Significance of Terrible demon
The term "Terrible demon" encompasses a variety of malevolent entities in different texts and beliefs. In Shilpashastra, it denotes malicious beings threatening locations due to neglected sacrifices. In Vaishnavism, terrible demons instill horror, while Purana elaborates on beings that consume humans, pose dangers to hermits, and evoke fear. They include the fierce guardians of palaces, demons like Madhu and Kaitabha, and a monstrous creation by Vishvamitra. Overall, these demons embody threats and serve as symbols of ultimate evil and suffering in mythological narratives.
Synonyms: Horrible demon, Dreadful demon, Dreadful monster, Awful beast
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Terrible demon'
The "Terrible demon" in Hinduism encompasses various fearsome entities, including those created for vengeance or arising from offerings, embodying chaos, malevolence, and threats to the righteous, as seen through legends of Madhu, Kaitabha, and Ravana's forces.
From: Ramayana of Valmiki
(1) The antagonistic forces led by Ravana, posing a threat to Sita and Hanuman.[1] (2) Mythical beings that pose a threat, described in terms of their immense size and frightening appearance.[2] (3) The female titans commanding the darkness and ferocity under Ravana's command.[3] (4) Malevolent beings that pose a danger to the hermits in the Dandaka Forest, living off human flesh.[4] (5) Fierce beings protecting the palace, serving to instill fear, akin to lions in a mighty forest.[5]
From: Markandeya Purana (Study)
(1) Demons Madhu and Kaitabha attempted to destroy Brahma but were stopped by Vishnu.[6] (2) Madhu and Kaitabha, the two demons who emerged from Vishnu’s ear wax with the intent to kill Brahma.[7]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) A fierce entity that emerges from Raivya's offerings, tasked with avenging the disrespect shown to Raivya's family.[8]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) The monstrous being created by Vishvamitra to wreak havoc in the kingdom as an act of vengeance.[9]
From: Padma Purana
(1) Supernatural beings that exemplify the ultimate suffering that awaits the wicked.[10]
From: Bhagavad-gita Mahatmya
(1) A malevolent being mentioned in the text, known for consuming people, creating a narrative of peril for the villagers.[11]
From: Gautami Mahatmya
(1) Born out of smoke during the cooking of Purodasha; a terror unto all the three worlds.[12]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) Demons that are fearsome in nature, evoking horror or dread.[13]
From: Manasara (English translation)
(1) Malicious entities believed to threaten the safety of a site if sacrificial offerings are neglected.[14]