Significance of Learned Brahmana
The term "Learned Brahmana" encompasses a variety of interpretations across different philosophical and cultural contexts within Hinduism. It generally refers to educated priests or scholars recognized for their profound knowledge of religious texts, particularly the Vedic scriptures. These individuals are often consulted by kings for guidance on royal policies and rituals, embodying a significant role in spiritual and scholarly practices. The Learned Brahana is seen as a respected member of the Brahmana caste, expected to uphold ethical standards and contribute to society through their wisdom and learning.
Synonyms: Scholar, Sage, Pundit, Intellectual, Erudite, Knowledgeable person
In Dutch: Geleerde Brahmana; In Finnish: Oppinut Brahmana; In Spanish: Brahmana erudito; In German: Gelehrter Brahmane; In Malay: Belajar Brahmana; In Swedish: Lärde sig Brahmana; In French: Brahmane érudit
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Learned Brahmana'
The term "Learned Brahmana" in Buddhism signifies educated Hindu priests known for their expertise in Vedic texts, highlighting their recognition of a sage's omniscience and their role as interpreters in religious scholarship.
From: Tattvasangraha [with commentary]
(1) Educated priests or scholars in the Hindu tradition, typically recognized for their knowledge of religious texts.[1] (2) Scholarly individuals who study and interpret the Vedic texts, particularly noted for recognizing the omniscience of the revered great sage.[2]
Hindu concept of 'Learned Brahmana'
Learned Brahmanas in Hinduism are wise, knowledgeable individuals from the Brahmana caste, revered for their expertise in Vedic scriptures, rituals, and moral teachings, playing vital roles in guidance, education, and religious ceremonies within society.
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) Educated members of the priestly caste, recognized as credible witnesses even in minimal numbers.[3] (2) Learned Brahmanas are individuals well-versed in spiritual knowledge and practices, who are also expected to attain heaven due to their understanding and good deeds.[4] (3) A Brahmana who is well-versed in duties and law, with guilt quantified as sixty-four-fold for theft, reflecting his high level of responsibility and knowledge.[5] (4) A Brahmana who is knowledgeable and wise, capable of inheriting property if closer relatives fail.[6] (5) A Brahmana who is well-versed in the Vedas and is recognized for his knowledge, especially in a legal context.[7]
From: Apastamba Dharma-sutra
(1) An educated member of the Brahmana caste who is exempt from paying taxes.[8] (2) An educated and respected member of society, whose presence enhances the merit of the offerings made during hospitality.[9] (3) A Brahmana known for their knowledge, but who risks dietary purity by neglecting rituals or failing to adhere to caste rules.[10] (4) Refers to a wise or knowledgeable individual of the Brahmana caste, deserving salutation irrespective of his age.[11] (5) A knowledgeable priest or scholar whose death necessitates a pause in study for a full year or for one night and day depending on the timing.[12]
From: Baudhayana Dharmasutra
(1) A learned person in the spiritual community whose murder is considered one of the gravest sins, demanding sincere penance.[13] (2) A knowledgeable member of the Brahmana caste, whose life and teachings contrast with those who engage in usury or neglect sacred duties.[14] (3) A knowledgeable member of the priestly caste in Hindu society.[15] (4) Scholarly individuals who possess deep knowledge of the texts and rituals, important in the execution of offerings.[16] (5) A respected scholar or priest in Hindu society, particularly knowledgeable in sacred texts and rituals.[17]
From: Bharadvaja-srauta-sutra
(1) A knowledgeable individual who is responsible for carrying out rituals, including managing the fire.[18] (2) A knowledgeable priest who is eligible to receive gifts, particularly one who belongs to the gotra of Rishi.[19] (3) A knowledgeable priest or scholar from the Brahmana class who assists in the ritual by carrying forth the fire.[20] (4) A knowledgeable member of the priestly class, tasked with carrying out specific duties in the Agnihotra ritual.[21]
From: Vasistha Dharmasutra
(1) A knowledgeable member of the Brahmana caste, whose slayer incurs severe penance.[22] (2) Scholarly individuals well-versed in Vedic knowledge who do not contract guilt through specific actions.[23]
From: Hiranyakesi-grihya-sutra
(1) Scholars or priests in the Hindu tradition who are served food and presents during the rituals.[24] (2) A respected scholar or priest within the Hindu tradition, often a recipient of offerings or hospitality.[25]
From: Gautama Dharmasutra
(1) A wise or scholarly individual from the priestly caste in Hindu society, with particular significance in the context of penance for causing harm.[26]
From: Sankhayana-grihya-sutra
(1) A scholar or priest who is well-versed in religious texts and rites, deserving of offerings.[27]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) Refers to a knowledgeable priest who is skilled in sacred texts and rituals, crucial for monarchs desiring success.[28] (2) Scholarly priests in Hindu culture who are well-versed in religious texts and rituals.[29] (3) A wise and knowledgeable priest who plays a crucial role in reuniting Nala and Damayanti.[30] (4) A knowledgeable, often spiritual teacher from the Brahman caste in Hindu society, imparting wisdom and guidance.[31] (5) A knowledgeable priest participating in the discussion about the price for Cyavana, representing tradition and wisdom.[32]
From: Bhagavad-gita-mahatmya
(1) A knowledgeable priestly person who practices austerity and wisdom, exemplified by Haridiksita in the text.[33] (2) A scholarly priest in the Vedic tradition, specifically referring to Devashyama in the context of the story.[34] (3) A scholar of Vedic texts who suffers rebirth due to pride and jealousy, showcasing the principles of karma.[35]
From: Bhagavad-gita Mahatmya
(1) A wise and knowledgeable Brahmin named Hari Dikshita who was devoted to penance and sacred texts.[36]
From: Anugita (English translation)
(1) An educated individual who understands the essence of the great self and avoids delusion.[37]
From: Brihaddharma Purana (abridged)
(1) The knowledgeable priests and scholars who were summoned by King Prithu to understand the cause of his unhappiness.[38]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) Scholars or educated individuals in Navadvipa, who are depicted as being ineligible to receive the same level of mercy as Murari Gupta's servants.[39] (2) A brahmana who has acquired knowledge and education, and whose actions are expected to align with the high standards set by their scholarly background.[40] (3) Indicates a group of educated and scholarly individuals, particularly within the context of Nadia.[41] (4) A brahmana who has exceeded the common understanding of Vedic texts and possesses profound knowledge, often regarded as the best among his peers.[42] (5) Wise and knowledgeable brahmanas who live along the river Sarasvati and aim to dispel doubts through their faith and actions.[43]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) Learned brahmanas refers to the knowledgeable priestly class in Hindu society, recognized for their expertise in Vedic scriptures and rituals.[44] (2) Wise and knowledgeable scholars from the brahmana caste who are revered for their learning.[45] (3) A person who is knowledgeable, well-versed in scriptures, and follows traditional Hindu practices.[46]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) Individuals well-versed in various scriptures who impart knowledge and teachings.[47] (2) A knowledgeable and educated brahmana well-versed in religious texts and philosophy.[48]
From: Thirty minor Upanishads
(1) Spiritual practitioners who possess deep knowledge and understanding of sacred texts and practices.[49]
From: Brihat Samhita
(1) Scholars who are honored and whose presence is essential in the performance of rituals.[50]