Significance of Yadava
The Yadava clan holds significant importance in Jainism, Vaishnavism, Purana, and Kavya, particularly due to their association with Lord Krishna. In Jainism, Yadava refers to various characters and their narratives, including those protecting Somashri and confronting adversaries like Jarasandha. In Vaishnavism, they are described as loyal companions of Krishna, recognized for their bravery and deep affection for Him. The Purana emphasizes their lineage from Yadu and trials faced during conflicts. Additionally, Kavya provides scholarly references linking Yadava to notable figures and contexts.
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Yadava'
Yadava in Hinduism signifies a prominent lineage connected to Lord Krishna, characterized by noble virtues, historical significance, and familial ties, often facing challenges from adversaries like Kamsa and embodying the essence of loyalty and bravery.
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) The clan surrounding Lord Krishna, symbolizing the community and supportive figures in the divine pastimes of the Lord.[1] (2) A group of people characterized as happily seated in the assembly named Shri Sudharma, described in terms of their attractiveness and decorations.[2] (3) A clan related to Lord Krishna, central to many narratives in Hindu scripture.[3] (4) The group of individuals who surrounded Shri Narada on the ground, indicating their respect and solidarity with him.[4] (5) A group known for bringing a variety of articles for worshipping Shri Narada.[5]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) The clan to which Lord Krishna belongs and to whom he presented the wealth obtained after his victory.[6] (2) Of the Yadavas; refers to a group involved in the tumultuous battle.[7] (3) A clan associated with Krishna and Balarama; the text indicates a desire to exclude them.[8] (4) A lineage or clan that Krishna and Balarama belong to, known for their bravery and strength.[9] (5) The group of people who observe Kakshivan as he boards the spiritual airplane and embarks on his journey.[10]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) A community that became embroiled in the conflict due to the actions of Duryodhana.[11] (2) The clan associated with Lord Krishna, viewed as eternal associates in His pastimes and revered for their unique relationship with Him.[12] (3) A community or clan known for their historical and mythological significance, often associated with the stories of Lord Krishna.[13]
From: Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu
(1) The group referred to in the text, considered as the associates of the Lord.[14]
From: Bhagavata Purana
(1) The clan to which Krishna belongs, who show loyalty and ambition, attempting to defeat their enemies and protect their king.[15] (2) A warrior clan to which Krishna belongs, involved in the battle against Shalva, emphasizing their collective struggle.[16] (3) The clan or lineage associated with Lord Krishna, which is prophesied to face extermination due to internal strife.[17] (4) A clan whose members, including Krishna, were targeted by Jarasandha after he was informed of his daughters' misery.[18] (5) The clan to which Lord Krishna belonged and who experienced grief after his passing.[19]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) A group of warriors and a clan, associated with the lineage of Lord Krishna, that plays a significant role in the epic narrative.[20] (2) The clan associated with Krishna, who used to hold their court at a place called Sudharma.[21] (3) A historical group and lineage associated with Krishna, also seeking lessons from Kripa.[22] (4) The descendants of Yadu, highlighting the lineage structure within Yayati's family.[23] (5) A clan associated with Krishna, mentioned in the context of Krishna's residence and interactions.[24]
From: Harivamsha Purana
(1) The clan to which Vasudeva's sons belong, present in the city to receive them.[25] (2) The community to which Vasudeva and other characters belong, facing challenges and fighting for survival.[26] (3) The clan or community to which Krishna and his family belong.[27] (4) The mighty car-warriors accompanying Krishna in his journey.[28] (5) A clan to which Krishna and Rama belong, recognized for their bravery and prowess in battle.[29]
From: Vishnu Purana
(1) The clan or community associated with Krishna, who seek his fortune and blessings.[30] (2) The clan to which Krishna and Balarama belong, accompanying Krishna to the wedding.[31] (3) The group associated with Krishna, whose destruction is chronicled in the eleventh book of the Bhagavata.[32] (4) A clan associated with Krishna, involved in the events surrounding the Syamantaka jewel and the conflicts it incites.[33] (5) The clan to which Krishna belongs, consistently defending against Jarasandha's attacks.[34]
From: Skanda Purana
(1) A term referring to the descendants of Yadu, to which Samba belongs.[35] (2) A clan that was eliminated, which leads to significant events surrounding Vasudeva and the significance of Bhalla Tirtha.[36] (3) A royal lineage to which Krishna belongs, noted as the greatest among them.[37] (4) A clan to which Krishna belonged, involved in the events surrounding the lake and the solar eclipse.[38]
From: Brahma Purana
(1) Refers to the clan to which Krishna belongs, who are concerned about Aniruddha's abduction.[39] (2) A community referenced throughout the narrative; they are the targets of both Kalayavana's fury and Krishna's strategic defense.[40] (3) Descendants of Yadu, a lineage highlighted in the text as significant and powerful within the broader genealogical history.[41] (4) A clan to which Balarama and Krishna belong, which Kamsa considers wicked and aims to eliminate.[42]
From: Padma Purana
(1) The clan to which Krishna belongs; mentioned here as attendants of Krishna in the context of Gunavati's story.[43] (2) The clan to which Krishna belongs, significant in the unfolding events of his life and battles.[44] (3) The clan or race of which Krishna is a member, often referenced in relation to their exploits.[45]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) The clan of Krishna, which faces dire prophecies about their downfall due to curses and human weaknesses.[46] (2) The lineage of Krishna that includes his relatives who faced misfortunes under a Brahmin's curse.[47] (3) A lineage within Hindu mythology, particularly associated with Lord Krishna.[48]
From: Vishnu Purana (Taylor)
(1) The descendants of Yadu, recognized for their lineage and significance in the context of Hindu mythology.[49] (2) The clan to which Krishna and Balarama belonged, who participated in the events surrounding the wedding.[50]
From: Agni Purana
(1) The clan that descended from Krishna, noted to comprise eighty thousand individuals who were protected by him.[51] (2) A community surrounding Raivata, indicative of social structures in the narrative.[52]
From: Matsya Purana (critical study)
(1) A dynasty founded by Yadu, one of the sons of Yayati, known for its prominence in ancient Indian history.[53] (2) The descendants of Kroshtu, who played a prominent role in the genealogy discussed.[54]
From: Brahmanda Purana
(1) A community to which Krishna belonged and which faced various challenges from divine and demonic forces.[55]
From: Naishadha-charita of Shriharsha
(1) An alternative reference for Vaijayanti used in scholarly circles.[56]
Jain concept of 'Yadava'
Yadava in Jainism encompasses various interpretations, highlighting a community mourning Vasudeva's alleged suicide, characters with distinct narratives, and the clan's ties to Krishna, reflecting complex interactions and legendary adventures within the tradition.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) A character who aspires to study the Vedas and eventually marries Somashri after defeating her.[57] (2) The chief of the Yadus, who embraced Vegavati upon their reunion.[58] (3) The people associated with Vasudeva who remained in the region after his wedding with Rohini.[59] (4) A character whose strength was increased by magic and who easily defeated the Khecaras.[60] (5) The clan to which Krishna belongs, facing off against Jarasandha's forces.[61]