Significance of Younger brother
The term "Younger brother" carries significant meanings across various cultural and religious contexts. In Buddhism, it can denote familial relationships within the community or among spiritual figures, including connections to the Buddha. Jainism also illustrates various interpretations, linking younger brothers to significant characters and their stories. Similarly, in South Asia, it refers to siblings who support one another, while in Vaishnavism and Purana texts, it emphasizes loyalty, duty, and relational dynamics within family hierarchies. Overall, this concept reflects diverse familial roles and emotional bonds throughout these narratives.
Synonyms: Little brother
In Dutch: Jongere broer
In Finnish: Nuorempi veli
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Younger brother'
In Buddhism, the term "Younger brother" encompasses various figures, including historical and mythological siblings connected to themes of spiritual growth, conflict, greed, and familial dynamics, representing both challenges and aspirations in the pursuit of enlightenment.
From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) The sibling of the young nobleman, who follows him in religious life and shares in his experiences.[1] (2) Refers to Brahmadatta, who contrasted with Prince Peerless, demonstrating the familial dynamics and conflict.[2] (3) Character in the story who struggles with his desire for the Serpent-King's jewel and represents attachment and longing.[3] (4) The sibling who was eventually crowned king, whereas the elder brother rejected the position.[4] (5) A character who, out of greed, commits an evil act leading to the death of the Bodhisatta's nephew, paralleling themes of selfishness and consequences.[5]
From: Maha Buddhavamsa—The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) The brother of Tissa who received all the wealth after their father's passing and is married.[6] (2) The sibling who cut stems of cane for himself and his elder brother and made a meritorious gift of sugar-cane juice to the Paccekabuddha.[7] (3) The first younger sibling who takes an oath to assert that he did not steal the eldest brother's share of food.[8] (4) A technical designation for a magga-attainer in relation to a phala-attainer, highlighting the sequential nature of their experiences.[9]
From: Mahavamsa
(1) Refers to Tissa, whom the king called upon to complete the unfinished work of the thupa.[10] (2) Refers to the sibling relationship between a male who is less than a full sibling in age; in this context, Mahasiva is Uttiya's younger brother.[11] (3) Refers to Mahasena, who succeeded Jetthatissa as king.[12]
From: Dipavamsa (study)
(1) A reference to Suratissa, who was the younger brother of Devanampiya-Tissa and reigned for ten years.[13]
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) A term indicating smaller beings who are regarded with kindness and compassion as younger brothers.[14] (2) Shakyamuni in relation to his older brother, the Buddha Kashyapa.[15] (3) Vitashoka, who was the younger brother of King Ashoka.[16] (4) The sibling who planned to kill his older brother to acquire his gold.[17]
From: Mahavastu (great story)
(1) The sibling of the king who was given the throne while the king left to reside in Takshashila.[18]
From: Blue Annals (deb-ther sngon-po)
(1) The sibling of rin chen 'od zer, who followed the teachings and became learned in various Buddhist scriptures.[19] (2) A sibling of the siddha who also received teachings and attained spiritual realization through the doctrine.[20] (3) Refers to the individual who is described in the text, the protagonist, who had a previous existence as a king and a significant spiritual journey.[21] (4) Referred to as so rings, he was the taller sibling of the family who sought food during the famine.[22] (5) Refers to lun ldan, who was born in the year Earth Male Dragon (1148 A. D.) and is noted for his actions and influence from his elder brother.[23]
From: Apadana commentary (Atthakatha)
(1) Cunda's position relative to Sariputta, indicating his familial relationships and network within the Buddhist community.[24] (2) A relation to the Master, born from a different mother, who turned out to be the younger sibling of Buddha.[25]
Hindu concept of 'Younger brother'
In Hinduism, the term "younger brother" encompasses various interpretations, notably referring to Lakshmana, embodying familial roles, emphasizing loyalty, and highlighting hierarchical relationships among divine and human siblings in numerous narratives.
From: Ramayana of Valmiki
(1) A sibling who, while similar in stature to Dhumra, surpasses him in valour.[26] (2) A familial reference to a sibling, indicating a relationship of age and hierarchy among gods.[27] (3) Refers to Lakshmana’s relation to Rama, emphasizing their familial bond and Lakshmana's eagerness to support his brother in adversity.[28] (4) Refers to Sugriva, Bali's sibling, who is present with Bali at the moment of his death.[29] (5) A relative who is not as old as another brother within the family structure, often implying a subordinate position.[30]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) Refers to Krishna, highlighting his familial connection and the expectation of his assistance.[31] (2) Refers to Vrihaspati, who approached Mamata, indicating family dynamics within the story.[32] (3) The younger siblings of Duryodhana, who are involved in the conflict with the Gandharvas.[33] (4) A male sibling who is younger than another.[34] (5) Referring to Vicitravirya, the brother of Bhishma who has died and whose lineage must be continued.[35]
From: Padma Purana
(1) Refers to Lakshmana, Rama's brother, who is remembered alongside Rama by devotees.[36] (2) The sibling relationship where the younger sibling does not desire to follow the path of the elder sibling, indicating familial dynamics.[37] (3) Refers to Shatrughna, who goes after the horse in front of the king.[38] (4) Refers to Bharata, the sinful younger brother of Pundarika, who due to the grace of Pushkara, attains salvation despite his wrongdoings.[39] (5) Referring to Shatrughna, the brother of Rama, known for his bravery.[40]
From: Skanda Purana
(1) Refers to the siblings of Dharmaputra who accompany him on his quests and support him in various endeavors.[41] (2) The sibling of Sage Mandavya who is noted for his lean appearance due to intense penance.[42] (3) Refers to Arjuna's relationship to Dharmaputra, highlighting his noble lineage.[43] (4) Refers to Shantanu, the younger son of king Pratipa who ascended the throne after Devapi abandoned it.[44] (5) Referring to Vatapi, who is the sibling of Ilvala.[45]
From: Bhagavata Purana
(1) Referring to Bhima, who Yudhishthira speaks to regarding his concern for Arjuna's lengthy absence.[46] (2) The siblings of Vijitashva who were assigned different directions of the kingdom to rule.[47] (3) Yudhishthira's brothers, present during Vidura's return and showing joy upon his arrival.[48] (4) Yudhishthira's supportive siblings who accompanied him in governance.[49]
From: Harivamsha Purana
(1) Refers to the seven younger sons of Brahma mentioned by Sanatkumar.[50] (2) A familial relation requested by Kashyapa for the Lord to be born as.[51] (3) A reference to the familial relationship indicating respect or authority.[52] (4) Referring to Hiranyaksha, the sibling of Hiranyakashipu, who also had evil attributes.[53]
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) Air is likened to thought’s younger sibling due to its rapid movement and omnipresence.[54] (2) A term used to describe the gross light as a reflection of the holy light of divine Intellect.[55]
From: Gautami Mahatmya
(1) Aruna, who is described as the younger brother of the Naga.[56] (2) The sibling of Prithushravas who refrained from marrying out of fear of incurring sin.[57]
From: Brahmanda Purana
(1) Refers to the second son born of Khasha, characterized by deformed features and numerous abhorrent traits.[58] (2) Nimi is identified as the younger brother of Vikukshi, emphasizing familial connections.[59]
From: Shiva Purana
(1) Rudra is referred to as Brahma's younger brother, who aids and blesses Brahma during his troubled times.[60]
From: Linga Purana
(1) The siblings of Shakti who were also devoured by the demon Rudhira, highlighting the tragic nature of their fate.[61]
From: Brihaddharma Purana (abridged)
(1) Devaka, the brother of Ugrasena, who has a pivotal role in the story.[62]
From: Lalitopakhyana (Lalita Mahatmya)
(1) The description of Bhanda's brothers who entered the battlefield, highlighting the family involvement in war.[63]
From: Brahma Purana
(1) A mention of brothers' relationships within the context of character references in the text.[64]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) Refers to Shri Lakshmana, who is closely associated with Shri Ramacandra and supported by Hanuman.[65] (2) A reference to Shalva’s sibling in the context of Bhagavan's conversation.[66] (3) Refers to the affectionate relationship in which Gopa-kumara treats the Supreme Lord as his younger sibling.[67] (4) Refers to Upendra in relationship to Indra.[68] (5) Referring to Shri Bharata and Shri Lakshmana, siblings of Shri Ramacandra, who are included in the worship and devotion practices.[69]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) Refers to Prabodhananda, who is suggested in the commentary to be mistakenly identified with Prakashananda by some individuals.[70] (2) Refers to Nimai, who remains under the influence of Vishvarupa and is noted for his mischief and playful nature.[71] (3) Refers to Lakshmana as the sibling who is younger than Ramacandra.[72] (4) Represents Lakshmana's role while serving Lord Ramacandra, highlighting his submission and support.[73] (5) The sibling who is younger in age, specifically referring to Lakshmana in this context.[74]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) The sibling of a person who is less aged, specifically referring to Balarama's younger brother, Gada.[75] (2) This refers to the familial relationship, specifically indicating being the sibling of someone elder, in this case, associated with Indra.[76] (3) Refers to the siblings of Kamsa, specifically eight individuals.[77]
From: Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu
(1) Refers to Rupa, indicating his relationship with Sanatana Gosvami, emphasizing familial devotion.[78] (2) Refers to Balarama's younger brother, highlighting his relationship and affinity.[79] (3) Those who consider themselves in the role of younger siblings in relation to others.[80]
From: Tiruvaymoli (Thiruvaimozhi): English translation
(1) The siblings of Shri Rama, who accompany Him and play significant roles in His narrative.[81] (2) A reference to Shriramappililiai, who raises a question regarding the Alvar's distress and serves as a conduit for philosophical discourse.[82]
From: Prem Sagar (English translation)
(1) Referencing Nakula and Sahadeva, they are sent by Raja Yudhishthira to investigate the arrival of Krishna.[83]
From: Chaitanya Mangala
(1) A reference to Vishvambhara, also known as Lord Mahaprabhu, emphasizing familial relations.[84]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) Refers to the sibling who is younger in age, specifically in the context of marriage and family dynamics.[85] (2) The male siblings who must benefit from the family property along with the elder brother.[86] (3) Younger brothers are those who are to be treated with love and support by the eldest brother, and are not entirely subservient to him.[87] (4) A brother who is less than the elder in age, who can be chastised by his elder sibling.[88] (5) Siblings who are not the eldest brother and may not be entitled to inherit property, particularly if they are deemed inexperienced or incapable.[89]
From: Apastamba Dharma-sutra
(1) A male sibling who is younger than his elder brother, relevant in the context of marriage and inheritance rules.[90]
From: Baudhayana Dharmasutra
(1) A family role involved in the sacred fire kindling and offering process mentioned.[91]
From: Vasistha Dharmasutra
(1) In this context, it refers to a male sibling who is younger and the implications of marriage concerning family hierarchy.[92]
From: Gautama Dharmasutra
(1) The sibling who may need to wait for a specified duration before marrying, particularly if an elder brother has gone away.[93]
From: Hanuman Nataka (critical study)
(1) Lakshmana is portrayed as the abiding younger brother, demonstrating unwavering service to his elder brother, Rama.[94] (2) Bharata is described as the younger brother of Rama, highlighting his familial relationship and emotional connection.[95] (3) A male sibling who is younger than the older brother, specifically referencing Lakshmana's role in the text.[96] (4) Sugriva is the sibling of Vali, indicating a familial relationship.[97]
From: Abhinaya-darpana (English)
(1) Referred to as kanishtha, indicated by the Mayura hand shown backwards.[98]
From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)
(1) The merchant's son’s sibling who is banished by their father and lacks a chastened disposition.[99] (2) A term referring to characters in multiple stories who are often referred to older siblings for guidance.[100] (3) The sibling who becomes embroiled in the tragic events surrounding the elder brother's actions.[101]
Jain concept of 'Younger brother'
In Jainism, the term "younger brother" encompasses diverse familial relationships across various characters, emphasizing emotional connections, duties, and past lives, notably including figures like Bahubali, Krishna, and Rathanemi within a rich narrative framework.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) A character mentioned in relation to the kingdom, indicating that a well-trained individual may be better suited than a direct son.[102] (2) Dridharatha’s existence in a previous life, as explained by Lord Shantinatha.[103] (3) The siblings of Jahnu who participated in the discussions regarding the shrine.[104] (4) The reincarnated souls of Dhanadeva and Dhanadatta who became Citragati’s younger brothers.[105] (5) The familial connection between Pradyumna and Shamba, highlighting their past lives and duties to one another.[106]
The concept of Younger brother in local and regional sources
The "Younger brother" concept encompasses various characters across narratives, each illustrating complex sibling dynamics, ranging from supportive roles to tragic figures, emphasizing themes of familial ties, rivalry, and sacrifice within different stories.
From: Village Folk-tales of Ceylon (Sri Lanka), vol. 1-3
(1) Three-cubits, who is responsible for looking after Four-cubits.[107] (2) The sibling of the girl, who is also involved in agreeing to a suitor's request.[108] (3) The girl’s brother, who plays a pivotal role in helping to rescue and identify his sister.[109] (4) The younger brother is the sibling of the elder sister, who provides assistance when she comes to him for help after being left without resources.[110] (5) The ten younger brothers of Gonaka-Bokka who express dissatisfaction with their elder brother's idleness and decide to find a woman in marriage.[111]
From: Buddhist records of the Western world (Xuanzang)
(1) The brother of the king who mutilated himself to prevent evil risings and was later revealed to have acted out of foresight.[112] (2) Mahirakula's sibling to whom he entrusted the army for preparing to attack Baladitya.[113]
From: The travels of Fa-Hian (400 A.D.)
(1) The sibling of King Asoka who attained the dignity of an Arhat and preferred silent meditation in Gridhrakuta.[114]
From: Folklore of the Santal Parganas
(1) The younger sibling whose wife is suspected of infidelity and who experiences a turn of events after the elder brother's advice.[115] (2) The younger son who won all possessions from his elder brother, including the kingdom.[116] (3) The younger of the two brothers who does not have a wife and takes care of the cattle.[117] (4) Lita, the youngest of the six brothers, who showed remorse for the plan to kill their sister and was compelled to shoot the arrow that killed her.[118] (5) The sibling who requested the villagers' judgment after a quarrel with the elder brother.[119]
From: Triveni Journal
(1) Refers to the speaker's sibling, suggesting a sibling dynamic and possibly comparing their experiences.[120] (2) Refers again to Narasayya, emphasizing the familial dynamics and conflicts over property and emotional ties.[121]
From: Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints
(1) Referring to Sopan, who identifies himself in relation to his older siblings.[122]
From: Folk Tales of Gujarat (and Jhaverchand Meghani)
(1) The sibling who discovered Sonbai's voice emanating from the trees, leading to her resurrection.[123]