Significance of Supreme Lord
Synonyms: Sovereign, Almighty, Creator, Supreme being, God, Deity, Ultimate power, Omnipotent, Ruler, Monarch, Emperor, Overlord, King, Master
In Dutch: Allerhoogste Heer; In Finnish: Korkein Herra; In Spanish: Señor 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 Lord'
In Buddhism, the Supreme Lord is viewed as an ultimate divine being whose existence is often rejected in teachings, yet is also seen as a force engaging with primordial matter to generate and maintain the universe.
From: Tattvasangraha [with commentary]
(1) The divine entity that interacts with primordial matter to cause creation, subsistence, and dissolution of the universe.[1] (2) A concept of an ultimate divine being mentioned as a target for rejection in the subsequent investigation proposed in the text.[2]
Hindu concept of 'Supreme Lord'
The keyphrase "Supreme Lord" in Hinduism refers to the ultimate divine entity, embodying various forms like Krishna and Vishnu, who is revered for spiritual connection, opulence, and guidance, central to the devotion and practices of believers.
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) The ultimate divine being, often misunderstood in relation to His pastimes and identities.[3] (2) The ultimate reality or divine entity that is worshipped and served by sannyasis and spiritual practitioners.[4] (3) A title referring to Krishna as the ultimate divine being who grants mercy and guidance to devotees.[5] (4) The ultimate divine being who is worshipped and serves as the object of devotion in various spiritual traditions.[6] (5) A term used in Vedic literature to denote the ultimate deity, whom devotees like Pundarika Vidyanidhi worship.[7]
From: Tiruvaymoli (Thiruvaimozhi): English translation
(1) A title for the ultimate divine being who embodies purity, simplicity, and love towards His devotees.[8] (2) The central divine figure who is depicted as having a significant role in the lives of the Alvar and in imparting bliss.[9] (3) The ultimate cause of all things and beings, prominently identified in the text.[10] (4) A divine being who responds compassionately to calls for help from the destitute.[11] (5) Refers to the Lord who embodies both the ultimate goal and the method of achieving it.[12]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) A title referring to Shri Krishna as the highest entity in meditation and prayer, indicating His supreme authority and presence.[13] (2) A reference to Bhagavan, indicating authority and divinity.[14] (3) Referred to as Shri Bhagavan, adorned with transcendental qualities and the object of devotion.[15] (4) A title referring to the highest deity, specifically mentioned as Shri Yajneshvara Bhagavan in this narrative.[16] (5) The ultimate deity, referred to as Bhagavan, from whom the para and apara potencies arise.[17]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) The ultimate divine entity that embodies the highest spiritual authority and presence.[18] (2) A title used to refer to a deity or divine being, implying the highest authority and power.[19] (3) Refers to Lord Krishna as the ultimate divine personality, reinforcing his elevated status in spirituality.[20] (4) A term used in the text to refer to the highest deity, whom the speaker is searching for.[21] (5) Refers to Bhagavan, the divine being in the text, who is characterized as the deliverer from troubles.[22]
From: Bhajana-Rahasya
(1) Refers to Bhagavan, the ultimate source of existence without whom maya is not manifest.[23] (2) A title referring to the highest divine entity, often addressed in prayers and surrender, signifying ultimate authority and love.[24] (3) The term 'Supreme Lord' refers to the Divine being, recognized as the ultimate source of knowledge and peace, to whom the demigods are praying for shelter.[25] (4) The ultimate divine being, referred to here as Bhagavan Shri Vishnu, to whom all devotional practices are directed.[26] (5) Referring to Bhagavan Mukunda, who liberates devotees from sin when they surrender to Him.[27]
From: Chaitanya Mangala
(1) Describes an inconceivable, eternal, spiritual, and blissful entity who takes birth on earth while remaining unborn.[28] (2) Refers to Lord Vishvambhara, highlighting His divinity and status as the ultimate being.[29] (3) A title indicating the highest divine authority, which Lord Gaura embodies, acknowledged by His followers.[30] (4) The ultimate divine being revered in the text.[31] (5) Referring to Lord Krishna, whom Shaci meditates upon, recognizing His ultimate authority over all beings.[32]
From: Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu
(1) A divine figure, characterized in the text as possessing intense emotions and love for His devotees.[33] (2) The highest divine being with eternal form, associated with ultimate power and authority.[34] (3) A title used to refer to the ultimate deity in the context of the text, emphasizing the respect and sanctity associated with Him.[35] (4) The divine source from whom all beings and social classes are created and who embodies the essence of worship.[36] (5) A title suggesting the highest deity or spiritual authority, being referenced in relation to Balarama, the enemy of Pralambha.[37]
From: Sri Krishna-Chaitanya
(1) Refers to Krishna, embodying the ultimate divine essence recognized in various forms throughout spiritual traditions.[38] (2) The highest deity, often referred to as Krishna, who embodies the principles of love, service, and supreme authority.[39] (3) An ultimate divine entity, referred to here in the context of Krishna, who is worthy of devotion and submission.[40] (4) Refers to the divine personality of Sri Krishna-Chaitanya, central to the spiritual teachings discussed.[41] (5) Referring to God, who is emphasized in the context of true worship and spiritual devotion.[42]
From: Srila Gurudeva (The Supreme Treasure)
(1) A reference to the highest deity in Hindu belief, often associated with divinity and ultimate power.[43] (2) The ultimate divine entity, known as Krishna, who is the source of all creation and spiritual wisdom.[44] (3) The Supreme Being who activates the previous karmas of living entities and guides them towards liberation.[45] (4) Refers to Krishna, recognized as the ultimate source of all beings in the Gaudiya Vaishnavism tradition.[46] (5) The Supreme Lord appears in various forms to address the overburdening of the earth with demonic personalities and the diminishing of religious principles.[47]
From: Bhagavata Purana
(1) The ultimate divine being, characterized as the source of the Kala-form, from whom creation and the universe originate.[48] (2) The Supreme Lord is described as free from ego and limitations, and the ultimate protector who takes incarnations to help beings in distress.[49] (3) A reference to Krishna as the highest deity, embodying qualities of love, compassion, and ultimate reality.[50] (4) A reference to the highest deity, representing ultimate reality and truth, into which one should establish their mind.[51] (5) A designation for God, highlighting qualities of ultimate power, purity, and consciousness.[52]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) A term that refers to Janarddana, emphasizing his paramount authority and divinity.[53] (2) The ultimate divine being responsible for the creation and maintenance of the universe.[54] (3) A title indicating the ultimate divine authority, encompassing all aspects of creation and destruction.[55] (4) Refers to Narayana, the ultimate deity, recognized for his infinite power and ability to grant boons to his devotees.[56] (5) Another title for the divine being Vishnu, acknowledged as the highest of all deities.[57]
From: Linga Purana
(1) The highest divine authority within the spiritual hierarchy, often linked with ultimate reality.[58] (2) Identification of a being with ultimate power and authority in a spiritual context.[59] (3) The divine being where yoga indicates dwelling.[60] (4) The highest deity or god, often invoked in rituals and spiritual practices.[61] (5) The higher deity with whom Brahma performed penance, resulting in the creation of sub-deities.[62]
From: Skanda Purana
(1) The all-encompassing entity that pervades all living beings, akin to the atman.[63] (2) Reference to Vasudeva, who is considered the creator and governor of the universe.[64] (3) The ultimate divinity in whom individuals who give up their lives and observe fasts shall merge.[65] (4) The exalted deity referenced as the ruler of the worlds and the immanent soul of the universe.[66] (5) A title referring to the highest divine entity, recognized for its omnipotence and transcendence.[67]
From: Shiva Purana
(1) A title for Shiva emphasizing his highest position in the hierarchy of divinity.[68] (2) Indicates the highest divine being, revered by the sages and the one from whom Upamanyu received favours.[69] (3) A title for Shiva, signifying his ultimate authority and divinity in the cosmic order.[70] (4) Referring to Shiva's status as the highest deity, indicating his power and authority.[71] (5) Refers to a king's assertion of superiority over brahmins based on his divine status, challenging spiritual and social norms.[72]
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) The highest deity that abides within everyone, offering salvation and blessings to those who seek it.[73] (2) The ultimate spiritual entity that is ever vigilant and perceives existence without self-manifestation.[74] (3) This concept identifies God as the highest deity, deserving of admiration and reverence, characterized as the universal soul and intellect.[75] (4) A title for Mahadeva, denoting his position as the ultimate deity and omniscient force within all beings and spaces.[76] (5) Refers to the Divine being who created the world and later chose to send knowledge to humanity.[77]
From: Agni Purana
(1) The highest spiritual entity that encompasses all beings and permeates the universe through thoughts.[78] (2) One should always think of the Supreme Lord while moving, standing, sleeping, and waking.[79] (3) The highest divine being, recognized as the source of all existence.[80] (4) Refers to Janardana, a representation of Vishnu who has the power to destroy diseases and evils.[81] (5) Denotes lord Vishnu who is exalted above all beings, holding power and reverence in the spiritual hierarchy.[82]
From: Brahma Purana
(1) Refers to the ultimate divine entity, identified as Vasudeva, that encompasses everything.[83] (2) Referring to the highest deity or divine entity, recognized as the ultimate power and protector.[84] (3) A title for the highest deity, revered as the ruler of all beings.[85] (4) A title for the ultimate deity, highlighting the transcendental nature of the speaker.[86]
From: Brahmanda Purana
(1) The highest being revered as the ultimate authority and source of existence.[87] (2) The ultimate spiritual entity that Rama meditates upon, representing the ideal of divine perfection.[88] (3) Refers to Rama's divine aspect as he contemplates how to protect the world during conflict.[89] (4) The ultimate divine entity without specific features, embodying both duality and qualities.[90]
From: Padma Purana
(1) A title referring to the highest spiritual authority revered by the sages and devotees.[91] (2) A title referencing the highest divine authority, often associated with Rudra or Shiva.[92] (3) Another term for Vishnu, indicating his status above all other gods.[93]
From: Vishnu Purana
(1) A title for Vishnu, denoting his ultimate authority and reverence in the texts, highlighting the divine qualities attributed to him.[94] (2) A title attributed to Krishna, recognized by Muchukunda as a divine being with the ability to alleviate distress.[95]
From: Bhagavadgita
(1) The ultimate divine presence that pervades all existence and is the source of all life.[96]
From: Anugita (English translation)
(1) The Kshetrajna, free from qualities and symbols, is depicted as the Supreme Lord.[97]
From: Markandeya Purana
(1) Refers to the ultimate divine being who orchestrates the cosmos and embodies supernatural power, influencing Nature and the Soul.[98]
From: Harivamsha Purana
(1) A title attributed to Vishnu emphasizing his ultimate authority and power over all beings.[99]
From: Matsya Purana (critical study)
(1) Shiva is regarded as the supreme lord in the context of the Matsyapurana.[100]
From: Siddhanta Sangraha of Sri Sailacharya
(1) The Supreme being who acts independently in the act of protecting devotees.[101] (2) The divine being whose incarnation is characterized by auspicious qualities and pure creation.[102] (3) The ultimate divine being who exercises free will (sankalpa) to create and modify the elements.[103] (4) The ultimate reality or inner self of all entities, which words eventually signify, according to the text.[104] (5) Refers to the highest deity, often associated with Vishnu, who, together with His consort Shri, initiates creation and existence.[105]
From: Brahma Sutras (Ramanuja)
(1) The ultimate authority over the worlds, associated with Brahman.[106] (2) The ultimate divine being recognized as the source and cause of the world, according to the texts referenced.[107] (3) The ultimate intelligent being responsible for global creation, characterized by limitless powers, wisdom, and benevolence, distinct from individual souls.[108] (4) Referred to as the eternal ruler of the worlds, depicted in the Bhagavad Gita as having supreme power and being the source of all beings.[109] (5) The all-knowing, transcendent entity that is distinct from the individual soul and is considered the ultimate reality in certain philosophical systems.[110]
From: Brahma Sutras (Shankara Bhashya)
(1) The ultimate creator, as described in the text, who is responsible for producing effects through His reflection within elements.[111] (2) The ultimate divine entity that transcends the variations of the world, often described as a personal manifestation of Brahman.[112] (3) Refers to the ultimate reality or higher power that is Brahman, which encompasses all beings and is not the Pradhana.[113] (4) A title used to refer to the highest divine being or reality, which encompasses the essence of the universe in various philosophical discussions.[114]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad Bhashya Vartika
(1) Indicates the highest divine being or consciousness that oversees and sustains all existence.[115] (2) A title that denotes the highest deity or divine being, often identified with Brahman in this context.[116] (3) The ultimate being who possesses power and authority, responsible for the creation of the universe through maya.[117]
From: Shiva Gita (study and summary)
(1) The highest divine being who provides instructions and guidance, in this case to Rama about transmigration and the journey to the other world.[118] (2) Referring to Mahadeva, the highest divine entity in Hindu belief, who is worshiped in the narrative.[119] (3) This term refers to Lord Shiva, who removes obstacles and instills steadfast devotion in his followers.[120]
From: Isopanisad (Madhva commentary)
(1) Hari, the Supreme entity who is not discardable and is considered the standard of existence for all beings.[121] (2) The highest being in the philosophical frameworks discussed in the Isha-upanishad, representing ultimate reality and existence.[122]
From: Thirty minor Upanishads
(1) The ultimate entity that represents the source and end of all existence.[123] (2) The ultimate being who is all-pervading, ruler of maya, and exists in the hearts of all beings.[124]
From: Prasthanatrayi Swaminarayan Bhashyam (Study)
(1) A term used to signify Parabrahman’s position as the highest authority and master of all, surpassing all others in power and divinity.[125]
From: Mandukya Upanishad (Gaudapa Karika and Shankara Bhashya)
(1) Indicated as the changeless entity, it represents the state where there is a cessation of all miseries.[126]
From: Kena upanishad (Madhva commentary)
(1) This term denotes the ultimate reality or God, who is referred to as Brahman, and emphasizes His incomprehensible and transcendent nature.[127]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad
(1) The highest manifestation of divine existence, synonymous with Brahman, governing the cosmos and all entities within it.[128]
From: Mandukya Upanishad (Madhva commentary)
(1) Refers to the Turiya, who reveals everything to the soul in the state of Mukti.[129]
From: Prashna Upanishad (Madhva commentary)
(1) The creator of the whole universe who also rules the microcosm through the five-fold prana.[130]
From: Ashtavakra Gita
(1) The eternal and all-pervading divine presence that exists both within and apart from all creation.[131]
From: Vivekachudamani
(1) This refers to Isvara, a concept in dualistic philosophies that represents a personal God who is distinguished from the individual's true self, or Atman.[132]
From: Kathopanishad (Madhva commentary)
(1) Refers to Bhagavan, who is described as transcending all things and is central in the meditation of devotees.[133]
From: Shaiva Upanishads (A Critical Study)
(1) The divine essence represented by various forms like Brahma, Vishnu, and Rudra, who regulate birth, life, and death.[134] (2) The highest authority among all divine rulers and protectors.[135] (3) Denotes the higher spiritual entity that oversees and maintains the universe and all living beings.[136]
From: Gitartha Samgraha (critical Study)
(1) Parameshvara denotes the supreme lord in the context of the ultimate reality.[137] (2) The ultimate deity in various Indian philosophical traditions, often associated with divine grace and authority.[138]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) The being described in verse 7, creating Brahma and the entity associated with creation.[139] (2) The divine being who calls into existence various cosmic cycles, acting with a sense of amusement according to the text.[140] (3) The title given to the Brahmana, indicating his highest authority over all beings.[141] (4) Refers to Brahma as the ultimate deity, who is omniscient and responsible for creation.[142] (5) Refers to Hiranyagarbha as a deity with ultimate authority, capable of creation and possessing immense powers.[143]
From: Varahi Tantra (English Study)
(1) The ultimate governing force overseeing the five elements and their qualities, identified as Parameshvara.[144] (2) Referred to as Paramashiva, this entity is seen as the source of scriptures and traditions, engaging in divine sport to bestow grace on the universe.[145]
From: Dvisahasri of Tembesvami (Summary and Study)
(1) The highest divine being that Narahari represents, transcending human qualities despite appearing in a human form.[146] (2) A title attributed to Nrisimhasarasvati, indicating his significance in spiritual and religious practices.[147]
From: Sahitya-kaumudi by Baladeva Vidyabhushana
(1) Describes the highest being or deity in the context of the cowherder mentioned, who is perceived as the best among kings.[148] (2) The maha-ishvarah or overlord, a divine figure who descends in person and impacts the sides involved in divine narratives.[149]
From: Narayaniya (Narayaneeyam)
(1) The ultimate deity recognized for His supreme authority and power over creation.[150] (2) A title denoting the highest deity, regarded as the ultimate source of everything.[151]
From: The Sarva-Darsana-Samgraha
(1) The ultimate divine entity that is both the cause and sustainer of all existence, further referred to in various philosophies and texts.[152] (2) The Supreme Lord who is both distinct and identical with various cognitions, possessing independence and the ability to witness all things, manifesting all entities in the mirror of one's soul.[153]
From: Padarthadharmasamgraha and Nyayakandali
(1) The ultimate divine entity that holds dominion over all worlds and initiates the processes of creation and destruction, driven by desire and will.[154]
Jain concept of 'Supreme Lord'
The term "Supreme Lord" in Jainism signifies the ultimate authority and revered deity, embodying divine wisdom and spiritual excellence. It highlights figures like Mahavira and Parshva, crucial to the teachings and cosmology of Jain faith.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) Bharata's title, signifying his unchallenged authority over thirty-two thousand peoples and other regions.[155] (2) The highest spiritual figure who is venerated and worshiped, whose teachings are central to the message of the hymn.[156] (3) A title referring to the highest spiritual being, who is the focal point of worship and reverence in the events described.[157] (4) A title indicating the Lord's ultimate authority and divinity.[158] (5) A significant figure who the five nurses attended to without leaving at all, analogous to a great sage.[159]
From: Tattvartha Sutra (with commentary)
(1) Refers to highly exalted beings, including Vijaya, Vaijayanta, Jayanta, and Aparajita, who possess superior qualities.[160]
The concept of Supreme Lord in local and regional sources
The Supreme Lord signifies the ultimate divine authority and deity revered in bhakti for spiritual fulfillment, encompassing concepts of creation, protection, and destruction, while representing a higher power in Hindu belief, such as Narayana and Siva.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) A reference to a higher power or deity that embodies ultimate authority and is the ultimate goal of human endeavor.[161] (2) A reference to the highest divine power in Hindu belief, as discussed by the author in relation to Siva.[162] (3) A figure of ultimate power and authority, often representing a higher state of being or control.[163] (4) Refers to Narayana, emphasizing his role in creation, protection, and destruction.[164] (5) The Supreme Lord is the deity that followers of bhakti worship for spiritual fulfillment, derived from the action of adoration.[165]
From: Lord Jhulelal: An Analytical Study
(1) The deity to whom the believers attribute the answering of prayers, emphasizing the faith of Sindhis in Lord Jhulelal.[166]