Significance of Viceroy

The term Viceroy has different meanings across various contexts. In Purana, it denotes officials acting on behalf of a prince or representing his authority, while in Theravada, it refers to individuals like Prince Brahmadatta who prepare to rule or represent the king. In historical terms, particularly in India, the Viceroy signifies the British representative, specifically the governor-general overseeing British India and maintaining colonial governance. This multifaceted role highlights the Viceroy's significance in governance both in ancient texts and colonial history.1
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Synonyms: Governor, Ruler, Administrator, Regent

In Dutch: Onderkoning; In Finnish: Varakuningas; In Spanish: Virrey; In German: Vizekönig

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Buddhist concept of 'Viceroy'

Buddhism Books

In Buddhism, "Viceroy" signifies a ruler acting on behalf of a sovereign, embodying moral leadership, and includes roles like Prince Brahmadatta and Sotthisena, illustrating the preparatory and authoritative functions preceding kingship.

Significance in Theravada (major branch of Buddhism):
Theravada Books

From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6

(1) The title given to the Bodhisatta by the king after being recognized as his son, granting him authority under the king's reign.[1] (2) A ruler exercising authority on behalf of a king, assigned to the prince by the Bodhisatta.[2] (3) The son of Brahmadatta who was appointed to govern in his father's stead but was told to leave for the time being.[3] (4) A high-ranking official who governs in place of a monarch; represents moral leadership in the story.[4] (5) The title given to Sotthisena, the king's son, who held authority under his father.[5]

Theravada is a major branch of Buddhism having the the Pali canon (tipitaka) as their canonical literature, which includes the vinaya-pitaka (monastic rules), the sutta-pitaka (Buddhist sermons) and the abhidhamma-pitaka (philosophy and psychology).

Hindu concept of 'Viceroy'

Hinduism Books

In Hinduism, "Viceroy" symbolizes delegated officials who embody and enact the prince's authority, reflecting various facets of his governance and existence, thus illustrating the structure of divine representation within the realm of rule.

Significance in Purana and Itihasa (epic history):
Purana Books

From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4

(1) Delegated officials acting on behalf of the prince, representing different aspects of his rule and existence.[6]

The Purana refers to Sanskrit literature preserving ancient India’s vast cultural history, including historical legends, religious ceremonies, various arts and sciences. The eighteen mahapuranas total over 400,000 shlokas (metrical couplets) and date to at least several centuries BCE.

The concept of Viceroy in local and regional sources

History Books

Viceroy refers to the British official in India, acting as the representative of the British Crown, overseeing colonial governance and functioning as the governor-general of British India.

Significance in India history and geography:

From: Triveni Journal

(1) The British representative in India, responsible for overseeing the governance of the colonial territory.[7] (2) The governor-general of India, representing the British Crown, responsible for overseeing British India.[8]

Plural form: Viceroys.