Significance of Ancient Rishi
The term Ancient Rishi refers to wise sages from India's history who attained deep spiritual understanding across various traditions, including Buddhism, Ayurveda, and Hindu philosophy. These revered figures contributed significantly to spiritual knowledge, documented sacred texts, and developed practices for health and enlightenment. They are known for their contemplations on existence, dietary respect, and ascetic practices. Additionally, Ancient Rishis recognized the importance of herbal medicines and established rituals guiding human life throughout its stages, influencing spiritual and philosophical thought over centuries.
Synonyms: Sage, Spiritual teacher, Hermit, Mystic, Wiseman, Ascetic
In Dutch: Oude Rishi; In Finnish: Muinainen Rishi; In Spanish: Antiguo Rishi; In German: Antiker Rishi; In Swedish: Gamla Rishi; In Malay: Rishi Purba; In French: Ancien Rishi
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Ancient Rishi'
In Buddhism, Ancient Rishi denotes enlightened sages and spiritual practitioners from the past, revered for their non-violent lifestyles and dietary practices, as well as their sacred contributions within Brahman traditions.
From: Vinaya (2): The Mahavagga
(1) The revered authors and utterers of sacred verses among the Brahmans, known for their practices and abstentions, such as those from food at night.[1]
From: Lankavatara Sutra
(1) Spiritual practitioners from the past, referenced as models for conduct and dietary practices that are non-violent and respectful of life.[2]
From: The Fo-Sho-Hing-Tsan-King (A Life of Buddha)
(1) Sages from the past who have attained deep spiritual understanding and enlightenment.[3]
Hindu concept of 'Ancient Rishi'
Ancient Rishi in Hinduism signifies revered sages who contributed to Ayurvedic medicine, documented Vishnu's history, and are connected to Arjuna's identity, while also constructing sacred altars and singing hymns in reverence to deities.
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) Refers to Vyasa, acknowledged for his extensive spiritual power and influence in the context of the sacrifice.[4] (2) A sage or wise figure from ancient times, often associated with deep spiritual knowledge.[5] (3) Refers to revered sages, specifically Nara and Narayana, who are significant figures connected to Arjuna’s identity.[6]
From: Harivamsha Purana
(1) The wise sages of the past who sang the sacred hymn and revered the goddess.[7] (2) The wise spiritual teachers who construct lotus-shaped altars in sacrificial grounds, in recognition of its sacred origin.[8] (3) The revered sages who have sung the glories of Vishnu and documented his history in the Puranas.[9]
From: Sushruta Samhita, volume 1: Sutrasthana
(1) The revered sages of ancient India who contributed to the development of Ayurvedic medicine through their research and teachings.[10]
From: Brahma Sutras (Shankaracharya)
(1) A revered sage or seer from historical teachings, such as Apantaratamas, who was reborn following divine intervention.[11]
The concept of Ancient Rishi in local and regional sources
Ancient Rishi refers to the profound Indian sages known for their spiritual insights and philosophical teachings. Their contributions shaped Hinduism and societal structures, emphasizing knowledge, contemplation, and the relationship between existence and cosmic movements.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) Wise individuals from ancient India who practiced asceticism and sought knowledge through self-restraint and simplicity.[12] (2) Refers to ancient Indian sages known for their deep investigations into existential questions and truths about life.[13] (3) Scholars of ancient Indian philosophy who are credited with insights about atoms and consciousness according to the text.[14] (4) Wise sages of the past who formulated practices as aids to spiritual culture and health.[15] (5) Sages of ancient India recognized for their profound spiritual insights and philosophical teachings.[16]
From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda
(1) This refers to wise and enlightened individuals from ancient times, known for their spiritual knowledge and wisdom, whose characteristics are being discussed.[17]