Significance of Thousand sons
The keyphrase "Thousand sons" encompasses various interpretations across different South Asian texts. In stories linked to Vyasa and Daksha, it symbolizes miraculous birth, royal legacy, and strength through numerous progeny born to figures like Kadru and Daksha. Additionally, it reflects spiritual teachings and abundant lineages. In Buddhist contexts, "Thousand sons" denotes the expansive influence of teachings, the possibility of offspring of a cakravartin king becoming Buddhas, and the importance of lineage. The phrase highlights both literal and metaphorical implications of strength and continuity.
In Dutch: Duizend zonen; In Finnish: Tuhat poikaa; In Spanish: Mil hijos
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Thousand sons'
In Buddhism, "Thousand sons" symbolizes the spiritual lineage of Buddhas from a wheel-turning king, emphasizing royal status, noble heir importance, and the vast influence of the Exalted One’s teachings, rather than literal offspring.
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) The entourage surrounding the cakravartin king in the transformation by Utpalavarna.[1] (2) The necessary heirs for a noble cakravartin king's lineage to be considered complete and fully honored.[2]
From: Mahavastu (great story)
(1) A figurative expression signifying the vastness of the Exalted One's influence and teachings rather than actual progeny.[3]
From: Shurangama Sutra (with commentary) (English)
(1) The offspring of the wheel-turning king who were destined to become Buddhas, indicating the lineage and continuity of Buddhist heritage.[4]
From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) A count that signifies the magnitude of Sabbadatta's royal family, emphasizing his status.[5]
Hindu concept of 'Thousand sons'
In Hinduism, "Thousand sons" symbolizes abundance, lineage importance, and prosperity, illustrated through figures like Kadru, Daksha, and their numerous progeny, reflecting desires for strength, spiritual growth, and expansive familial legacy.
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) Agastya offers options for the number of sons, emphasizing the significance of having a strong lineage.[6] (2) Kadru wished for a thousand sons all having equal splendour, representing abundance and the desire for prosperity.[7] (3) The many offspring of Kadru who are summoned for a deceptive task regarding Uccaihsravas' tail.[8] (4) The offspring born to each of King Sasavindu's wives, highlighting the king's prolific lineage.[9] (5) The numerous progeny of Daksha, who were trained in vital philosophical teachings for their spiritual growth.[10]
From: Brahmanda Purana
(1) The progeny of Daksha and Asikni, known for their unlimited prowess.[11] (2) Kakshivan later became the father of a thousand sons, remembered as Kushmandas and Gautamas.[12]
From: Skanda Purana
(1) Kadru's wish for a thousand sons of equal splendour as her progeny, contrasting with Vinata's desire for two sons who would surpass Kadru's offspring.[13]
From: Shiva Purana
(1) The numerous offspring begotten by Daksha with the daughter of Pancajana after being consoled by Brahma.[14]
The concept of Thousand sons in local and regional sources
"Thousand Sons" symbolizes royal legacy and strength through a king's wise sons, while also representing miraculous birth from a lotus-flower, linked to Vyasa and the deer-girl tale, emphasizing themes of wisdom and resilience.
From: Buddhist records of the Western world (Xuanzang)
(1) A mention of the king's numerous sons known for their wisdom and courage, symbolizing royal legacy and strength.[15] (2) Children born from a lotus-flower, symbolizing miraculous birth and strength in a story connected with Vyasa and the deer-girl.[16]