A Classical Dictionary of Hindu Mythology and Religion, Geography, History, and Literature c5.1512

c5.1512

RIBHU. ‘Clever, skilful.’ An epithet used for Indra, Agni, and the Ādityas. In the Purānic mythology, Ribhu is a “son of the supreme Brahmā, who, from his innate disposition, was of a holy character and acquainted with true wisdom.” His pupil was Nidāgha, a son of Pulastya, and he took especial interest in his instruction, returning to him after two intervals of a thousand years "to instruct him further in true wisdom." The Vishnu Purāna, "originally composed by the Rishi (Nārāyana), was communicated by Brahmā to Ribhu." He was one of the four Kumāras (q.v.).