Significance of Vidyadhara
Vidyadhara, as described in various traditions, refers to a group of celestial or mystical beings known for their knowledge and powers. In Jainism, these beings are involved in narratives showcasing their supernatural abilities, often linked to battles and royal affairs. Similarly, in Buddhism, Vidyadhara signifies wise and accomplished beings, representing high spiritual achievement. The concept spans across different mythologies, highlighting these beings' significant roles in both cosmic and earthly narratives, emphasizing their connection to knowledge, wisdom, and magical prowess.
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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 'Vidyadhara'
In Buddhism, Vidyadhara signifies a spiritually advanced individual with perfect vows, a figure in mandalas, a mythical being demonstrating liberation through Pirit, and wise, semi-divine entities associated with magic and protection in Tibetan and Vedic narratives.
From: Blue Annals (deb-ther sngon-po)
(1) Wise and accomplished beings in Tibetan Buddhism, indicative of the spiritual goals pursued by lha rje sgro sbug pa.[1] (2) A term used for someone who possesses perfect vows and precepts, highlighting high spiritual attainment.[2]
From: Karandavyuha Sutra
(1) Semi-divine beings linked to magic and protection, appearing in narratives involving Ravana and the monkey race within Vedic texts.[3] (2) A figure depicted beneath the legs of Shadakshari Mahavidya, holding incense and a basket of adornments, contributing to the overall symbolism of the mandala.[4]
From: Milindapanha (questions of King Milinda)
(1) A mythical being referred to in the text that exemplifies escape through the power of Pirit.[5]
Hindu concept of 'Vidyadhara'
Vidyadhara in Hinduism represents a class of magical celestial beings imbued with great power and knowledge, often associated with divine destiny, transformation, and spiritual pursuits, playing crucial roles in mythological narratives and cosmic dynamics.
From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)
(1) A group of supernatural beings who, along with Siddhas and other demigods, were listeners of the heavenly tale recited by Kanabhuti.[6] (2) A race of celestial beings who possess magical powers and are pivotal to the socio-political dynamics in the story.[7] (3) Supernatural beings featured in the tales characterized as possessing magical powers.[8] (4) Refers to supernatural beings or celestial beings associated with knowledge at the end of the story when the two birds ascend to heaven.[9] (5) Mythical beings who are allies of Vidyuddhvaja and play a part in the heavenly battles.[10]
From: Naishadha-charita of Shriharsha
(1) Another significant commentator whose interpretations are frequently referenced and sometimes copied by Jinaraja.[11] (2) Another early commentator whose readings frequently align with those of Candupandita, and later commentators refer to his interpretations.[12]
From: Harsha-charita
(1) A celestial being possessing wisdom and spiritual power, often depicted in Indian literature.[13]
From: Harshacharita (socio-cultural Study)
(1) Figures recognized for always carrying swords, indicating their role as warriors.[14]
From: Skanda Purana
(1) A celestial being or entity often depicted in Hindu texts, regarding themes of elevation and experiences of divine interventions.[15] (2) A celestial being related to the arts and knowledge, represented by the lineage of Princess Malayagandhini.[16] (3) Celestial beings who possess aerial chariots and are depicted as guiding and warning Ashokadatta.[17] (4) A celestial being in Hindu mythology, often associated with knowledge and mystical powers.[18] (5) A celestial being; the male dove's future reincarnation as a learned and skilled individual in Ayodhya.[19]
From: Padma Purana
(1) A being from celestial realms with the ability to fly and often associated with knowledge and wisdom.[20] (2) A being endowed with great knowledge and the ability to control various aspects of existence.[21] (3) A spiritual being who merits extended life in heaven upon listening to or choosing to observe the Saubhagya-shayana vow.[22] (4) Mythical celestial beings associated with knowledge and enlightenment.[23] (5) Celestial beings who are mentioned as sleeping due to the fatigue brought on by their sexual pleasures, indicating a nature of delight in the forest.[24]
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) A being possessing knowledge and learning, into which the western form of the prince transforms as a result of his skills.[25] (2) A being associated with celestial powers and spiritual pursuits, under whom Lila was said to have once roved.[26] (3) A celestial being that took one of the Vipaschitas to the region of the celestials.[27] (4) The form in which Bhasa was next born, living as an ascetic named Amarasoma.[28] (5) A celestial being that Bhasa was born as, reflecting his encounters with supernatural entities.[29]
From: Bhagavata Purana
(1) Mythical beings recognized as guardians of knowledge, appearing at the event surrounding Lord Krishna.[30] (2) Another class of spiritual beings featuring in the narrative, known for their mystical powers.[31] (3) Celestial artists who reside in the region below Rahu, part of the heavenly domain.[32]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki
(1) One of the supernatural weapons granted by Vishvamitra.[33] (2) Beings capable of transformation, also present during Hanuman's journey.[34] (3) Celestial beings who enjoyed their time in the moonlit surroundings, diverting themselves joyfully.[35]
From: Vishnu Purana (Taylor)
(1) Celestial beings or spirits associated with knowledge and wisdom, often mentioned in conjunction with other semi-divine entities.[36] (2) A class of semi-divine musicians.[37]
From: Garuda Purana
(1) A term representing a being who has attained high spiritual status or enlightenment, often associated with wisdom and knowledge.[38]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) Celestial beings who are included in those who meditate on Bhagavan, highlighting His reverence among different entities.[39]
From: Lalitopakhyana (Lalita Mahatmya)
(1) Celestial beings often depicted in Hindu mythology, associated with knowledge and wisdom.[40]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) A class of celestial beings known for their wisdom and enlightenment.[41] (2) Refers to a being associated with knowledge and magical powers, who plays a role in the narrative.[42] (3) A group of celestial beings mentioned in the text, typically associated with possessing special knowledge or powers.[43] (4) Celestial beings that embody the idea of knowledge and are often depicted as skilled in arts.[44] (5) Another celestial group associated with happiness and music, often celebrated in divine contexts.[45]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) The form that the great snake took after being freed from its reptilian body by Lord Krishna.[46] (2) Another class of celestial beings recognized for their worship and praise of Lord Balarama.[47]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) Supernatural beings associated with knowledge, who entertain Shri Bhagavan with music and instruments.[48]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) Another group of attendants of the gods, categorized as divine beings.[49]
From: Amarakoshodghatana of Kshirasvamin (study)
(1) Lords of arts mentioned as demi-gods, associated with various artistic skills.[50]
From: Samarangana-sutradhara (Summary)
(1) Mythical beings often referenced in temple iconography, accompanied by various decorative paintings within the temple context.[51]
From: Manasara (English translation)
(1) Semi-divine beings serving as attendants in religious contexts, possessing magical powers and typically portrayed with specific attributes.[52]
Jain concept of 'Vidyadhara'
In Jainism, Vidyadhara refers to various celestial beings endowed with knowledge and magical powers, often involved in conflicts and narratives. They symbolize spiritual aspirations, intervene in human affairs, and represent the dynamics between divine and earthly realms.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) A group of celestial beings or warriors, strong-armed and eager for battle, who are portrayed as having powers or abilities (vidyas) that make them formidable in combat.[53] (2) Heavenly beings or supernatural figures in the narrative, associated with the battle against Ravana.[54] (3) A race of beings that Ashvagriva conquered, representing his might and skill in battle.[55] (4) Celestial beings associated with wealth and knowledge that Nami and Vinami sought dominion over through service.[56] (5) A group of beings or rulers that were conquered by Sagara, known for their association with the mountain.[57]
From: Bhagavati-sutra (Viyaha-pannatti)
(1) A class of celestial beings mentioned in the context of Jambu-dvipa, emphasizing the spiritual nature of its inhabitants.[58]
From: Tattvartha Sutra (with commentary)
(1) Beings endowed with extraordinary powers that, according to the text, cannot traverse beyond the mountain range of Manushottara.[59]
The concept of Vidyadhara in local and regional sources
Vidyadhara, as described in Dandin's narrative, embodies a mythical being characterized by transformative abilities and supernatural events, which play a crucial role in advancing the storyline and enhancing the magical realism of the text.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) A mythical being that features in Dandin's narrative, marked by transformations and supernatural occurrences that drive the plot.[60]