Significance of Mahabharata
In Dutch: Mahabharata; In Finnish: Mahabharata; In Spanish: Mahabharata; In Swedish: Mahabharata; In Malay: Mahabharata; In French: Mahabharata; In German: Das Mahabharata
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Mahabharata'
In Buddhism, the Mahabharata is viewed as a significant epic, similar to the Vedas, offering insights into authorship, historical context of Ahicchatra, and serving as an illustrative reference within the Karandyavyuha Sutra.
From: Tattvasangraha [with commentary]
(1) An ancient Indian epic that is referenced in the dialogue as comparable to the Vedas in terms of its literary and spiritual significance.[1] (2) An ancient Indian epic that may be compared or referenced in discussions about reason and authorship.[2]
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) Mahabharata is an ancient Indian epic that provides historical context to the city of Ahicchatra and its place in the kingdom of Drupada.[3]
Hindu concept of 'Mahabharata'
The Mahabharata is a foundational Hindu epic composed by Vyasa, addressing dharma, moral dilemmas, and duty across various life stages and castes, while intertwining spiritual teachings and historical narratives, including iconic tales like the Bhagavad Gita.
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) An ancient text that provides verses similar to those concerning the association with outcasts.[4] (2) An ancient Indian epic that references the importance of performing the five sacrifices and living upon remnants.[5] (3) An ancient Indian epic that contains narratives and teachings regarding the creation, virtues, and the application of Vedic knowledge.[6] (4) An ancient Indian epic that contains teachings on Dharma, spirituality, and morality.[7] (5) An ancient Indian epic that provides insights into the assigned functions and duties of created beings and how they continue through successive births.[8]
From: Gautama Dharmasutra
(1) An ancient Indian epic which may refer to texts related to Gautama's teachings and legal concepts.[9]
From: Asvalayana-grihya-sutra
(1) An ancient Indian epic that is a key text in Hindu philosophy, spirituality, and ethics.[10]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) An ancient Indian text that illustrates the concept of relinquishing true value in favor of false pursuits, such as giving up the worship of Vishnu.[11] (2) A major ancient Indian epic that elaborates on the virtues and glory of Lord Vishnu's incarnations.[12] (3) An ancient text that narrates the incident of holy river confluences and significant places.[13] (4) An ancient Indian epic that is a significant text in Hindu culture, known for its narrative of the Kurukshetra War.[14] (5) An ancient Indian epic that provides context and commentary on the assembly of Brahma and associated characters.[15]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) An ancient Indian epic where the described events of warfare and the interactions of its pivotal characters unfold.[16] (2) The epic narrative in which the context of Krishna's roles and interactions with the Pandavas takes place.[17] (3) An ancient Indian epic that contains accounts and descriptions of the divine's pastimes and rituals.[18] (4) An ancient Indian epic that contains stories and teachings, including aspects concerning the Pandavas and Kauravas.[19] (5) An ancient scripture referenced regarding the event when Parikshit was protected and brought back to life.[20]
From: Tiruvaymoli (Thiruvaimozhi): English translation
(1) An epic that provides a parallel story regarding glimpses of the Heaven, underscoring the theme of divine vision and experience.[21] (2) An ancient Indian epic that details a great war and moral conundrums, serving as a backdrop for ethical discussions.[22] (3) The epic battle that is referenced, where the Lord brings about a confrontation to quell cruel armies.[23] (4) An epic text in which Sage Vyasa intended to narrate the story of Lord Narayana but included various unrelated episodes.[24]
From: Sri Krishna-Chaitanya
(1) An ancient Indian epic that deals with the actions and events in the life of Krishna, particularly during His time as King of Dwaraka.[25] (2) An ancient Indian epic encompassing a range of philosophical and devotional teachings as well as the historical narrative of the Kurukshetra war.[26]
From: Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu
(1) A major Hindu epic that recounts the history and teachings through the stories of noble figures, including significant events and characters in ancient India.[27] (2) An ancient Indian epic referenced in the text, illustrating significant moral and philosophical themes.[28]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) An ancient Indian epic known for its significance and glory among the Puranas.[29]
From: Srila Gurudeva (The Supreme Treasure)
(1) Epic text referred to in the discussion, noted for mentioning ritviks.[30]
From: Chaitanya Mangala
(1) A significant ancient Indian epic written by Vyasa, who stayed at Naimisharanya while compiling scriptures.[31]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) The grand epic narration that encompasses the history and virtues of king Santanu of the Bharata race.[32] (2) An ancient Indian epic that contains the Bharata text, which encompasses various religious, moral, and philosophical teachings.[33] (3) A major ancient Indian epic that encompasses a wide range of teachings, including those of Narayana.[34] (4) The epic narrative encompassing the lives, struggles, and teachings of the characters, rich in moral and spiritual lessons.[35] (5) An ancient Indian epic that encompasses a vast narrative filled with mythology, philosophy, and moral dilemmas.[36]
From: Vishnu Purana
(1) An ancient Indian epic that is referenced as a basis for dating the Vishnu Purana, implying that the latter was compiled afterward.[37] (2) An epic text containing the story and significances of Vasudeva, Draupadi, and various other characters, which provides context for inquiries in the Markandeya Purana.[38] (3) An epic from which legends, such as that of the sage Chyavana, are taken and retold in the Bhavishya Purana.[39] (4) An ancient Indian epic that contains narratives related to the Matsya Purana, suggesting that the Purana predates it as an authoritative source.[40] (5) An ancient Indian epic that contains the story of the Shuktimati river flowing by the capital of Chedi.[41]
From: Bhagavad-gita-rahasya (or Karma-yoga Shastra)
(1) An ancient Indian epic that discusses various philosophical and moral dilemmas, including the nature of karma, dharma, and the relationship between the physical and spiritual worlds.[42] (2) An extensive epic that includes the Bhagavadgita, consisting of one hundred thousand stanzas, and serves as a central text in Hindu philosophy and mythology.[43] (3) An extensive epic that contains references to the Brahma-Sutras and the Bhagavadgita, mentioned as being previously available during the time of Badarayanacarya.[44] (4) A vast epic that incorporates the Bhagavad Gita and addresses various themes of morality and duty.[45] (5) An ancient Indian epic that serves as a narrative backdrop for many philosophical discussions, including those found in the Gita.[46]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) An epic text characterized by the five features shared by the Puranas, recognized as the fifth Veda and an important historical narrative.[47] (2) An ancient Indian epic where the narrative of Muni Astika and the themes of devotion and righteousness are discussed.[48] (3) The epic recited by Vaishampayana to the king to cheer him up and provide consolation.[49] (4) An epic composed by Veda Vyasa, created from the Puranas, regarded as having no rival.[50]
From: Brihaddharma Purana (abridged)
(1) An epic poem that Vyasa is destined to compose, receiving guidance from Valmiki.[51] (2) An epic text that Vyasa is tasked with composing, based on the teachings of the Vedas and the Ramayana.[52] (3) Another major epic that Valmiki was asked to compose after completing the Ramayana, which details the Kurukshetra war and the fates of the Kaurava and Pandava princes.[53]
From: Markandeya Purana
(1) The sacred text that is replete with splendid collections of various Shastras, characterized by accuracy regarding different classes, embellished with beautiful words, and containing complete knowledge of assertions and established conclusions.[54] (2) An epic narrative that Jaimini sought deeper understanding of, as it presented various complexities and doubts.[55]
From: Sanatsujatiya (English translation)
(1) The Mahabharata is an ancient Indian epic that contains numerous episodes, including the Sanatsujatiya, which contribute to its vast narrative.[56]
From: Anugita (English translation)
(1) The epic narrative that encompasses both the Anugita and the Bhagavadgita, serving as the larger framework for these teachings.[57]
From: Bhagavadgita
(1) An ancient Indian epic containing the story of the Kauravas and Pandavas, and the philosophical discourse known as the Bhagavadgita.[58]
From: Harivamsha Purana
(1) An ancient epic that provides a detailed narrative of the Kurus and is a primary source of Hindu philosophy and stories.[59]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Shastri)
(1) An ancient Indian epic that contains an episode of the Ramayana and highlights its cultural links.[60]
From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)
(1) A major Sanskrit epic that is among the stories connected to the Ocean of Story, reflecting its literary significance.[61] (2) An ancient Indian epic from which the story of Nala and Damayanti is derived, referenced for its significance and depth.[62] (3) An ancient Indian epic that includes a classical example of the gandharva form of marriage through the story of King Dushyanta and Princess Shakuntala.[63] (4) An epic narrative of ancient Indian literature, featuring a rich array of tales, philosophies, and moral lessons.[64] (5) An ancient Indian epic that contains the tale of Sunda and Upasunda, indicating the sources of their story.[65]
From: Naishadha-charita of Shriharsha
(1) An epic narrative that integrates these themes and characters, often referred to in the context of divine interactivity and moral tales.[66] (2) An epic text in which the story of Nala and Damayanti is briefly related in less than two hundred couplets, contrasting with the more detailed portrayal in Naishadhacarita.[67] (3) An ancient Indian epic that Candupandita studied under the guidance of his teacher Munideva.[68]
From: Vastu-shastra (Introduction to Indian architecture)
(1) An ancient epic that contains vivid descriptions of Yantras, including various weapons and their mechanics.[69] (2) An epic text that contains a dedicated section, Sabha-parva, discussing various types of Sabhas and their uses as assembly halls or council chambers.[70] (3) An ancient Indian epic containing references to early urban management and civic structures, contributing to the knowledge of town-planning.[71] (4) An ancient Indian epic that contains references to Gopuras as part of its narrative regarding palatial and temple architecture.[72] (5) An ancient epic where Vishvakarma and Maya are mentioned as master-masons of the gods and Danavas.[73]
From: Parama Samhita (English translation)
(1) An ancient Indian epic that includes claims regarding the authority of the Pancaratra compared to the Veda.[74] (2) An ancient Indian epic that includes sections like the Narayaniya, which discusses the origins and teachings of the Pancaratra.[75] (3) An ancient Indian epic that includes significant references to traditions associated with the Satvatas and their movements.[76] (4) An ancient Indian epic that serves as a significant literary source for the Tamil country and has been incorporated into Tamil literature.[77] (5) An ancient Indian epic that includes the Narayaniya, which may have influenced the descriptions of Vishnu in Tamil poetry.[78]
From: Brihadaranyaka Upanishad
(1) An epic narrative that includes the Bhagavad-Gita and contains moral and philosophical teachings.[79]
From: Brahma Sutras (Shankara Bhashya)
(1) An ancient Indian epic that contains myths, history, and philosophical teachings, including the Bhagavad Gita.[80]
From: Brahma Sutras (Ramanuja)
(1) A historical epic mentioned in the text which offers support to the teachings of the Veda, presenting doctrines and philosophies relevant to understanding the Vedic teachings.[81]
From: Satapatha-brahmana
(1) An ancient Indian epic that details the legendary struggle for power and includes accounts of various sacrificial rites.[82]
From: The Sarva-Darsana-Samgraha
(1) An ancient Indian epic that Madhva refers to in establishing key philosophical points, particularly regarding Vishnu.[83]
From: History of Indian Medicine (and Ayurveda)
(1) An epic tale that contains references to the roles and duties of surgeons in ancient warfare, as well as the moral implications of medical practices.[84]
From: Rasa Jala Nidhi, vol 5: Treatment of various afflictions
(1) An ancient Indian epic that includes references to Sushruta, indicating its significance in the context of Indian medicine.[85]
From: Natyashastra (English)
(1) One of the great Indian epics which, like the Puranas, is noted for its lack of references to Bharata Muni as the author of the Natyashastra.[86]
Jain concept of 'Mahabharata'
In Jainism, the Mahabharata is interpreted as reflecting the epic tradition and cultural context, emphasizing ethical dilemmas and the moral stakes surrounding its characters, rather than a direct narrative within Jain texts.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) Not directly mentioned in the text but implies the epic tradition and cultural background surrounding the characters and events.[87]
The concept of Mahabharata in local and regional sources
The Mahabharata is an ancient Indian epic that explores complex narratives about duty, ethics, and sacrifice, particularly through the lens of the Kurukshetra War, showcasing philosophical dilemmas and moral lessons within its rich storytelling tradition.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) The Mahabharata is mentioned as a source that declares that the gentle is more powerful and can overcome anger, evil, the miser, and the liar, through different approaches, and also mentions the use of force.[88] (2) The Mahabharata is a celebrated epic in which the Gita is embedded, and which provides the setting for the Gita's philosophical and narrative elements.[89] (3) An ancient Indian epic, where a verse-by-verse translation in English has significantly contributed to the understanding of Indian poetry.[90] (4) An ancient Indian epic that had a profound impact on Edwin Arnold, inspiring much of his literary work.[91] (5) Another major ancient Indian epic that encapsulates the complexities of dharma, ethics, and war.[92]
From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda
(1) This is a story that involves a young Yogi who prided himself on his psychic powers, and the text references it to illustrate a point.[93] (2) The book known as the Gita forms a part of this, according to the summary of the discourse as it was entered in the Math diary.[94] (3) The Mahabharata is mentioned as a great Sanskrit epic where the story of Yudhishthira is told, highlighting the wonder of humanity's belief in deathlessness.[95] (4) Many believe that the Gita was added to this epic at a later time, but this is not the correct understanding of its placement.[96] (5) This is an epic to which some people thought the Gita was added later, but the speaker claims that the teachings are in every part.[97]
From: History of Science in South Asia
(1) This is an epic where sidhu is associated with foreign people of loose morals, and the drink is used to depict certain groups.[98] (2) The Mahabharata is a text that contains lists of the seven bodily constituents, and it is mentioned alongside the Patanjalayogashastra and various Puranas.[99] (3) Mahabharata is a text that refers to Garga as the samvatsara, and also refers to a work of Garga in sixty-four divisions.[100] (4) The text includes the Mahabharata, a significant epic, with details about its translators and publications, indicating its importance in the text.[101] (5) This is a text where one of the best-known astral myths in classical India is told, which concerns the birth of Planet Mercury.[102]
From: Sanskrit Words In Southeast Asian Languages
(1) Mahabharata refers to the epic Indian narrative, a significant work of literature, and a source of cultural and religious significance.[103]
From: Village Folk-tales of Ceylon (Sri Lanka), vol. 1-3
(1) An ancient Indian epic that contains a story of an unmarried princess setting her child afloat in a basket.[104]