In Hinduism

Purana and Itihasa (epic history)

Source: archive.org: Shiva Purana - English Translation

Vyarthī (व्यर्थी) refers to “(having become) futile”, according to the Śivapurāṇa 2.3.44 (“Menā regains consciousness”).—Accordingly, as Brahmā narrated to Nārada: “Menā cried aloud frequently and spoke to the gods—‘My daughter will not be given to Śiva of fierce features. Why have you all conspired together to render her beauty futile (vyarthī)?’ O excellent sages, when she uttered thus, the seven sages, Vasiṣṭha and others, came there and spoke:—[The seven sages said:—] ‘O daughter of the Pitṛs, O beloved of the mountain, we have come here to achieve a purpose. In this important affair how can we entertain opposite views? The very vision of Śiva is the greatest gain. He has come to your palace as the suppliant for your gift’. ”.

context information

The Purana (पुराण, purāṇas) refers to Sanskrit literature preserving ancient India’s vast cultural history, including historical legends, religious ceremonies, various arts and sciences. The eighteen mahapuranas total over 400,000 shlokas (metrical couplets) and date to at least several centuries BCE.

In Jainism

General definition (in Jainism)

Source: The University of Sydney: A study of the Twelve Reflections

Vyarthī (व्यर्थी) refers to “useless”, according to the 11th century Jñānārṇava, a treatise on Jain Yoga in roughly 2200 Sanskrit verses composed by Śubhacandra.—Accordingly, “When Yama is an opponent of embodied souls, all elephants, horses, men, and soldiers and the powers of mantras and medicines become useless (vyarthī—vyarthībhavanti). While any person does not hear the merciless roaring of Yama’s lion, in that time he leaps about having pleasure in only [his own] power”.

context information

Jainism is an Indian religion of Dharma whose doctrine revolves around harmlessness (ahimsa) towards every living being. The two major branches (Digambara and Svetambara) of Jainism stimulate self-control (or, shramana, ‘self-reliance’) and spiritual development through a path of peace for the soul to progess to the ultimate goal.

See also (Relevant definitions)

Partial matches: Vi, Artti, Arthin.

Starts with: Vyarthibhu, Vyarthikar, Vyarthikri.

Relevant text

Search found 1 books and stories containing Vyarthi, Vyarthī, Vi-arthī, Vi-arthi; (plurals include: Vyarthis, Vyarthīs, arthīs, arthis). You can also click to the full overview containing English textual excerpts. Below are direct links for the most relevant articles:

Sahitya-kaumudi by Baladeva Vidyabhushana (by Gaurapada Dāsa)

Text 4.94 < [Chapter 4 - First-rate Poetry]

show preview