Significance of Four divisions
The keyphrase "Four divisions" encompasses multiple interpretations across different traditions. In Jainism, it classifies society and various sentient beings within samsara. The Purana outlines it in terms of army composition and strategies, emphasizing roles in warfare like infantry and cavalry, as well as compassion's parts. Dharmashastra identifies it as the four ancient castes vital for societal structure. In Theravada, it relates to segments of the king's army, signifying his power and authority. Thus, "Four divisions" illustrates both societal roles and military organization.
Synonyms: Four parts, Four subdivisions, Four components, Four sections, Four groups
In Dutch: Vier divisies; In Finnish: Nelj盲 divisioonaa; In Spanish: Cuatro divisiones; In German: Vier Divisionen; In Malay: Empat bahagian; In Swedish: Fyra divisioner; In French: Quatre divisions
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Four divisions'
The "Four divisions" in Buddhism may symbolize the segments of a king's army, representing power and status, illustrating the interconnectedness of authority and spiritual teachings within Buddhist narratives.
From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) The military and administrative components that accompanied the festal car.[1] (2) Refers to the various segments of the king's army, indicating his power and status in the story.[2]
From: Guide to Tipitaka
(1) The structure of the Dhammasangani, divided into four main sections covering classifications related to consciousness and corporeality.[3]
From: A Manual of Abhidhamma
(1) The distinct categorizations of how phenomena arise and interact within the framework of dependent arising.[4]
From: The Great Chariot
(1) The categorized segments or parts of a whole topic.[5] (2) The components of the path of preparation, which are heat, peak experience, patience, and highest Dharma.[6]
Hindu concept of 'Four divisions'
The "Four divisions" in Hinduism encompass diverse interpretations, including essential societal classes, components of military organization, and the structure of compassion, reflecting the religion's multifaceted nature and emphasis on stability and order.
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) The parts of compassion that are necessary for the religion of compassion to be upheld; analogous to the four legs required for stability.[7]
From: Harivamsha Purana
(1) The structure of Danurveda, which includes various types of knowledge related to warfare and the use of weapons.[8]
From: Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu
(1) The categorizations under which the 64 qualities are organized.[9]
Jain concept of 'Four divisions'
The Four divisions in Jainism can be interpreted as societal classifications established by the Lord and as the four categories of creatures in samsara: hell-inhabitants, animals, men, and gods.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) The four categories of creatures in samsara, which include hell-inhabitants, animals, men, and gods.[10] (2) A classification of society into different groups or roles as established by the Lord.[11]
The concept of Four divisions in local and regional sources
The keyphrase "Four divisions" refers to the historical categorization of an army into four distinct units: foot soldiers, cavalry, elephant corps, and chariots, highlighting the diverse military strategies employed in ancient warfare.
From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda
(1) The four parts of the army, including foot soldiers, cavalry, elephant corps, and chariots, used in ancient times.[12]