Significance of Wild beast
The concept of wild beast encompasses various interpretations across Hinduism, Jainism, and other texts. In Hinduism, it symbolizes strength and danger associated with gods like Vishnu and Indra, with wild beasts representing untamed nature and the threats posed in rituals. Jainism uses the term metaphorically for challenges and dangers individuals face. Overall, the idea of wild beast reflects chaos, danger, and the wild elements of nature, emphasizing both the ferocity of animals and the significant cultural, spiritual, and practical meanings they embody.
Synonyms: Savage beast, Wild animal
In Dutch: Wild beest; In Finnish: Villi peto; In Spanish: Bestia salvaje
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Wild beast'
In Buddhism, "wild beast" symbolizes both potential dangers in desolate places, highlighting the importance of mindfulness, as well as the protective nature of leadership over vulnerable beings, like deer, against threats in their environment.
From: Mahavastu (great story)
(1) Animals that live independently in nature, referred to in the context of the peaceful and secluded forest.[1] (2) Refers to any dangerous animal that could harm the deer, which they were protected from by their leader.[2]
From: Visuddhimagga (the pah of purification)
(1) Potential dangers present in the charnel ground, signifying the need for caution and preparation when approaching such locations.[3]
Hindu concept of 'Wild beast'
In Hinduism, "wild beast" symbolizes untamed creatures that embody danger and raw power, reflecting the chaotic aspects of nature. These animals represent both physical threats and metaphysical challenges within sacred rituals and natural ecosystems.
From: Ramayana of Valmiki
(1) Dangerous animals that roam freely in the forest, representing a threat to those who venture into this perilous habitat.[4] (2) Untamed animals that inhabit a forest or wilderness where danger may be present.[5] (3) The various animals that inhabit the woodland area of Pancavati.[6] (4) Refers to the creatures in the forest, highlighting the simplicity and natural existence contrasted with human complexity.[7] (5) Animals that fled in terror during the disturbances, showcasing the level of chaos.[8]
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) Refers to the various animals inhabiting the forests, contributing to the natural ecosystem of the Sahya mountain.[9] (2) Animals wandering along the bank of the lake, emphasizing the natural wilderness.[10] (3) Metaphorically describes the untamed and erratic nature of human minds ensnared in error.[11] (4) Untamed animals that inhabit natural environments, representing the raw aspects of the wilderness.[12]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) Various non-domesticated animals that live in the forest, enhancing its wilderness character.[13] (2) Predators that pose a threat to the sons of Pandu, conveying the danger they may encounter during their exile.[14]
From: Garuda Purana
(1) Ferocious animals like lions, against whose attacks the roots tied around a man's waist can provide immunity.[15]
From: Markandeya Purana
(1) The potential danger that leads to speculation about the queen's fate.[16]
From: Satapatha-brahmana
(1) Animals that embody qualities like vigor, courage, and might, which are acquired during sacrifices.[17] (2) A description of Vishnu's power in a metaphorical sense, showcasing the strength and ferocity associated with his divine nature.[18] (3) Creatures that emerged from the various bodily openings of Indra after consuming Soma.[19] (4) Wild beasts metaphorically linked to a cruel deity signify danger; careful consideration is needed to ensure they do not disrupt the securing of cattle in rituals.[20] (5) Undomesticated animals that are associated with the divine realm and are involved in the sacrificial process.[21]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) Wild beasts are wicked animals, like the Tiger and the rest.[22] (2) A category of animals described in the text, also noted for being viviparous, which are those that give birth to live offspring.[23]
From: Kautilya Arthashastra
(1) Animals that the king may provide to his subjects during famine by means of hunting and fishing.[24] (2) Animals found in nature that, if stolen, result in the obligation to pay a fine equal to their value and restore them.[25]
From: Amarakoshodghatana of Kshirasvamin (study)
(1) Animals that are not domesticated and may prey on other animals, referred to as shvapada or himsrapashavah.[26]
From: Tiruvaymoli (Thiruvaimozhi): English translation
(1) Representations of all beings, indicating that even non-human creatures have access to the Lord's grace and presence in the hallowed land.[27]
From: Brihat Samhita
(1) A figurative expression that depicts the chaotic and dangerous environment represented by the numerous comets in space.[28]
Jain concept of 'Wild beast'
In Jainism, "Wild beast" symbolizes contentious individuals focused on winning arguments, foolish pursuers of temptations, and the challenges sages face, emphasizing the importance of truth, awareness, and inner peace amidst external dangers.
From: Naladiyar
(1) A metaphor for the foolish individuals who pursue courtesans without recognizing the dangers and manipulations involved.[29] (2) A metaphorical comparison for people who contend for victory in argument rather than seeking truth.[30]
From: Sutrakritanga (English translation)
(1) Metaphorical representation of challenges or dangers that a sage must endure without being disturbed.[31]
The concept of Wild beast in local and regional sources
The keyphrase "Wild beast" signifies both the physical prowess of a lion king's son over animals, the chaos posed by ferocious creatures, and serves as a metaphor for Mahirakula’s disruptive actions against Buddhist law.
From: Buddhist records of the Western world (Xuanzang)
(1) A metaphor used by Baladitya-raja to describe Mahirakula's destructive actions against the law of Buddha.[32] (2) Animals that the son of the lion king could subdue, symbolizing his great bodily strength and connection to both man and beast.[33]
From: Triveni Journal
(1) Ferocious animals, symbolizing chaos and danger that threaten tranquility.[34]