Significance of Vasudeva
Synonyms: Krishna, Govinda, Madhava, Hari
In Dutch: Vasudeva; In German: Vasudeva; In Finnish: Vasudeva; In Spanish: Vasudeva; In Swedish: Vasudeva; In Malay: Vasudeva; In French: Vasudeva
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Vasudeva'
In Buddhism, Vasudeva is interpreted as the eldest son of Devagabbha, symbolizing strength and playing a crucial role in later conflicts, highlighting his importance within the narrative framework of Buddhist teachings.
From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) The eldest son of Devagabbha, representing strength and becoming a significant figure in the subsequent conflicts.[1]
Hindu concept of 'Vasudeva'
Vasudeva in Hinduism encompasses various interpretations, including Lord Krishna's identity, attributes of divine grace, parental protector, saintly figure, and his importance in cultural and spiritual contexts, reflecting the essence of divinity and devotion.
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) A key figure referred to in the text, traditionally understood as the father of Lord Krishna, emphasizing the connection to divine narratives.[2] (2) A character who was embraced by King Nanda.[3] (3) A central figure receiving the benefits of the river's path amidst the chaotic environment.[4] (4) The father of Lord Krishna, mentioned as the one from whom the Supreme Personality of Godhead will take birth.[5] (5) The father of Krishna and Balarama, who experiences a moment of bewilderment.[6]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) Designated as the son of Vasudeva, representing a key aspect of Krishna's identity and divine lineage.[7] (2) One of the four forms within the catur-vyuha associated with Lord Jagannatha.[8] (3) Another aspect of the divine related to Lord Krishna, central to the discussions.[9] (4) The father of Lord Krishna, indicating divine lineage in relation to divine appearances.[10] (5) A title of Krishna emphasizing His merciful nature towards all beings.[11]
From: Prem Sagar (English translation)
(1) Krishna's father, significant in the lineage and identity of Krishna.[12] (2) The father of Krishna, who is imprisoned by Kamsa due to perceived treachery.[13] (3) The father of Shri Krishna, who is captured by Salub as part of the demon's deceptive tactics.[14] (4) The god of all gods, regarded as worthy of first adoration during the rituals of the sacrifice.[15] (5) Kunti's brother and father of Krishna; his well-being is of great concern to her.[16]
From: Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu
(1) An aspect or name of Lord Krishna, who is revered as a divine entity in Vaishnavism.[17] (2) A name for Lord Krishna or God, representing the divine being that devotees serve in the context of Hindu worship.[18] (3) A name representing the supreme being within the Pancaratra tradition.[19] (4) The divine figure and father of Krishna, symbolizing the ultimate source of all creation.[20]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) another form of Bhagavan mentioned as worshiped[21] (2) The father of Lord Krishna, in whose house the Supreme Lord is destined to appear.[22] (3) Refers to a saintly person who is under the Lord's protection.[23]
From: Sri Krishna-Chaitanya
(1) A term referring to the pure cognitive essence of God that manifests in pastimes and engages with devotees.[24] (2) The first expression of the Absolute perceived as a Male Person who is self-revealed and beyond material limitations.[25]
From: Srila Gurudeva (The Supreme Treasure)
(1) One of the four forms of Lord Vishnu responsible for providing movement and liberation to living entities.[26]
From: Bhajana-Rahasya
(1) Another name for Bhagavan, particularly in the context of bhakti-yoga.[27]
From: Tiruvaymoli (Thiruvaimozhi): English translation
(1) Vasudeva is referred to as the embodiment of everything for Nammalvar, symbolizing ultimate reliance and devotion.[28]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) A reference to Krishna, who is portrayed as a guide and source of peace for Duryodhana and the Kauravas.[29] (2) The father of Krishna, who is equally sorrowful as Vibhatsu at the loss of heroes and kinsmen.[30] (3) The Lord of the universe, the one god who is the subject of worship, known for his attributes of being infinite, immutable, and the ultimate refuge for all creatures.[31] (4) The character who counsels and informs Arjuna about the means through which their enemies were slain.[32] (5) Refers to Krishna, a key figure who provides guidance and assistance to the Pandavas during the conflict.[33]
From: Garuda Purana
(1) A name for Lord Krishna, associated with divine grace and the power to endow strength.[34] (2) The chief deity regarded as the god of gods, significant in the context of temple consecration.[35] (3) A form of the deity associated with divine consciousness and awareness.[36] (4) The seventh figure listed in the context of the stone images.[37] (5) A name for Vishnu, emphasizing his role as the lord of the universe and caretaker of all beings.[38]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) The father of Shri Krishna, depicted as a high-minded individual who values truth and morality.[39] (2) The part incarnation of Kashyapa who represents God and is an essential figure in Hindu mythology.[40] (3) Part incarnate of Narayana, referred to as Shri Krishna, whose son was stolen.[41] (4) Described as the Guru of all Lokas, representing the divine essence and authority within the narrative.[42] (5) Another name for Lord Vishnu, emphasizing his role as the protector and preserver in the universe.[43]
From: Harivamsha Purana
(1) Another name for Krishna, the master of weapons who counteracts the fiery threats posed by Vana's forces.[44] (2) Another name for Krishna, referencing his role in preserving the universe and supporting his devotees.[45] (3) A figure who has come to the gathering, associated with virtuous intentions and the interests of a maiden.[46] (4) A character who had heard about his son born to Rohini and engaged Nanda in taking care of the child.[47] (5) The firstborn son of Shura, known as Anakadunduvi, who holds immense beauty and significance in the narrative.[48]
From: Vishnu Purana
(1) The true divine identity of Krishna, whom Paundraka falsely claims to be.[49] (2) The divine being around whom the doctrines in the Bhagavata center, signifying the universality of faith.[50] (3) A name for Vishnu, representing divine wisdom and the essence of the universe, whom Dhruva is advised to worship.[51] (4) A name used for the supreme god, representing the unity of all beings and the divine essence underlying creation.[52] (5) An essential eternal concept presented as the ultimate truth, characterized by unchanging, universal form, serving as a touchstone of reality.[53]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Shastri)
(1) A glorious figure mentioned as the ultimate support of the world, manifesting in the form of Sage Kapila.[54]
From: Markandeya Purana
(1) A name for Vishnu, depicted as the support of everything and the cause of all causes.[55]
From: Nilamata Purana
(1) The son of Vasudeva who engaged in combat with the king of Kas'mira and is characterized as wise.[56]
From: Bhagavad-gita-rahasya (or Karma-yoga Shastra)
(1) Another name for Krishna, often acknowledged as the supreme deity in the context of devotion and action.[57]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Griffith)
(1) Vasudeva was seen standing there in Kapil’s form he loved to wear, and the princes saw him.[58]
From: Brahma Sutras (Ramanuja)
(1) A name for Krishna or the Supreme God in the context of Vedic philosophy, recognized as the highest Brahman.[59] (2) Another name for the highest Brahman, signifying reverence and regarded as the ultimate figure of worship.[60] (3) Vasudeva is synonymous with Brahman and represents the spiritual essence that encompasses all existence, both intelligent and non-intelligent.[61]
From: Brahma Sutras (Shankaracharya)
(1) Vasudeva is understood to be a Lord or a powerful being that is distinguished by qualities such as knowledge and ruling capacity and is free from faults and imperfections.[62] (2) The highest Self in the Bhagavata philosophy, symbolizing the ultimate causal essence of reality.[63]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad Bhashya Vartika
(1) A representation of the divine in Hinduism, often associated with Krishna, symbolizing the all-encompassing reality.[64]
From: Thirty minor Upanishads
(1) The ultimate source that resides within and supports all beings.[65]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad
(1) The deity in Pancharatra tradition considered both the ultimate cause of the universe and as a figure central to worship.[66]
From: Mandukya Upanishad (Madhva commentary)
(1) One of the manifestations of Brahman, often discussed in relation to other forms like Vishnu.[67]
From: Parama Samhita (English translation)
(1) A name signifying the Supreme Being who pervades all creation, embodying peace and protection.[68]
From: Shat-cakra-nirupana (the six bodily centres)
(1) Refers to a divine form representing the essence of the Supreme Being, associated with the concept of transcendental reality.[69]
From: The Sarva-Darsana-Samgraha
(1) Revered as the Supreme Spirit and characterized by auspicious attributes, Vasudeva represents the divine presence in multiple manifestations.[70]
Jain concept of 'Vasudeva'
In Jainism, Vasudeva represents a powerful deity, central to mythological narratives, identified as a key divine figure linked to royal lineage, divine kingship, and spiritual teachings, often depicted in various adventures and romantic pursuits.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) Another name for Shauri, indicating his identity when he is wrongfully accused.[71] (2) The father of Krishna, characterized as the sole hero of the universe and involved in protecting his sons from Kamsa.[72] (3) The tenth son of Andhakavrishni, known for his exceeding beauty, charm, and good strength.[73] (4) A character who is exhausted after a pleasurable experience and is later carried off by Manasavega.[74] (5) A prominent character referred to as Lord and significant in the narrative involving royal lineage.[75]
From: Bhagavati-sutra (Viyaha-pannatti)
(1) A group of nine divine figures in the tradition, representing important attributes and teachings.[76] (2) Class of divine beings connected with the spiritual aspects of the inhabitants in Jambu-dvipa.[77]
From: Uttaradhyayana Sutra
(1) A deity symbolizing great power and strength, comparable to a very learned monk.[78]
The concept of Vasudeva in local and regional sources
Vasudeva represents a divine connection to destiny and sacrifice in Devavrata's journey, while also serving as the ferryman in Siddhartha's path, symbolizing wisdom and the profound meanings of the river.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) The ferryman who assists Siddhartha in his journey and symbolizes wisdom and the embodiment of the river’s deeper secrets.[79] (2) A reference to the divine, connecting Devavrata's journey to larger spiritual themes of destiny and sacrifice.[80]