Significance of Mahapurusha
Mahapurusha, in various spiritual contexts, refers to a great person or divine being revered for their enlightenment and significant contributions to spiritual welfare. In Vaishnavism, the term emphasizes the Supreme Personality associated with ultimate liberation, divine pastimes, and cosmic creation. Tibetan Buddhism and Purana also recognize Mahapurusha as a noble figure that embodies divine qualities. Furthermore, in Vedanta and Pancaratra, it highlights a higher state of consciousness that transcends forms. Overall, Mahapurusha signifies a supreme entity characterized by compassion and divine authority.
Synonyms: Great being, Great person, Exalted one, Holy man, Sage, Patriarch, Revered figure, Saint, Spiritual leader, Philanthropist
In Dutch: Mahapurusha; In German: Mahapurusha; In Finnish: Mahapurusha; In Spanish: Mahapurusha
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Mahapurusha'
Mahapurusha in Buddhism represents a revered enlightened being, celebrated for their profound impact on spiritual well-being and teachings, embodying qualities that inspire others on their journey toward enlightenment.
From: Blue Annals (deb-ther sngon-po)
(1) A great person or enlightened being, often venerated in Buddhist teachings for their significant contributions to spiritual welfare.[1]
Hindu concept of 'Mahapurusha'
Mahapurusha in Hinduism denotes a divine supreme being characterized by various forms, cosmic creation, and maintenance. Often ascribed remarkable virtues, this exalted entity inspires reverence, embodies ultimate reality, and signifies a higher state of consciousness.
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) Another term emphasizing the Supreme Lord's divine identity present during yajnas.[2] (2) the Supreme Personality often associated with ultimate liberation[3] (3) The noble personality observed by Shri Narada, associated with divine pastimes and accepting offerings.[4] (4) The Supreme Personality of Godhead, embodying the ultimate reality and existence.[5] (5) The thousand-headed form of the supreme being, characterized by divine qualities and responsible for cosmic creation and maintenance.[6]
From: Bhajana-Rahasya
(1) Mahapurushas are great souls who also long for the extraordinary prema experienced by the gopis; they illustrate the high regard for the gopis� love.[7] (2) a great personality; one who is expert in the imports of the scriptures.[8] (3) A great personality whose lotus feet are revered; offences against such a person can harden the heart.[9]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) A title given to the Supreme Personality of Godhead, indicating His greatness and ultimate authority.[10] (2) A great person or elevated being, characterized by numerous auspicious signs and qualities.[11]
From: Srila Gurudeva (The Supreme Treasure)
(1) A term of reverence used to address the Supreme Being, highlighting His characteristics as compassionate and devoted to the welfare of the universe.[12]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) The high souled Person referred to as Brahmanya Deva who creates the universe.[13] (2) A term referring to the Supreme Being, characterized as a high-souled personage that is the subject of admiration and worship.[14]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Shastri)
(1) A term that refers to a great being, identified as Kapila, embodying energy and wisdom.[15]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) Mahapurusha refers to the great supreme Purusha, emphasizing his singular and eternal nature compared to the diverse manifestations of the universe.[16]
From: Thirty minor Upanishads
(1) Maha-Purusha represents the supreme person or entity, recognized as the ultimate essence beyond all forms.[17]
The concept of Mahapurusha in local and regional sources
Mahapurusha, translating to 'great person', denotes both a measurement in theatre and symbolizes divine or semi-divine figures in Indian art, depicted with beauty, representing an idealized human form celebrated in cultural contexts.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) An exalted soul or holy person, often associated with the qualities of a Satguru.[18] (2) A type of character in Yaksha Gana that is exalted in nature, often depicted with a fine 'Makuta' and embodying grandeur.[19] (3) Mahapurushas are divine or semi-divine figures that are artistically depicted with exquisite detail and beauty in Indian art, representing an idealized human form.[20] (4) A term that translates to 'great person', used to establish measurements in theatre texts.[21]
From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda
(1) Then another thing is necessary, and that is the coming in direct contact with these, and thus moulding our lives in accordance with those of the great-souled ones who have reached the Goal.[22]