Significance of Vira
Synonyms: Germ
In Dutch: Vira; In German: Vira; In Finnish: Vira; In Spanish: Vira
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Vira'
In Buddhism, Vira signifies a dedicated individual who tirelessly strives for spiritual enlightenment over eons and also refers to a disciple of Ashvaghosha known for a work on 'non-individuality' expressed in 100 gathas.
From: Apadana commentary (Atthakatha)
(1) A term denoting one who has made great efforts or exertions over multiple aeons to achieve spiritual goals.[1]
From: The Fo-Sho-Hing-Tsan-King (A Life of Buddha)
(1) A disciple of Ashvaghosha who wrote a treatise on 'non-individuality' in 100 gathas.[2]
Hindu concept of 'Vira'
In Hinduism, Vira encompasses various interpretations, including a dedicated practitioner of intense Tantric practices, a valiant hero symbolizing courage and gallantry, and significant figures within mythological narratives, highlighting the essence of bravery and spiritual pursuit.
From: Skanda Purana
(1) A great hero and elephant deity in rut, venerated for his protective attributes over Ayodhya.[3] (2) The son born to queen Malayagandhini after her Vrata, who is prophesied to be a prominent devotee and a significant figure in the narrative.[4]
From: Markandeya Purana (Study)
(1) The wife of king Karamdhama who undertook hundred years of austerities after his death.[5] (2) The wife of king Karandhama who demonstrated dedication by accompanying him in forest penance.[6]
From: Garuda Purana
(1) The good Brahmana whose family is central to the narrative and the Vrata's importance.[7]
From: Markandeya Purana
(1) The beautiful daughter of Viryacandra who chose Karandhama as her husband at her svayamvara.[8]
From: Shakti and Shakta
(1) A type of practitioner who engages in more intense Tantric practices, often involving the Pancatattva and striving for higher spiritual goals.[9] (2) Vira refers to the heroic type of individual who exhibits active engagement in spiritual practices and strives to overcome Tamas through Rajas (activity).[10] (3) The 'Hero' in the context of Tantric practices, qualified to engage in secret rituals and worship.[11]
From: Mudrarakshasa (literary study)
(1) One of the sentiments depicted by Vishakhadatta using the Shardulavikridita meter, representing courage or heroism.[12]
From: Abhinaya-darpana (English)
(1) radiant, direct, open, rather majestic, self-controlled, the pupils at rest. Usage: the heroic.[13]
From: Dasarupaka (critical study)
(1) Heroic sentiment that encapsulates bravery and valor among the protagonists.[14]
From: Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu
(1) Another designation of one of the three types, indicating a distinct category within the classification.[15] (2) Refers to the 'gallantry' or heroism as a secondary sentiment, crucial in the portrayal of the Pandavas in the battle scenario.[16]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) warriors; denotes brave soldiers or champions in battle.[17]
From: Sahitya-kaumudi by Baladeva Vidyabhushana
(1) One of the nine rasas representing heroism.[18]
From: Vishnudharmottara Purana (Art and Architecture)
(1) The heroic sentiment characterized by bravery and nobility.[19]
From: Shaiva Upanishads (A Critical Study)
(1) One of the five agamas revealed to Bharadvaja, referring to the neck.[20]
From: Samarangana-sutradhara (Summary)
(1) A temple type that is part of the first series and evolved from the primordial type.[21]
Jain concept of 'Vira'
In Jainism, Vira signifies a revered figure associated with Jyotishpura, a distinctive meditative posture, and the complexity of holy figures' lives, including teachings and challenges during spiritual journeys, reflecting ultimate mastery and revered status.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) Goshala's guru, depicted as an Arhat and the rightful teacher of dharma, whose teachings Goshala ultimately disowns.[22] (2) Another title for the Master and an indication of his esteemed status.[23] (3) Another character who encounters hardship while being mistaken for a spy, indicating the challenges faced by holy men.[24] (4) The lord of Jyotishpura and father of Pankajashri.[25] (5) A posture where the left foot is on the right thigh and the right foot is on the left thigh, suitable for heroes and Tirthakaras.[26]
From: Kalpa-sutra (Lives of the Jinas)
(1) A significant figure whose death is referenced in relation to the lives and deaths of earlier notable individuals.[27]
The concept of Vira in local and regional sources
Vira, a rasa associated with heroism, is prominent in narratives such as the fight for the Parijata, exemplified within the context of Bhama Kalaapam, highlighting themes of valor and bravery in storytelling.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) A rasa associated with heroism, often featured in narratives like the fight for the Parijata within the context of Bhama Kalaapam.[28]