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Significance of Wrath

Wrath, as described in the Purana, encompasses a powerful and intense form of anger that has the potential to lead to destruction and violence. It signifies a fierce emotion that can prompt sinful actions, damaging one's virtue and fostering a harmful mindset. Wrath is exemplified in various contexts, such as the anger of Rama threatening worlds, the anticipated fury of the sons of Pandu, and the emotional responses of characters like Utanka and Kripa during battle. According to Dharmashastra, it similarly denotes a strong emotional reaction characterized by intense anger.1
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Synonyms: Anger, Fury, Rage, Ire, Indignation, Resentment, Annoyance, Irritation, Outrage

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Hindu concept of 'Wrath'

Hinduism Books

In Hinduism, Wrath encapsulates fierce anger that can threaten worlds, provoke destructive behavior, and influence actions in battles, highlighting its potential to lead to sinful actions and a loss of virtue.

Significance in Purana and Itihasa (epic history):
Purana Books

From: Mahabharata (English)

(1) Intense anger or rage, often leading to destructive behavior.[1] (2) The emotional response Utanka experiences due to his pride and initial refusal to accept the water.[2] (3) A strong emotional reaction of anger which influenced Kripa's actions during the battle.[3] (4) An intense feeling of anger that can lead to sinful actions and a loss of virtue, making it a harmful emotion to cultivate.[4] (5) Extreme anger or forceful emotion leading to violence in battle.[5]

From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Shastri)

(1) The fierce anger of Rama that is powerful enough to threaten the worlds with destruction.[6]

The Purana refers to Sanskrit literature preserving ancient India’s vast cultural history, including historical legends, religious ceremonies, various arts and sciences. The eighteen mahapuranas total over 400,000 shlokas (metrical couplets) and date to at least several centuries BCE.

Significance in Dharmashastra (religious law):
Dharmashastra Books

From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi

(1) A strong emotional response characterized by intense anger.[7]

Dharmashastra contains the instructions (shastra) regarding religious conduct of livelihood (dharma), ceremonies, jurisprudence (study of law) and more. It is categorized as smriti, an important and authoritative selection of books dealing with the Hindu lifestyle.