Significance of Supernatural power
Synonyms: Supernatural ability, Magic, Sorcery, Witchcraft, Enchantment, Mysticism, Divine power, Paranormal abilities, Magical abilities
In Dutch: Bovennatuurlijke kracht; In Finnish: Yliluonnollinen voima; In Spanish: Poder sobrenatural; In German: Übernatürliche Kraft; In Malay: Kuasa ghaib; In Swedish: Övernaturlig kraft; In French: Pouvoir surnaturel
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Supernatural power'
Supernatural power in Buddhism encompasses extraordinary abilities (abhijna) developed through mastery and meditation, enabling enlightened beings like the Buddha and bodhisattvas to perform miraculous feats, influence others, and promote spiritual growth.
From: Maha Buddhavamsa—The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) Extraordinary abilities developed through intense meditation and practice.[1] (2) Extraordinary abilities developed by the Buddha, enhancing his spiritual prowess and understanding.[2] (3) Extraordinary abilities attained through meditation and mental development, allowing monks special experiences.[3] (4) Extraordinary abilities exhibited by the Buddha to help King Bimbisara recognize the petas waiting for merit-sharing after his charitable deeds.[4] (5) Extraordinary abilities that the ascetic pupils exhibited, allowing them to perform miraculous feats in accordance with their spiritual training.[5]
From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) The supernatural ability used by the ogres to assist King Goodness, symbolizing forces beyond the human realm.[6] (2) The divine ability of Sakka to test the ascetics by making their food disappear.[7] (3) The supernatural ability of the spirit that enables the transportation of the ascetic and his provision of mangoes.[8] (4) The extraordinary abilities of the Bodhisatta that allowed him to communicate profound truths while suspended in mid-air.[9] (5) The abilities that the Bodhisatta developed while living as a hermit in the Himalayas.[10]
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) A special ability attributed to the Buddha that allowed him to perceive the thoughts and situations of individuals.[11] (2) Extraordinary abilities developed through deep meditation and concentration, considered advanced states of spiritual achievement.[12] (3) Buddha’s ability to sense the progress of the monks while they meditated in the forest.[13] (4) Supernatural abilities exhibited by the Buddha to create dark-blue and white rays to influence the environment and the behavior of the companions.[14] (5) The extraordinary ability of the Buddha to manifest a beautiful young lady to help illustrate the transient nature of beauty to Queen Khema.[15]
From: Visuddhimagga (the pah of purification)
(1) A form of knowledge that pertains to extraordinary abilities and insights associated with mental and spiritual practices.[16] (2) Exceptional abilities or attributes that denote a higher state of existence or realization, often associated with enlightened beings.[17] (3) Extraordinary abilities acquired through deep concentration and meditation, enabling a meditator to perform feats beyond normal human capabilities.[18] (4) Extraordinary mental abilities that allow one to perceive states of consciousness beyond typical human experience.[19] (5) Extraordinary capabilities that, while obtainable through concentration, can impede insight as they are difficult to maintain.[20]
From: Vinaya (2): The Mahavagga
(1) Special capabilities that are perceived as extraordinary or supernatural, exemplified by the abilities of the great Samana.[21] (2) The extraordinary capability that allows the Blessed One to affect natural elements, recognized by the Jatilas.[22] (3) The extraordinary abilities attributed to the Blessed One, often recognized by those around him.[23] (4) The supernatural abilities possessed by both the Naga king and the Blessed One which allow them to perform miraculous feats.[24] (5) The extraordinary abilities possessed by the Blessed One, allowing him to defeat the Naga.[25]
From: Mahavamsa
(1) Abilities beyond normal human capabilities, attributed here to the great theri Samghamitta.[26] (2) Supernatural abilities attributed to certain kings that allowed them to confront challenges, such as the yakkha threatening their subjects.[27] (3) The supernatural capability of the yakkhini that allows her to aid VIJAYA in fighting the yakkhas.[28] (4) Extraordinary abilities attained by individuals, referenced in the context of spiritual achievement.[29]
From: Abhidhamma in Daily Life
(1) Exceptional abilities that may develop as a result of advanced meditative practices, including abilities like mind-reading and recalling past lives.[30] (2) A special ability to know the hidden thoughts or states of consciousness of others.[31]
From: Cetasikas
(1) Extraordinary abilities developed through advanced meditation practices, including magical powers and memory of past lives.[32] (2) Supernormal powers (abhinnas) are abilities developed through meditation practices including jhana and vipassana, where chanda may play a significant role.[33]
From: Abhidhamma in Daily Life (by Ashin Janakabhivamsa)
(1) The extraordinary abilities attained through deep meditation, which can be overshadowed by moha.[34]
From: Guide to Tipitaka
(1) Extraordinary abilities the Buddha utilized to reflect on past precedents set by previous Buddhas in formulating regulations.[35]
From: Introducing Buddhist Abhidhamma
(1) Supernormal powers are extraordinary capabilities that arise from advanced meditative practices, such as the Celestial Ear and Celestial Eye which enable heightened perception beyond normal human abilities.[36]
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) Special abilities or insights that an enlightened being possesses, which can serve to protect and enhance the practice of generosity.[37] (2) Exceptional abilities aimed at expediting the process of delivering beings from their suffering.[38] (3) The ability to perform supernatural feats, which is categorized into four bases that warrant thorough examination.[39] (4) The immense superknowledge that a person gains through dhyanas, allowing them to travel and praise the Three Jewels.[40] (5) Powers known as abhijna that allow a rishi to perform extraordinary feats and influence events significantly.[41]
From: Mahavastu (great story)
(1) Abilities attained by Maha-Maudgalyayana following his ordination, reflecting mastery over supernatural skills.[42] (2) The supernatural ability demonstrated by the Exalted One, such as transforming bowls and causing the myrobalan tree to grow.[43] (3) The ability of Mara's daughters to transform and tempt, which ultimately failed against the Buddha's resolve.[44] (4) The supernatural capacity attributed to Mara's daughters, reflecting their attempts to seduce the Buddha with illusions.[45] (5) Special abilities or insights that a Buddha may possess, often associated with their enlightenment and teaching.[46]
From: Vimalakirti Nirdesa Sutra
(1) The extraordinary abilities attributed to enlightened beings that allow for miraculous demonstrations and transformations.[47] (2) The divine abilities attributed to Buddhas and bodhisattvas allowing them to guide others, as seen when the gods spoke to Candracchattra.[48] (3) Extraordinary abilities exemplified by the bodhisattvas, allowing for miraculous actions and the accomplishment of the Buddha-work.[49] (4) The ability of the goddess to perform transformations, illustrating the concept of impermanence and illusion.[50] (5) Supernormal powers are extraordinary abilities demonstrated by Vimalakirti, showcasing his unique spiritual achievements and status.[51]
From: Lotus Sutra (Saddharma-Pundarika)
(1) Extraordinary abilities attributed to the Tathagatas, allowing them to manifest teachings and create conditions conducive to enlightenment.[52] (2) Extraordinary abilities that will be possessed by the beings in the future Buddha-field.[53] (3) The extraordinary abilities exhibited by the young princes which enable them to perform miracles and gain favor from their father.[54] (4) The extraordinary abilities employed by Tathagatas and Bodhisattvas, often illustrating their mastery over the natural world.[55] (5) Special abilities attributed to enlightened beings which allow them to perform extraordinary feats and teachings.[56]
From: Akshayamatinirdesha [english]
(1) Attaining the magical power of a Buddha with knowledge of the methods of magical power is considered expedient means, providing a way to attain the Buddha.[57] (2) These are part of the teachings, indicating the importance of understanding these abilities as part of the learning process and gaining wisdom.[58] (3) The abilities derived from the bodhisattva's practices and meditation, encompassing skills that allow one to produce results beyond ordinary capacities.[59] (4) Extraordinary abilities related to sense perception that individuals develop, which are mentioned in comparison to the bodhisattvas' abilities.[60] (5) A supernatural ability that allows a bodhisattva to perform miracles and transformations, enhancing their effectiveness in teaching living beings.[61]
From: Vimalakirti Nirdesa Sutra
(1) Extraordinary abilities that allow Vimalakirti to teach and influence others in spiritual matters.[62] (2) Extraordinary abilities that allow enlightenment and transformation of forms.[63] (3) Extraordinary abilities that allow Bodhisattvas to manipulate reality and demonstrate their profound insight into the nature of existence.[64]
From: Bodhisattvacharyavatara
(1) Abilities exhibited by arhats when passing away, showcasing their high-level realizations.[65]
From: Shurangama Sutra (with commentary) (English)
(1) The enhanced abilities that one may mistakenly believe they have attained, leading to arrogance and vulnerability to negative forces.[66]
From: Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva Purvapranidhana Sutra
(1) Extraordinary abilities that allow individuals to perform acts beyond normal human capabilities, often associated with enlightened beings.[67]
From: Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva (Sutra of the Great Vow)
(1) Extraordinary abilities possessed by the Buddha to perform extraordinary tasks and influence countless beings.[68]
From: Blue Annals (deb-ther sngon-po)
(1) The extraordinary abilities observed during the struggles with supernatural forces while practicing at rgya bo.[69] (2) Extraordinary abilities often attributed to advanced practitioners in Buddhism, such as healing or clairvoyance.[70] (3) Extraordinary abilities often attributed to enlightened beings, enabling them to perform miraculous acts or influence the physical world.[71] (4) Extrasensory abilities exhibited by the Dharmasvamin, enabling him to demonstrate his spiritual authority.[72] (5) Five abilities that were conferred upon sangs rgyas ras chen.[73]
From: Tattvasangraha [with commentary]
(1) Supernatural abilities attributed to certain substances that enable extraordinary effects or perceptions.[74]
From: The Six Yogas of Naropa
(1) A unique capability of the Bardoist to perform miraculous feats, such as passing through solid matter.[75]
From: Apadana commentary (Atthakatha)
(1) Refers to extraordinary abilities that are believed to be cultivated through mental discipline and insight, sometimes attributed to enlightened beings.[76] (2) Extraordinary abilities possessed by Sumedha, as he showcased when he planned to level the road for the Buddha's arrival.[77] (3) The ability possessed by the silent buddha to manipulate reality, as demonstrated by showing the prince another monastery.[78] (4) The extraordinary abilities that some practitioners of Buddhism attain, allowing them feats such as shape-shifting and influencing others.[79] (5) Abilities demonstrated by certain beings in Buddhist literature that enable extraordinary feats, often linked to spiritual attainment.[80]
Hindu concept of 'Supernatural power'
In Hinduism, supernatural power encompasses extraordinary abilities arising from spiritual practice, often linked to samyama. These powers exceed normal human limits, enabling individuals to perform feats beyond earthly capabilities through divine favor or rigorous spiritual discipline.
From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)
(1) Supernatural abilities associated with divinity that can alter reality and grant prolonged life.[81] (2) Abilities attributed to various characters, including the Vetala and the witches, which shape the events in the narrative and add a mystical element.[82] (3) The ability demonstrated by Yaugandharayana to alter appearances and use spells for various purposes, including breaking chains.[83] (4) Extraordinary abilities purported to be possessed by the Bodhisattva that allow him to perform miraculous deeds.[84] (5) A theme within the stories that describes the ability to perform supernatural feats, often through ascetic practices.[85]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Shastri)
(1) The supernatural ability to perform spells and illusions.[86] (2) The extraordinary abilities possessed by both Bali and the being at the door, indicating their higher status.[87] (3) The capabilities used by Ravana to transform and gain advantage in the battle, reflecting his Rakshasa nature.[88] (4) Denotes the divine abilities that the Gods and other spiritual entities possess.[89] (5) The special abilities possessed by enemies, in particular referring to Ravana's exceptional magical capabilities in warfare.[90]
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) Extraordinary abilities gained by the Rakshasi through her dedication to yoga, enabling her to fight off threats and ailments.[91] (2) The extraordinary abilities that could be used to take Rama away from the king, leading to his despair.[92] (3) The capabilities that may be produced when the mind is directed properly and subjugated.[93] (4) Extraordinary abilities that emerge from sustained practice and enlightenment, often linked to mastery over meditation and the mind.[94] (5) Abilities beyond the normal physical capabilities, often sought after by those overlooking the true path of spirituality.[95]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) Abilities attributed to divine beings like Indra and Agni, often relating to control over natural and cosmic phenomena.[96] (2) The extraordinary abilities, such as Anima and Laghima, attained by advanced practitioners of Yoga.[97] (3) Special abilities held by characters, particularly Narayana, enhancing the stakes of their struggle.[98] (4) The innate abilities of the Devi which cannot be fully understood by other beings.[99] (5) The ability attributed to Vishnu to assume various forms, which reflects on the themes of transformation and deception.[100]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Griffith)
(1) The text mentions a power associated with magic, indicating it is supernatural.[101] (2) This is the ability that the demon uses to wage the fearful fight, and it is a tool for the demon.[102] (3) Describes the special abilities of the arrow used by Rama to chase away the crow, signifying the influence of supernatural elements.[103] (4) The supernatural ability used by Maricha to change his shape into that of a deer.[104]
From: Vishnu Purana
(1) The mystical ability possessed by Citralekha that enables her to assist Usha in her quest to find her dream lover.[105] (2) The supernatural abilities wielded by the nymph Citralekha, allowing her to bring Aniruddha to Bana's palace.[106] (3) Mayadevi gives Pradyumna her magic and illusive powers, signifying the deep connection between them.[107]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) An assumed ability to perform extraordinary feats, questioned in the narrative regarding the nature of curses and actions.[108] (2) The extraordinary abilities held by the Rishis, allowing them to influence events in the divine realm.[109]
From: Nilamata Purana
(1) The unique ability granted to individuals in the text, allowing them to achieve extraordinary feats.[110] (2) The divine capability through which the sage Kasyapa and others executed extraordinary feats.[111]
From: Markandeya Purana
(1) The supernatural abilities attributed to beings exempt from gross elements, hinting at the nature of the illusion presented by Ashvatara.[112] (2) Powers or abilities that transcend the natural world, often sought by yogis.[113]
From: Gautami Mahatmya
(1) The supernatural ability attributed to Paulastya Tirtha that restores a lost kingdom.[114]
From: Brahma Sutras (Shankaracharya)
(1) Extraordinary abilities that allow gods and Yogins to manipulate their form and presence in the material world.[115] (2) Extraordinary abilities that allow individuals to assume new bodies while retaining their original form.[116] (3) Abilities that exceed natural human capabilities, often linked to the attainment of spiritual knowledge and insight.[117] (4) The mysterious ability attributed to the Lord, who influences all beings as if they are part of a machine.[118]
From: Chandogya Upanishad (Shankara Bhashya)
(1) Abilities attributed to Raikva, allowing him to understand the thoughts and feelings of others, as indicated by his address to Janashruti’s great-grandson.[119]
From: Mandukya Upanishad
(1) A force or influence that is beyond the natural and is responsible for the creation and control of creatures.[120]
From: Kautilya Arthashastra
(1) Alleged abilities that enable individuals to perform extraordinary feats, such as causing rapid speed or invisibility.[121] (2) An extraordinary ability or influence attributed to individuals, used by spies for espionage.[122]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) A unique capability surpassing natural laws, attributed to Agni, Vayu, Surya, and other gods.[123]
From: Shakti and Shakta
(1) Abilities that extend beyond normal human faculties, developed through magical practices and heightened mental capacities.[124]
From: Vakyapadiya of Bhartrihari
(1) The eight abilities attained through yoga that enhance one's capacity, noted in the context of achieving completeness.[125]
Jain concept of 'Supernatural power'
In Jainism, supernatural power signifies extraordinary abilities that divine beings possess, transcending normal limits. These powers, attributed to enlightened figures, enable control over existence and signify their divine nature, inspiring devotion and reverence among followers.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) The remarkable abilities attributed to the Lord, enabling control over various aspects of existence.[126] (2) The abilities that allow transformation and manipulation of forms, signifying supernatural strength.[127] (3) Extraordinary abilities that transcend natural limitations, attributed to divine or enlightened beings.[128] (4) Divine abilities attributed to the Master that evoke amazement and wonder among people.[129] (5) Extraordinary abilities that adorn the Lord, signifying his divine nature.[130]
From: Tattvartha Sutra (with commentary)
(1) A claimed ability of Acarya Pujyapada to visit divine realms, demonstrating his esteemed spiritual status.[131] (2) Powers that enable an ascetic to achieve higher states or forms, but which do not allow possession of all five types of bodies simultaneously.[132] (3) Supernatural powers (riddhi) are linked to the concept of attainment (labdhi), which results in the creation of the luminous body.[133] (4) Supernatural powers (riddhi) are abilities that are acquired through special austerities (tapa) and are essential for achieving the state of labdhipratyaya.[134]
From: Bhagavati-sutra (Viyaha-pannatti)
(1) Discussions about various powers, including vikurvana and samudghata, attributed to sub-human, human, and celestial beings.[135]
The concept of Supernatural power in local and regional sources
Supernatural power encompasses extraordinary abilities beyond human limits, often attributed to divine or mystical entities. It influences characters' fates, emphasizing mysticism, magic, and unique powers within various cultural narratives and stories, shaping their experiences and actions.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) An unseen force traditionally believed to control or influence human lives, often absent in modern tragic narratives.[136] (2) The impressive transformative abilities of film to present alternate realities and manipulate perceptions of size and movement.[137] (3) The seemingly supernatural influence that inspires Ravindra to create art, suggesting a deep connection with creativity.[138] (4) The unique ability of Tulasidas to articulate profound thoughts using simple language, making his poetry accessible to everyone.[139] (5) An extraordinary ability or force beyond the natural world, often attributed to mythological figures or deities.[140]
From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda
(1) Where there was any manifestation of what is ordinarily called supernatural power or wisdom, there a little current of Kundalini must have found its way into the Sushumna.[141] (2) Abilities that surpass natural or scientific understanding, are granted through the presence of love, according to the author's beliefs.[142] (3) The words properly articulated have a magical power, a power to create certain results, and this is the only meaning the Vedas have according to the text.[143] (4) Supernatural powers are abilities that Shri Ramakrishna considered hindrances to real spirituality, and the layman mind, as Swamiji noted, tends to be drawn to these powers.[144] (5) Supernatural power can be attained if one tries to follow Yoga, and the power can be a hindrance if the mind is not pure, so one should be cautious.[145]
From: Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints
(1) Extraordinary abilities or forces that transcend the natural world, often ascribed to divine or mystical beings.[146] (2) The eight extraordinary abilities that serve the god.[147]
From: History of Science in South Asia
(1) This phrase refers to the extraordinary properties or effects attributed to the Precious Pills, linked to the alchemical and astrological conditions considered important in their manufacturing, and the term is not usually found in medical descriptions.[148] (2) The eight divinities are referred to as vidyadharas, or holders of magical power, and each of them is responsible for accomplishing a given ritual action and medicine of the direction.[149]
From: Folklore of the Santal Parganas
(1) The special ability conferred upon the prince's wife by the snake, allowing her to harm others.[150]
From: Village Folk-tales of Ceylon (Sri Lanka), vol. 1-3
(1) The magical abilities associated with the characters, specifically the three Princesses who help the Prince.[151] (2) A supernatural aspect associated with the character Pushpadanta who listens to Siva's story unnoticed.[152] (3) The abilities exhibited by characters in the stories, allowing them to change their forms and manipulate situations.[153] (4) The extraordinary abilities possessed by Tamarind Tikka and other characters, influencing their fates.[154] (5) The abilities possessed by the Glass Princess that allow her to disguise herself and fly through the air.[155]
From: Buddhist records of the Western world (Xuanzang)
(1) Powers attributed to a Rishi who lived on a high precipice, signifying spiritual or mystical abilities.[156]