Significance of Holy One
The term "Holy One" encompasses various revered figures in Buddhism and Hinduism, representing divine qualities and spiritual enlightenment. In Buddhism, it often refers to Bodhisattvas and individuals embodying purity, virtue, and spiritual truths. In Hindu context, it can apply to deities like Krishna, Agni, and sages who guide followers towards wisdom and devotion. This title signifies respect and recognition of these figures' elevated spiritual status and their role in promoting goodness and moral guidance across traditions.
Synonyms: Sacred being, Divine one, Saint, God, Deity, Almighty, Creator, Spirit, Supreme being, Divine, Sacred, Saintly, Blessed, Hallowed, Consecrated, Revered
In Spanish: Samto; In Swedish: Helige; In French: Saint; In Dutch: Heilige; In Finnish: 笔测丑盲; In German: Heiliger; In Malay: Yang Maha Suci
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Holy One'
In Buddhism, the keyphrase "Holy One" encompasses enlightened beings, such as the Bodhisattva and Tathagata, who embody spiritual purity, wisdom, and compassion, serving as moral guides and exemplifying the ideal qualities of spiritual leadership.
From: The Great Chariot
(1) Those who represent the ideal qualities of spiritual friends and leaders, showing greatness in wisdom and compassion.[1] (2) The spiritual figures or enlightened beings to whom practitioners are encouraged to rely for guidance and support.[2] (3) Individuals who embody purity and virtue, often facing ridicule from those who favor evil.[3] (4) Individuals who embody spiritual truths and from whom one can learn to discern between right and wrong.[4] (5) Individuals considered sacred or virtuous, whose influence promotes goodness and holiness.[5]
From: The Fo-Sho-Hing-Tsan-King (A Life of Buddha)
(1) Refers to Bodhisattva, who was celebrated and revered as a divine being among gods and men.[6] (2) Transcendent beings or deities associated with virtue and moral guidance.[7]
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) A reference to the Tathagata, emphasizing their sacredness and enlightenment.[8] (2) A title used for the Tathagata, signifying his revered status as a fully and completely enlightened being.[9]
From: Akshayamatinirdesha [english]
(1) Individuals who are especially virtuous or elevated in spiritual status and are distinguished from others.[10]
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) A title referring to the highest stage of holiness, representing complete enlightenment and liberation from suffering.[11] (2) Refers to an arahant, a person who has completely extinguished all cankers and attained liberation.[12]
From: Vinaya (2): The Mahavagga
(1) An appellation for the Blessed One, emphasizing his enlightened and absolute nature.[13]
Hindu concept of 'Holy One'
In Hinduism, "Holy One" signifies a divine figure embodying sacredness, often used as a term of reverence for deities, sages, and spiritual leaders, emphasizing their purity, wisdom, and authority in conveying profound spiritual knowledge.
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) The blessed and respected figure in the text, likely referring to Krishna, who provides insights into the nature of existence.[14] (2) A term used to refer to Narayana, emphasizing his sacred and revered nature.[15] (3) A reference to a person of great religious significance or spiritual authority, often tasked with imparting wisdom.[16] (4) A title of respect addressed to Dhaumya, who provides guidance to Yudhishthira.[17] (5) A term emphasizing Cyavana's sanctity and revered status as a sage.[18]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Shastri)
(1) A title used by King Janaka to address the sages, highlighting their revered status.[19] (2) An honorific title given to Shabari by Rama, signifying her status as an ascetic.[20] (3) A term of honor addressed to Vishvamitra by Brahma, acknowledging his elevated spiritual status and austerity.[21]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Griffith)
(1) Holy one is a description for Suyajna, the son of Vashishtha, and he is part of the Brahman race.[22] (2) The term used to describe King Kushanabha when he was told that he would obtain a son who would be like him.[23] (3) Holy ones is what the shining chariots bore, indicating their divine status and association with the light.[24]
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) Refers to the representation of the Supreme Being, which is beyond all assignable property.[25] (2) A divine entity that represents supreme purity and existence beyond worldly conditions.[26]
From: Mandukya Upanishad (Madhva commentary)
(1) A term used to address divine beings who are revered and invoked for strength and longevity in life.[27]
From: Mundaka Upanishad (Madhva commentary)
(1) A term used to address divine beings, expressing reverence and a desire for their protection and support.[28]
From: Kena Upanishad with Shankara鈥檚 Commentary
(1) A term of respect used by the disciple when addressing the preceptor, indicating reverence for their knowledge and authority.[29]
From: Brahma Sutras (Ramanuja)
(1) A revered teacher or scriptural authority referenced in the context of spiritual knowledge about the Self.[30]
From: Parama Samhita (English translation)
(1) A term used to describe revered figures in the Bhagavata tradition as mentioned in early Jain classics.[31]
From: Harsha-charita
(1) The Most High, a divine being enthroned in his own sphere, reclining on a lotus couch.[32]
From: Satapatha-brahmana
(1) A term used to refer to Agni in context, emphasizing his divine and powerful nature.[33]
The concept of Holy One in local and regional sources
The keyphrase "Holy One" signifies individuals embodying divine essence, spiritually advanced beings, and the ultimate truth. They foster deep emotional connections and transcend material illusions, guiding others towards ultimate fulfillment and knowledge within the cosmos.
From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda
(1) This refers to a divine figure or deity revered and considered sacred, representing a spiritual or religious entity worthy of veneration and respect within a particular faith.[34] (2) A being beyond compare, limit, and change, as described in scriptures, to be sought for ultimate fulfillment and knowledge.[35] (3) Holy ones are individuals who are considered to be spiritually advanced, and a moment's association with them can help one go beyond the relative existence.[36] (4) This refers to the universe itself, implying that the cosmos embodies a divine essence and is the sole reality, eliminating the need for separate worship.[37] (5) The holy ones of God are the focus of love and pleasure for the author, and separating from them is described as a mortal torture, representing a deep emotional connection.[38]
From: Triveni Journal
(1) A rare individual who embodies truth and has transcended illusions of the material world.[39]
From: Buddhist records of the Western world (Xuanzang)
(1) Refers to a revered figure in the text whose traces lead to the construction of stupas or sangharamas.[40]