Significance of Foremost of all
The phrase "Foremost of all" signifies the highest rank or most distinguished status within various contexts. In Vaishnavism, it denotes Nimai's top position among students and Krishna's superior status, while also highlighting Arjuna's unmatched skills. In Purana, it describes the best weapons and the importance of characters like Pradyumna and Bhima in terms of power and skill. Similarly, in Mahayana Buddhism, it applies to the Buddha's supreme position and the significance of teachings like Mahaparinirvana. Historically, it acknowledges Hrishikeshi as a primary protector.
Synonyms: Most important, Primary, Chief, Principal, Leading, First, Top, Supreme
In Dutch: In de eerste plaats; In Finnish: Ennen kaikkea; In Spanish: Lo más importante de todo; In German: Vor allem
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Foremost of all'
The phrase "Foremost of all" in Buddhism signifies the Buddha's highest position, Mrigashiras as a leading figure on the Path, and the supreme status of Mahaparinirvana among Buddhist teachings.
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) A designation indicating the highest or supreme position among beings, applied to the Buddha in the text.[1] (2) Describes Mrigashiras as the leading individual among those who have discovered the Path.[2]
From: Mahayana Mahaparinirvana Sutra
(1) Describes the supreme status of Mahaparinirvana among all teachings and practices in Buddhism.[3]
Hindu concept of 'Foremost of all'
In Hinduism, "Foremost of all" signifies superiority and prominence, highlighting distinguished characters like Krishna and Arjuna among peers. It emphasizes their exceptional skills, importance in the narrative, and unmatched positions within the context of warfare and leadership.
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) An expression denoting Krishna's supreme status among deities and beings.[4] (2) Referring to something or someone that is the most prominent or important among all others.[5] (3) Indicates the importance or superiority of the request made regarding begotten sons.[6] (4) A distinction given to various characters and elements within the text, indicating their superiority in their respective categories.[7] (5) A description of someone being the best or most important among all others, particularly in terms of knowledge or skill.[8]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Shastri)
(1) A superlative descriptor indicating the highest rank or quality among peers, usually applied to weapons.[9] (2) A description of the arrow as the best and most effective weapon, signifying its importance in the mythological context of the text.[10]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) This phrase indicates that something is the most important or superior among a group.[11] (2) A phrase indicating that Nimai stands out as the top or most distinguished among the teacher's students.[12]
The concept of Foremost of all in local and regional sources
"Foremost of all" signifies the recognition of Hrishikeshi as the principal guardian and supporter of His devotees, emphasizing His paramount role and significance in their lives and spiritual journeys.
From: Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints
(1) An acknowledgment of Hrishikeshi as the primary protector and benefactor of His followers.[13]