Significance of Yajnavalkya
Yajnavalkya is a significant figure across various Indian philosophical traditions, including Hinduism, Jainism, Vaishnavism, Purana, Ayurveda, and Dharmashastra. In Hinduism, he is portrayed as a learned sage and philosopher known for his profound knowledge, particularly in areas concerning Vedic texts, rituals, and the nature of existence. Additionally, he is recognized for his contributions to spiritual discourse, ethical conduct, and legal principles. His teachings have influenced discussions on sacrifice, knowledge, and the nature of the self, highlighting his integral role in ancient Indian thought.
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Yajnavalkya'
Yajnavalkya, a pivotal figure in Hinduism, is revered for his contributions to law, inheritance rights, philosophical teachings, and ritual practices, notably encapsulated in the Yajnavalkyasmriti, emphasizing social order, duties, and spiritual knowledge.
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) A significant figure or author referenced in the context of Vedic studies, contributing to philosophical and legal texts within Hindu tradition.[1] (2) A notable figure whose work supports the claim regarding the purity of deer’s flesh as affected by various hunters.[2] (3) An ancient text referenced for a varied list.[3] (4) An author referenced in the text, known for his regulations regarding land use and livestock grazing.[4] (5) A commentator who advises on incompatible acts and the prescriptive avoidance of harmful substances.[5]
From: Yajnavalkya-smriti (Vyavaharadhyaya)—Critical study
(1) An ancient Indian sage whose opinions on intercaste marriage and property inheritance are referenced in the legal framework of the time.[6] (2) An early writer who is credited with providing a list of twenty writers on dharma.[7] (3) An ancient sage and lawgiver who discusses the concept of paunarbhava in relation to the social practices surrounding remarriage.[8] (4) An authoritative figure who entitled daughters, widows, mothers, and wives with rights of inheritance, influencing modern inheritance practices.[9] (5) An ancient Indian sage and lawgiver who formulated laws concerning ethical conduct, particularly about women and sexual offences.[10]
From: The Skanda Purana
(1) An intelligent figure who installed a Linga, which inspired Pippalada to follow suit.[11] (2) A renowned sage recognized in the text, contributing to the wisdom and practices associated with religious rites.[12] (3) The highly esteemed court philosopher of Janaka of Mithila and brother of Pippalada's mother.[13] (4) A revered figure whose reputation the Brahmanas aimed to protect in their interactions regarding the expiatory rites.[14] (5) A distinguished sage known for attaining supreme knowledge and spiritual form, emblematic of the benefits provided by Brahmakunda.[15]
From: The Bhagavata Purana
(1) A revered yogin and philosopher credited for imparting spiritual knowledge to the Mithila kings and enabling their expertise in the Science of the Soul.[16] (2) A sage from Kosala who received yoga teachings from Hiranyanabha.[17] (3) A prominent disciple of Vaishampayana who boasted of his penance abilities, leading to his expulsion and subsequent significant events regarding the Vedas.[18]
From: The Padma Purana
(1) A sage known for rajasa teachings that lead to heaven.[19]
From: The Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) The best of the Rishis who recited hymns to Sarasvati Devi, initially cursed by his Guru, leading to a loss of memory and learning.[20]
From: The Vishnu Purana (Taylor)
(1) The great law-giver and guru of Parashara, a figure significant in the development of law and wisdom in Sanskrit literature.[21]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) A sage who explains the order of creation and destruction of various principles.[22]
From: The Gautami Mahatmya
(1) The leading brahmin and priest of king Janaka who provides wisdom on the means of attaining salvation.[23]
From: The Brahmanda Purana
(1) A sage known for his exceptional knowledge and insight into the Vedas; he emerged victorious in the argument during the horse-sacrifice.[24]
From: Brihadaranyaka Upanishad
(1) A sage referred to by Ushasta, who provides explanations regarding the self and Brahman.[25] (2) A sage and scholar who is questioned about the Sutra and the Internal Ruler by Uddalaka.[26] (3) A knowledgeable sage who answers questions about the gods and the nature of existence in the texts.[27] (4) A key figure in the text who engages in philosophical dialogue regarding the nature of life, death, and liberation.[28] (5) A sage figure engaged in dialogue regarding the nature of the self and knowledge, providing teachings about transcendent reality.[29]
From: Thirty minor Upanishads
(1) The great muni who approaches Adityaloka to seek knowledge about Atma-tattva.[30] (2) A revered sage included among the first kind of bhikshus seeking moksha.[31] (3) A prominent sage who provides detailed explanations about the nature of Jiva and Ishvara.[32]
From: Prasthanatrayi Swaminarayan Bhashyam (Study)
(1) A prominent sage in the Upanishads known for his philosophical dialogue with Gargi and elucidation of Brahman’s nature.[33]
From: Satapatha-brahmana
(1) A referenced figure who advocates pressing the Soma during the sacrifice, connecting the ritual process with divine satisfaction.[34] (2) A prominent figure in the text who is questioned about his knowledge and is considered learned in sacred writ.[35] (3) Another Brahmana known for his deep inquiries into the nature of Agnihotra and for discussing its significance.[36] (4) A learned individual in whom the procedure and significance of the Mitravinda Sacrifice was found.[37]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) Yajnavalkya is a prominent figure mentioned in the text, known as a great sage.[38] (2) A notable sage referenced in the text, recognized as the 'king of sages.'[39] (3) A prominent sage and philosopher in ancient Indian texts, known for his contributions to spiritual knowledge and wisdom.[40]
From: Bhajana-Rahasya
(1) A learned sage whose intelligence was bewildered by Maya-devi, leading to confusion about the true nature of dharma.[41]
From: History of Indian Medicine (and Ayurveda)
(1) A sage known for his teachings on the futility of material wealth in the pursuit of knowledge and immortality.[42]
From: Shaiva Upanishads (A Critical Study)
(1) A sage who provides insight into the effects of Bhasmadharana and liberation.[43]
From: Parama Samhita (English translation)
(1) An innovator whose teachings and those of his predecessors play a critical role in understanding the doctrinal positions within the Gita.[44]
Jain concept of 'Yajnavalkya'
Yajnavalkya in Jainism is interpreted as a Brahman who uncovers the deceit of Gunavati’s mother, highlighting his role as a friend to Nayadatta’s sons and a figure of truth in the narrative.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) A Brahman and friend of Nayadatta’s sons who reveals the deceit of Gunavati's mother.[45]
The concept of 'Yajnavalkya' in local and regional sources
Yajnavalkya is recognized as a scholar highlighting the importance of ministers as one of the seven elements of the state, emphasizing their critical role in governance and administration within ancient Indian political thought.
From: Impact of Vedic Culture on Society
(1) A scholar who mentioned that ministers are one of the seven elements of the state.[46]