Significance of Fiend
The term "Fiend," as described in the Purana and Dharmashastra, encompasses various meanings, primarily referring to evil beings or antagonists. It denotes individuals of base soul, like the queen conspiring against her lineage, and serves as a derogatory label for characters such as the one who abducted Rama’s wife. Fiends include the Asur, defeated by Angad, and transform into deceptive forms to disrupt holy rites. Additionally, the term metaphorically describes lower creatures that improperly consume meat, emphasizing a broader interpretation of moral corruption.
Synonyms: Devil, Demon, Monster, Wretch, Scoundrel, Villain, Evildoer, Brute, Rogue, Beast, Ogre, Miscreant
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Fiend'
In Hinduism, "Fiend" denotes evil beings opposing divine forces, characterized by villainy and wickedness, often transforming forms to disrupt sacred rites. Notable examples include antagonists like Vatapi and Ilval, embodying the conflict between good and evil.
From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Griffith)
(1) The fiend is one of the individuals that the group searched for in the southern land, as indicated in the provided text.[1] (2) The word 'fiends' refers to evil beings, suggesting a conflict between good and evil.[2] (3) The individual who will be slain, and they are considered more base in soul than their impious race.[3] (4) The text mentions the fiend setting a woman down within his home, indicating a character responsible for bringing her to a specific location.[4] (5) The fiends are mentioned in the text as those with whom Sita is conversing, and whose words the Vanar overhears while concealed.[5]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) A term used to describe a type of lower animal that always eats flesh incorrectly, serving as a metaphor for those who consume meat improperly.[6]