Significance of Brahmana
Synonyms: Priest, Scholar, Brahmin, Religious leader, Teacher, Theologian, Sage, Cleric, Religious treatises, Ancient scriptures
In French: Brahma; In German: Brahmana; In Finnish: Brahmana; In Spanish: Brahmana; In Swedish: Brahmana; In Malay: Brahmana; In Dutch: Brahmaan
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Brahmana'
In Buddhism, the term Brahmana denotes an individual of high spiritual attainment, evolving from its original Hindu reference as priests or scholars, focusing on ethical attributes, meditation, and the realization of moral and spiritual excellence.
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) A term used for a priest or one who embodies higher knowledge and moral standards, reflecting the purity of the spiritual path.[1] (2) A term used for a saint or enlightened being, illustrating an individual who has transcended worldly attachments and embodies moral and spiritual excellence.[2] (3) A person described as a true Brahmin; refers to an individual who is unfettered and free from worldly attachments.[3]
From: Vinaya (2): The Mahavagga
(1) A priestly class, here represented by the domestic chaplain to king Brahmadatta of Kasi.[4] (2) A class of religious teachers or priests in Hindu society, to whom the Blessed One showed the conquered Naga.[5] (3) A term referring to individuals who are expected to honor and revere the Uposatha service, as mentioned by the Blessed One.[6]
From: Vinaya Pitaka (1): Bhikkhu-vibhanga (the analysis of Monks鈥� rules)
(1) A term originally referring to a class of priests or wise individuals in Hinduism that evolved within the Sakyan context to represent someone of the highest spiritual attainment.[7] (2) A term with a long and complicated history, referring to members of a sect and as men or monks who have attained or failed to attain ethical attributes and mental development.[8]
From: Maha Buddhavamsa鈥擳he Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) One who has done away with evil, originally referring to a practitioner of meditation.[9]
From: Guide to Tipitaka
(1) A social status achieved through one's actions rather than by birth, as illustrated by the teachings in the Vasala Sutta.[10]
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) A member of the priestly class in ancient India, often associated with spiritual learning and rituals.[11] (2) Refers to a priestly or scholarly class in Indian society, included in those whom Ananda did not preach to.[12] (3) A term used to denote a member of the priestly class in Hindu society, to whom king Sa-p鈥檕-ta-to gave his chained body.[13] (4) A term that refers to a member of the priestly class in traditional Indian society. In this text, it also relates to the enlightened teachings of the Buddha.[14] (5) The priestly class, reborn from the act of giving and moral living, focusing on knowledge and wisdom.[15]
From: Tattvasangraha [with commentary]
(1) A group of Hindu scholars or priests who study and interpret the Vedas, contributing to the philosophical discourse surrounding cognition.[16] (2) A member of the priestly class in Hindu society, associated with knowledge of the Vedas and rituals.[17] (3) A class of individuals traditionally regarded as priests or scholars within the Vedic tradition, often involved in the interpretation of Vedic texts.[18] (4) A caste or class within the Hindu society tasked with the interpretation and transmission of sacred knowledge, specifically the Veda.[19]
Hindu concept of 'Brahmana'
Brahmana in Hinduism refers to members of the priestly caste, recognized for their spiritual knowledge and responsibilities in performing rituals, teaching, and safeguarding sacred texts, and are considered crucial figures in religious practices and societal duties.
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) A member of the highest Hindu caste traditionally responsible for study, teaching, and the performance of rituals.[20] (2) A term used to refer to a member of the priestly class in Hindu society, often associated with learning and spiritual authority.[21] (3) A title given to a learned scholar or priest class in the Indian social system, highlighting the character receiving darshana.[22] (4) A member of the priestly class in Hindu society, symbolizing respect and the importance of proper worship.[23] (5) A member of the priestly class in Vedic society, often associated with knowledge and spirituality.[24]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) A term referring to a class of priests or scholars in the Vedic tradition who are recipients of rewards.[25] (2) A member of the priestly class in Hindu society, traditionally responsible for spiritual rituals and teachings.[26] (3) A group of priests or learned individuals to whom Nanda donated the million cows.[27] (4) A brahmana.[28] (5) A term used in the text to refer to a specific class of individuals, typically scholars and priests in the Hindu tradition.[29]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) An address used by Gopa-kumara, often referring to a learned or spiritually elevated person.[30] (2) Members of the priestly class in Hindu society responsible for rituals and scriptures.[31] (3) Referring to Lord Brahma; the creator in Vedic cosmology.[32] (4) a member of the priestly class in Hindu society, who began to search for the weeping person[33] (5) A person who is to receive the narration of experiences, indicated to be in need of benefit from such stories.[34]
From: Chaitanya Mangala
(1) A social class in the context of the text, described as followers who are deeply connected to Lord Gaura and whose hearts are filled with devotion.[35] (2) Members of the priestly caste in Hindu society known for their spiritual learning and duties.[36] (3) The priestly class in Hindu society known for their spiritual wisdom and knowledge; in this context, Shrivasa is referred to as the jewel among them.[37] (4) A term referring to a person belonging to the priestly caste, in this context described as an offender and an obstacle in the festival of glorifying Lord Krishna.[38] (5) Priestly class in society whom Lord Gaurangacandra offered a great feast after performing the kushandika ritual.[39]
From: Sri Krishna-Chaitanya
(1) Traditionally regarded as the priestly class in Hindu society, who have the responsibility of performing rituals and leading spiritual practices.[40] (2) A class or status in Hindu society traditionally associated with learning and spirituality, which goes beyond mere birthright to include natural disposition.[41] (3) A group of priests considered knowledgeable in Vedic scriptures; they perform essential religious rituals.[42] (4) The priestly caste in Hindu society responsible for studying and teaching the Vedas and upholding spiritual practices.[43] (5) A division of ancient Indian scriptures associated with rituals, which also uses the designation Gauda to describe a particular style of Sanskrit rhetoric.[44]
From: Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu
(1) A member of the priestly caste in Hindu society, often associated with wisdom and spiritual knowledge.[45] (2) Members of the priestly caste in Hindu society, known for their scholarly and spiritual pursuits.[46] (3) A person of the priestly class in Hindu society, respected for their spiritual role and guidance.[47] (4) A member of the priestly class in Hindu society, often associated with spiritual knowledge and rituals.[48] (5) A member of the highest Hindu caste traditionally responsible for religious rituals and teachings.[49]
From: Srila Gurudeva (The Supreme Treasure)
(1) Intellectual and spiritual leaders in society who are well-versed in the Vedas and perform sacrifices.[50] (2) A member of the priestly caste in Hindu society, which Pandita Baleshvaranatha identified with, causing conflict over prasada.[51] (3) A form of the Supreme Lord representing knowledge and wisdom.[52] (4) A caste in Hindu society traditionally associated with priestly duties and intellectual pursuits.[53] (5) A member of the priestly caste, traditionally responsible for performing rituals and teaching spiritual principles.[54]
From: Haribhakti-sudhodaya
(1) The priestly class in society, respected for their spiritual knowledge and practices.[55] (2) Members of the priestly class in Hindu society, often tasked with performing rituals and upholding spiritual traditions.[56] (3) Scholars and practitioners of Vedic teachings who seek wisdom.[57]
From: Bhajana-Rahasya
(1) A member of the priestly caste in Hindu society, traditionally considered to be learned in scriptures and spiritual practices.[58] (2) the highest of the four varnas in the varnashrama system; a priest or teacher.[59]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) A member of the priestly class in Hindu society, often associated with wisdom and learning.[60] (2) A member of the priestly class in Hindu society, often associated with knowledge, learning, and the performing of rituals.[61] (3) Refers to Jaratkaru's status as a Brahmana, which raises questions about his lifestyle choices, including taking a wife.[62] (4) Members of the priestly class in Hindu society, responsible for performing rituals and maintaining sacred knowledge.[63] (5) A class of priests or scholars in Hindu society mentioned for conveying messages regarding king Nala.[64]
From: Garuda Purana
(1) A class of learned individuals in the Hindu tradition, often regarded with respect.[65] (2) A caste in Hindu society, often tasked with performing rituals and imparting knowledge, who plays a significant role in the recitation and performance of the Vrata.[66] (3) A member of the priestly caste in Hindu society, often associated with scholarship and spirituality.[67] (4) Brahmin priests or scholars to whom gifts are to be made at the conclusion of worship.[68] (5) A member of the priestly class in Vedic tradition tasked with performing rituals, studying scriptures, and teaching.[69]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) A class of priests and scholars in Hindu society, traditionally tasked with knowledge of the Vedas and performing rituals.[70] (2) The learned individuals who King Pariksit brought together for protection and the performance of rituals.[71] (3) A member of the priestly caste in Hindu society, often responsible for performing sacred rites and rituals.[72] (4) A member of the priestly class in Hindu society, indicated to attain freedom from sins through the recitation of Gayatri.[73] (5) A member of the highest caste in Hindu society, traditionally priests or teachers.[74]
From: Harivamsha Purana
(1) Members of the priestly class who gain knowledge through recitation, involved in spiritual activities.[75] (2) Learned individuals of the Vedic tradition, whose welfare is stressed as essential for the world's well-being.[76] (3) A class of texts and people related to Vedic rituals and philosophy, closely tied to the Rishis.[77] (4) The learned individuals whom Janamejaya worshipped, indicating the importance of rituals and respect in his rule.[78] (5) Ancient texts that contain teachings regarding the knowledge and power of deities, referenced as sources for understanding the divine.[79]
From: Anugita (English translation)
(1) A class of individuals devoted to performing duties in accordance with Vedic texts and spiritual practices.[80] (2) The creators of the world, a caste of scholars and priests who are considered spiritually significant.[81] (3) A class of individuals in society tasked with spiritual guidance and maintaining sacred knowledge and rituals.[82] (4) Refers to a member of the priestly class in Hindu society, indicating someone who is knowledgeable and carries out specific religious duties.[83] (5) The priestly caste that represents knowledge, learning, and religious authority in Hinduism, referenced throughout the Anugita.[84]
From: Brihaddharma Purana (abridged)
(1) The priests performing the sacrifice, who witness the events unfold but return to their rituals with a sad heart.[85] (2) A group of learned men in Hindu society that Vamana speaks to in his quest for land.[86] (3) A caste derived from the mouth of Vishnu, responsible for performing sacrifices, studying, and teaching the Vedas.[87] (4) A term used to refer to the priestly class or scholars who perform rituals and study sacred texts.[88] (5) The priestly class in Hindu society with whom Vishnu and his incarnations have a significant connection.[89]
From: Nilamata Purana
(1) A member of the priestly class in Hindu society, often involved in religious rituals and spiritual practices.[90] (2) Priestly class in Hindu society responsible for performing rituals and offering guidance in spiritual matters.[91] (3) The priestly class in Vedic society responsible for conducting rituals and offering sacrifices.[92] (4) Priestly class in Hindu society known for their knowledge of scriptures, rituals, and religious practices.[93]
From: Bhagavad-gita Mahatmya
(1) A member of the priestly class who holds knowledge of rituals and scriptures, exemplified by sage Siddhasamadhi in the context.[94] (2) A priestly figure who is requested to recite the seventeenth chapter of the Gita for healing.[95] (3) A religious figure who walks fearlessly past the elephant, representing faith and divine connection.[96] (4) A priestly figure who imparts wisdom and knowledge to the king regarding the horse's fate.[97]
From: Bhagavad-gita-mahatmya
(1) A member of the priestly class in Hindu society, who is knowledgeable in Vedic texts and conversant with spiritual matters.[98] (2) A learned priest or scholar in Hindu tradition, portrayed in the text as a peaceful figure who calms the mad elephant through recitation of verses.[99] (3) A learned and merciful individual who understands the essence of Vedic literatures and regularly recites the Bhagavad-gita.[100]
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) Prose texts that explain the rituals and ceremonies of the Vedic tradition.[101] (2) Members of the priestly class in Indo-Aryan society, associated with religious rituals and knowledge.[102]
From: Sanatsujatiya (English translation)
(1) A term describing a priestly class in Hindu society, with an emphasis on spiritual knowledge rather than mere ritualistic practices in the Sanatsujatiya.[103] (2) A class of individuals typically responsible for religious rituals and teachings, known for their knowledge of the Vedas.[104]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) A member of the priestly class in Hindu society, particularly in the context of laws relating to theft against their property.[105] (2) A member of the twice-born caste who is required to perform specific expiatory rites upon consuming defiled food or substances.[106] (3) The highest caste in Hindu society, associated with priestly duties and rituals, from which other lower castes may derive.[107] (4) A member of the priestly class in Hindu society, whose slaying incurs specific expiatory rites.[108] (5) A group of scholars and priests in Hindu society who study and interpret sacred texts.[109]
From: Bharadvaja-srauta-sutra
(1) Scholarly priests or religious individuals to whom offerings such as rice should be presented.[110] (2) A member of the priestly class to whom the cow may be given on the pressing day.[111] (3) The guardians of the sacrifice, who ensure the correctness of the proceedings.[112] (4) A member of the priestly class in Vedic society, here referenced in connection to the redistribution of offerings.[113] (5) A member of the priestly class in Vedic society, significant for performing rituals and sacrifices.[114]
From: Sankhayana-grihya-sutra
(1) A priestly class of people in Hindu tradition to whom offerings may be given post-ceremony.[115] (2) A text or individual that provides wisdom or teachings related to the rituals and practices being followed.[116] (3) A class of priests or scholars in ancient Indian society, to whom a student must give something as a form of penance or respect.[117] (4) A class of priests and scholars in Hindu society responsible for performing rituals and sacrifices.[118] (5) Members of the priestly class in Hindu society, to whom certain offerings are made during rituals.[119]
From: Hiranyakesi-grihya-sutra
(1) A class of priests and scholars in Hindu society, considered sacred and knowledgeable.[120] (2) A member of the priestly class in Hindu society, whose guidance is sought during rituals.[121] (3) Members of the priestly class in Hindu society who receive offerings after the described rituals.[122] (4) The priests or learned individuals for whom food is served as an offering during the ceremony.[123] (5) The priestly class responsible for performing rituals and sacrifices.[124]
From: Paraskara-grihya-sutra
(1) The individual conducting the rituals, entreating the deities for protection and expiation.[125] (2) The priestly class in Hindu society; during sacrificial rites, they are recipients of food offerings as part of customary practices.[126] (3) A member of the highest Hindu caste traditionally responsible for religious rituals and teachings.[127] (4) An Hindu priestly class to whom food is distributed after rituals, involved in various ceremonial practices.[128] (5) A priestly class in Hindu society that is fed by the father as part of the naming ceremony.[129]
From: Apastamba Grihya-sutra
(1) A member of the priestly class who is involved in various ritualistic activities, such as sitting on Darbha grass.[130] (2) A priestly class in Hindu society to whom offerings (such as the divided cake) are made.[131] (3) The priestly class to whom cakes, flour, and boiled rice are served during the final stages of the rituals.[132] (4) A type of ancient Indian text that provides guidance on rituals and name meanings.[133] (5) A priestly class involved in the performance of rituals and the pronouncement of auspicious wishes during ceremonies.[134]
From: Apastamba Dharma-sutra
(1) A member of the highest caste in Hindu society, traditionally responsible for religious rituals, priesthood, and scholarship.[135] (2) Individuals who assist in the rite by consuming offerings and symbolizing sacred fire in the ceremony.[136] (3) A member of the highest caste in Hindu society known for their roles in religious practices and rituals.[137] (4) A member of the highest caste, for whom special privileges in the context of road use are granted.[138] (5) A member of the priestly class in Hindu society, who is given particular respect and whose presence must be honored in specific rituals.[139]
From: Gobhila-grihya-sutra
(1) A member of the priestly class in Hindu society who may perform offerings on behalf of others.[140] (2) A person of the priestly class in Vedic society, to whom the remains of the Madhuparka should be given.[141] (3) Priestly class who may partake in or receive offerings during rituals, especially those related to food remnants.[142] (4) Priestly class who are called to pronounce auspicious wishes during the rituals.[143] (5) Individuals engaged in priestly duties, who participate in sacrificial rituals and lend their verses and prayers during ceremonies.[144]
From: Asvalayana-grihya-sutra
(1) The priests or learned individuals invoked during the ritual to perform the shaving of the boy鈥檚 hair.[145] (2) A priestly class in Hindu society responsible for conducting rituals and chanting sacred texts.[146] (3) A group of priests or scholars in the Hindu tradition to whom the person should offer cows and food.[147] (4) The Brahmanas are texts that, when recited, lead to offerings of ambrosia.[148] (5) Priestly class invited to partake of food offerings during the ceremony.[149]
From: Baudhayana Dharmasutra
(1) A member of the highest caste in Hindu society, tasked with performing sacred rituals and maintaining spiritual knowledge.[150] (2) Priestly class within Vedic tradition responsible for religious rites and teachings.[151] (3) A member of the priestly caste, acknowledged for their role in religious practices.[152] (4) The highest caste in the varna system, typically associated with priestly duties and learning.[153] (5) A class or group within the Hindu social structure, traditionally priests or scholars.[154]
From: Gautama Dharmasutra
(1) Members of the priestly and scholarly class in Hindu society; they are regarded as virtuous and knowledgeable.[155] (2) A member of the priestly caste in Hindu society, traditionally responsible for religious rituals and the maintaining of sacred knowledge.[156] (3) A member of the highest caste in Hindu society, known for their scholarship and spiritual duties.[157] (4) A member of the priestly class in Indian society, responsible for religious rituals and spiritual guidance.[158] (5) A member of the priestly caste in Hindu society, permitted to eat food offered by the twice-born, who are recognized for their faithful duty.[159]
From: Vasistha Dharmasutra
(1) A genre of texts that provide explanations and details regarding the rituals of the Vedas, serving as a bridge between the hymns and practical rituals.[160] (2) A member of the highest caste in Hindu society, traditionally priests and teachers with specific duties and regulations.[161] (3) A member of the priestly caste in Hindu society, often associated with the study and teaching of sacred texts and spiritual practices.[162] (4) The highest caste, responsible for studying and teaching the Vedas, performing sacrifices, and other spiritual duties.[163]
From: Khadira-grihya-sutra
(1) A member of the priestly class to whom a due portion of offerings should be given as part of the sacrificial rituals.[164]
From: Brahma Sutras (Shankaracharya)
(1) The Brahmana is a factor that must be known for each mantra to perform the sacrificial action correctly, and one who does not know the rishi, the metre, the divinity, and the Brahmana of the mantra runs against a post.[165] (2) This is a term that represents a relationship of unity, where different words describe the same individual, and it is used in the context of the relation of unity.[166] (3) The Brahmana is a person mentioned in the text who must permanently forego intoxicating liquor and have boiling spirits poured down their throat if they drink them.[167] (4) A member of the priestly class in Hindu society, associated with learning and spiritual knowledge, whose state is considered established prior to invoking it.[168] (5) A member of the priestly class in Hindu society, often associated with upholding Vedic traditions and rituals.[169]
From: Brahma Sutras (Ramanuja)
(1) A member of the priestly class in Hindu society, often associated with performing rituals and maintaining sacred knowledge.[170] (2) Refers to a member of the priestly caste in Hindu society, specifically mentioned as someone who must perform sacrifices.[171] (3) Scholarly texts that interpret the Vedas and provide insights into the nature of Brahman and its meditative practices.[172] (4) A category of people engaged in spiritual and scholarly activities, particularly associated with the study and teaching of the Vedas.[173] (5) A class of Hindu sacred texts that contain philosophical and ritual discussions, specifically referring to their teachings on the nature of the Self.[174]
From: Brahma Sutras (Shankara Bhashya)
(1) A portion of Vedic texts that provides commentary and explanations about rituals, including the nature of Vidya and its relation to sacrifice.[175] (2) Brahmanas are prose texts that explain the rituals and sacrifices mentioned in the Vedic literature, which are distinct from the philosophies found in the Upanishads.[176] (3) A term referring to the priestly class in Vedic tradition, mentioned as recipients of glory in the text.[177] (4) The priestly class that elaborated on Vedic rituals, leading to revolts by rationalist thinkers against sacrificial practices.[178]
From: Thirty minor Upanishads
(1) A member of the priestly class, here identified as one who has completed the requisite sacrifices.[179] (2) A member of the priestly class in Hindu society, often associated with learning and spiritual wisdom.[180] (3) A member of the priestly class in Hindu society, typically responsible for spiritual and religious duties.[181]
From: Chandogya Upanishad (Shankara Bhashya)
(1) Members of the priestly class in ancient Indian society, traditionally associated with spiritual knowledge and ritualistic practices.[182] (2) A member of the priestly caste, recognized for their adherence to truthfulness and spiritual duties.[183] (3) Component texts that provide the procedures to perform the rituals and explain their significance.[184]
From: Brihadaranyaka Upanishad
(1) Individuals knowledgeable about the Self and Brahman, who renounce worldly desires and live a mendicant life.[185] (2) Brahmanas are the noblest among the twice-born, created through Gayatri and are said to attain the highest end of their life by knowing its significance.[186]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad Bhashya Vartika
(1) A priest who is knowledgeable in the Vedas and who plays a key role in the recitation of sacred texts.[187] (2) A class of individuals in Hindu society traditionally known for their knowledge of the scriptures and rituals, and often responsible for teaching and preserving religious practices.[188]
From: Ishavasya Upanishad with Shankara鈥檚 Commentary
(1) A class of texts in Hindu scripture that are primarily prose and commentary on the rituals and concepts of the Vedas.[189]
From: Isopanisad (Madhva commentary)
(1) Textual portions of the Veda that provide explanations and commentary on the rituals, differing from the Mantra portions.[190]
From: Vakyapadiya of Bhartrihari
(1) A term that can refer to a member of the priestly class in Hindu society, which can also imply someone who is not a brahmana when combined with a negative particle.[191] (2) The term 'brahmana' is another word that signifies a role defined by certain actions, similar to 'putra'.[192] (3) A term referring to a specific class of individuals, which is qualified by other expressions within the context provided.[193] (4) A word used to denote a specific type of action or role that requires another action to be understood fully, indicating it does not stand for pure action.[194] (5) A term referring to a member of the priestly class in Hindu society, often involved in religious rituals.[195]
From: History of Indian Medicine (and Ayurveda)
(1) Textual works that elaborate on the rituals and philosophies behind Vedic practices, informing the understanding of sacrifices and their significance.[196] (2) Members of the highest caste in ancient Indian society, who study medicine to benefit all creatures.[197] (3) A member of the priestly class in Hindu society, significant in the context of Vedic rituals.[198] (4) A learned and respected person in the spiritual hierarchy who is honored during the purification rituals.[199] (5) A member of the priestly caste within Hindu society, often associated with knowledge and education.[200]
From: Sushruta Samhita, volume 4: Cikitsasthana
(1) Members of the priestly caste in Hindu society, often associated with knowledge, teaching, and rituals.[201]
From: Sushruta Samhita, volume 1: Sutrasthana
(1) A priest who is knowledgeable in Vedic literature and may provide spiritual support to physicians.[202]
From: Satapatha-brahmana
(1) A priest or scholar in Vedic tradition responsible for performing rituals and preserving sacred knowledge.[203] (2) Spiritual figures or priests in Hinduism who are tasked with performing rituals and maintaining sacred knowledge.[204] (3) A group of priestly individuals within Hindu tradition, tasked with performing rituals and prayers, particularly related to life-giving ceremonies.[205] (4) Scholars or practitioners knowledgeable in Vedic texts; their understanding of the Ashvamedha sacrifice is deemed crucial, as ignorance of it questions their status as Brahmanas.[206] (5) A class of individuals or texts in Vedic tradition tasked with performing and interpreting rituals and sacrifices.[207]
From: Brihat Samhita
(1) The priestly class that will suffer if the rainbow appears white at night.[208] (2) Refers to a group in society, notably indicated in the text as those for whom the characteristics of some oxen render them unfit.[209] (3) High caste individuals who will suffer if the fall occurs before midday.[210] (4) A classification of priests and scholars in Hindu society whose umbrellas are specified to be round in design.[211] (5) The learned individuals who perform rituals and must be properly honored.[212]
From: Abhinaya-darpana (English)
(1) The highest caste, represented by the hand gesture Shikhara while imitating holding the sacred thread.[213]
From: Natyashastra (English)
(1) Priestly class in Hindu society, referenced as authorities in the context of musical traditions and song classification.[214]
From: Samarangana-sutradhara (Summary)
(1) Priestly class responsible for reciting chants and performing rituals during the foundation ceremony.[215]
From: Vastu-shastra (Introduction to Indian architecture)
(1) Brahmanas are texts that provide elaborate descriptions of various religious structures and the principles behind their constructions, closely linked to sacrificial rituals.[216]
From: Parama Samhita (English translation)
(1) A group of ancient Indian texts that detail rituals and duties and may have been contemporaneous with the establishment of Pancaratra teachings.[217]
From: Kamashastra Discourse (Life in Ancient India)
(1) The priestly caste in the Hindu social hierarchy that the Dharmasutras specifically address in terms of conduct and responsibilities.[218]
From: Shukra Niti by Shukracharya
(1) Members of the priestly caste who are tasked with upholding knowledge of sacred texts and Dharma, often appointed by the king in legal matters.[219]
Jain concept of 'Brahmana'
In Jainism, "Brahmana" denotes the priestly class that denied sustenance to monks based on appearance, represents individuals embodying virtues like humility and non-anger, and refers to ancient Indian religious caste members whose philosophies are critically examined.
From: Sutrakritanga (English translation)
(1) Members of a religious caste in ancient India; their actions and philosophies are scrutinized in the context of the text.[220] (2) A person who has ceased from all sinful actions and embodies virtues such as non-anger, humility, and diligence.[221]
From: Uttaradhyayana Sutra
(1) Members of the priestly class who denied food to the monk due to his appearance and status.[222]
The concept of Brahmana in local and regional sources
Brahmana encompasses various aspects, including its definition as an early human form, representation of the priestly class responsible for rituals, a character in folklore, and its significance in Vedic literature and societal structure in Hindu culture.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) The section of Vedic literature focused on the theology and practical applications of the hymns in worship and rituals.[223] (2) Sacred sentences which enjoin something and are essential in understanding rituals.[224] (3) Refers to the social class to which Sraddhananda belongs, emphasizing the cultural implications of honor, pride, and revenge in the context of their dispute.[225] (4) Ancient texts that accompany the Vedas, detailing rituals and philosophical doctrines but lacking explicit references to idol worship.[226] (5) Priestly class in Vedic society who performed various rituals and sacrifices, believed to possess the knowledge of Vedic texts and the mechanisms to attain spiritual goals.[227]
From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda
(1) The second group of the Vedas, which deals with different kinds of sacrifice, and the word means what is achieved by means of the sacrifice.[228] (2) These are considered a part of the Vedas, specifically the ceremonial parts, and are also where the difficulties of the Samhitas fell back on.[229] (3) The individuals who are well-versed in the Vedas, causing the sky to echo with sounds of sacrifice, and are associated with the removal of delusion.[230] (4) These are ritualistic writings of which some Upanishads form portions, with the remaining Upanishads being independent but potentially linked to lost Brahmanas, illustrating the evolution of the Vedanta.[231] (5) They are a caste of people who were seated at the Svayamvara, and Arjuna was one of them.[232]
From: History of Science in South Asia
(1) These are texts that are part of the Vedic literature, focusing on ritual and offering insights into ancient Indian practices and beliefs.[233]
From: Village Folk-tales of Ceylon (Sri Lanka), vol. 1-3
(1) A character from the Panchatantra who, after feasting, planned to acquire wealth through strategic exchanges.[234] (2) A learned scholar and priest who provides prophecies and guidance within the story.[235] (3) A member of the priestly class, he is seized by the Rakshasi but is kept safe, leading to the birth of a child.[236] (4) A member of the priestly class in Indian society, who is depicted as wise and knowledgeable, often seeking advice.[237] (5) A character from a variant story who encounters a Crocodile after rescuing it from water.[238]