) References the ultimate divine source, affirming the nature of God as all-powerful and essential.[19] (4) Refers to the concept of an ultimate deity, distinguished from nature and embodying the highest form of existence.[20] (5) Refers to Vishnu, recognized as the ultimate god in the text, who provides salvation and guidance.[21]
From: Skanda Purana
(1) The highest deity or ultimate power in Hindu theology, around whom many myths and narratives revolve.[22] (2) An ultimate divine entity embodying qualities of compassion, omnipotence, and universality.[23] (3) A term used to describe the embodiment of pure consciousness and the core of existence.[24] (4) The ultimate beings like deities and Brahmanas who hold significant spiritual power and authority.[25] (5) A higher power or deity, which the sage considered while making decisions, particularly in saving the life of the thief.[26]
From: Agni Purana
(1) A glorious divine lotus exists above the Supreme Being.[27] (2) The ultimate reality or divine essence perceived as different manifestations in various beings, emphasized by Brahma.[28] (3) The highest reality or ultimate truth that encompasses all existence, synonymous with Vasudeva or Krishna.[29] (4) The ultimate reality or deity that the image embodies in the installation.[30] (5) The highest form of existence that represents the ultimate reality, which embodies all knowledge and freedom.[31]
From: Bhagavata Purana
(1) The ultimate divine entity from whom the jiva seeks knowledge and liberation from the cycle of samsara.[32] (2) The ultimate reality that encompasses all existence and from whom all beings emerge and return.[33] (3) The ultimate creator from whom all forms of existence spring, associated with the principles of creation and destruction.[34] (4) The ultimate divine essence, manifesting as Lord Krishna, providing joy to the world.[35] (5) The all-pervading divine entity that is responsible for the creation and sustenance of the universe.[36]
From: Brahma Purana
(1) An ultimate designation for lord Shiva, indicating his exalted status in the cosmic hierarchy.[37] (2) A reference to the highest divinity, embodying ultimate reality and consciousness.[38] (3) The Paramatman, cited in sacred texts as the highest reality present for the upliftment of the universe.[39] (4) A term likely referring to the divine essence recognized in the narrative.[40] (5) Refers to Vishnu, who is worshipped in Bharata through sacrifices, and is identified with the ultimate reality.[41]
From: Vishnu Purana
(1) The ultimate divine entity, which serves as a focal point of devotion and opposition within the narrative.[42] (2) Refers to Vishnu as the highest deity, embodying ultimate reality and divine presence in the universe.[43] (3) A reference to Vishnu, considered the ultimate god in the narrative, characterized by his divine attributes and responsibilities.[44] (4) The ultimate spiritual entity that Akrura meditates upon while bathing in the Yamuna, representing spiritual awareness and devotion.[45]
From: Matsya Purana (critical study)
(1) According to the Matsyapurana, the three gods Brahma, Vishnu, and Maheshvara are manifestations of one Supreme Being, linked to the three gunas.[46] (2) Refers to Lord Vishnu's ultimate authority and status above all deities in the universe.[47] (3) A title used to refer to Lord Vishnu, who is central to the beliefs and practices of Vaishnavism.[48] (4) The ultimate reality regarded in some texts as the creative principle and foundation of all existence.[49]
From: Shiva Purana
(1) A description of Lord Shiva highlighting his elevated status in the divine hierarchy and his integral role in the cosmos.[50] (2) A title indicating the highest form of divinity, which includes the realization of universal existence.[51] (3) An all-encompassing entity recognized as the ultimate source of all existence.[52]
From: Bhagavadgita
(1) The highest self, regarded as the inexhaustible lord, pervades the three worlds and symbolizes the ultimate reality.[53] (2) The Brahman is characterized as the supreme and indestructible essence, representing the ultimate spiritual reality.[54]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) An ultimate deity or divine entity, often referred to as the source of all existence.[55] (2) Referred to as the Param Brahma, the ultimate cause of the universe, transcending comprehension by standard proofs.[56]
From: Vishnu Purana (Taylor)
(1) A term used to denote Krishna as the highest deity, embodying power beyond comprehension.[57] (2) Vishnu, regarded as the highest deity within the mythological framework, who provides assistance and divine boons to the gods in their battles.[58]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki
(1) Refers to a powerful entity holding dominion over others, specifically Bali’s description of the being at the door.[59]
From: Harivamsha Purana
(1) Referring to Krishna, who encompasses power and compassion, exemplified by his actions to protect the Gopas and their cows.[60]
From: Gautami Mahatmya
(1) The ultimate deceased one who is to be understood through worship, above all distinctions.[61]
From: Brahmanda Purana
(1) A title that denotes the highest divine power, particularly related to Shiva.[62]
From: Markandeya Purana
(1) The ultimate object of religious knowledge and devotion, representing the highest spiritual goal in the belief system discussed.[63]
From: Chandogya Upanishad (english Translation)
(1) The ultimate entity revered in spiritual practices, identified in the text with the chief prana and udgitha.[64] (2) The ultimate reality or existence that the individual self (the microcosm) aspires to merge with after transcending the limitations of the body.[65] (3) a divine entity or ultimate reality that is central to various spiritual and religious beliefs.[66]
From: Bhagavatpadabhyudaya by Lakshmana Suri (study)
(1) The ultimate reality or source of all existence, which Shankara's disciples sought in their quest for their teacher.[67] (2) A higher power or deity that individuals seek to worship and which satisfies their psychological urges for understanding and spiritual fulfillment.[68]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad Bhashya Vartika
(1) The ultimate reality or existence, often referred to as Brahman, which is devoid of form and attributes.[69]
From: Isopanisad (Madhva commentary)
(1) Refers to the ultimate personification of existence, embodying the characteristics of totality and transcendence.[70]
From: Prasthanatrayi Swaminarayan Bhashyam (Study)
(1) In several Darshanas, this title is attributed to Lord Krishna, who is considered the ultimate reality and object of worship.[71]
From: Vivekachudamani
(1) Describes the ultimate reality or divine essence that governs existence.[72]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad
(1) This term identifies Brahman as the ultimate reality that transcends all attributes of the material world.[73]
From: Siddhanta Sangraha of Sri Sailacharya
(1) Purushottama, or the Supreme Being, encompasses all realities from avyakta (unmanifest) to prithvi (earth).[74]
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.[75]
From: Brahma Sutras (Shankara Bhashya)
(1) Another term used for Brahman, emphasizing its ultimate authority and presence in all forms of life.[76]
From: Brahma Sutras (Ramanuja)
(1) A term synonymous with Brahman which denotes the highest spiritual reality.[77]
From: Shaiva Upanishads (A Critical Study)
(1) An ultimate entity recognized in various forms and names, such as Indra, Varuna, and Shiva, by different groups.[78] (2) The position attributed to Shiva within the context of the Shiva Puranas.[79] (3) The ultimate reality or divinity that one aims to visualize and connect with through spiritual practices.[80] (4) The ultimate divine entity that encompasses everything and is uncontained by any external forces.[81] (5) The highest entity, embodying the ultimate form of existence, characterized as the only Absolute Reality.[82]
From: Gitartha Samgraha (critical Study)
(1) The ultimate source or divine essence which is the root of all things.[83] (2) The one entity manifested in various forms, as suggested by Vedic texts.[84]
From: Sivaprakasam (Study in Bondage and Liberation)
(1) The ultimate reality or God with whom the self seeks union.[85] (2) The ultimate reality or God whose nature encompasses infinite auspicious attributes as per the interpretation of Shri Ramanuja.[86]
From: Tiruvacakam Part I
(1) The unique Being whose wondrous and admirable sublimity cannot be fully comprehended by any finite beings, gods or men.[87]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) The entity described within the text, associated with the creation of water and the name Nara.[88] (2) Describes a person equal to a higher spiritual authority, residing in the hearts of the populace and connected to governance.[89] (3) A reference to a divine entity, regarded as residing in the hearts of the people.[90] (4) The Creator, as described by Nandana, whose actions during Dissolution and creation are delineated in the verses.[91] (5) The ultimate reality or entity that some philosophers postulate as having existed eternally and as being the creator of Brahma and the Vedas.[92]
From: The Sarva-Darsana-Samgraha
(1) An additional principle included in the Sankhya system that represents an unblemished Soul responsible for creation.[93] (2) A theological concept that refers to an ultimate creator or authority that imparts knowledge and maintains order.[94] (3) Concept in Shaiva-darshana viewed as a dependent cause of actions, contrasting with the idea of an independent cause.[95] (4) The true means of escape from pain and reality, as understood through passages from scriptures.[96]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) The Supreme Being is described as omniscient and unlimited, signifying the highest divine entity that all living beings fail to fully perceive.[97] (2) The ultimate reality and source of all existence, encapsulating the essence of Vedic knowledge and the embodiment of all religious principles.[98] (3) Refers to the ultimate deity or god, which is the subject of the speaker's contemplation and feeling of insignificance.[99]
From: Haribhakti-sudhodaya
(1) Refers to the ultimate divine essence that oversees and governs the universe, identified with Lord Sri Nrisimhadeva.[100]
From: Hanuman Nataka (critical study)
(1) The notion that while Rama is portrayed as a human, his character also reflects greatness associated with divine qualities.[101]
From: Mudrarakshasa (literary study)
(1) The divine source from which ultimate feelings and pleasure derived from rasa originate.[102]
From: Matangalila and Hastyayurveda (study)
(1) The Supreme Being refers to Adorable, who responds to the royal elephant's prayers during his time of need.[103]
From: Kashyapa Shilpa-shastra (study)
(1) In Vaishnava Agamas, Vishnu is glorified as the Supreme Being to the exclusion of all other deities.[104]
The concept of Supreme Being in local and regional sources
The keyphrase "Supreme Being" encapsulates various interpretations as the ultimate source of inspiration, divine authority, and highest existence across cultures, embodying qualities of love, creation, and universal well-being, while featuring prominently in religious and spiritual contexts.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) Parama Purusha, the One without a Second, who manifests the universe for sport and relaxation.[105] (2) Refers to the divine entity in Indian thought, which encompasses both immanent and transcendent qualities.[106] (3) The One only without a second, who wills to become Many and possesses the potency to materialize His conception in all fullness and splendor.[107] (4) The ultimate divine entity responsible for universal well-being and existence.[108] (5) Refers to Rama, regarded as the embodiment of divinity and supreme authority within the context of Ramayana.[109]
From: Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints
(1) The highest form of existence, representing God as an all-powerful and all-knowing entity.[110] (2) A reference to God, whom followers serve and love.[111] (3) A reference to the highest divine entity that brings comfort where love is present.[112] (4) Denotes the highest form of existence and consciousness in the universe.[113]
From: Folklore of the Santal Parganas
(1) Thakur, representing the highest spiritual entity in the Santal belief system.[114]