Significance of Abandonment
Abandonment is a multifaceted concept with various interpretations across different texts and traditions. In Purana, it signifies actions such as a Brahmana leaving his wife and Rama abandoning Sita, highlighting relationship strains. Dharmashastra emphasizes neglecting family members who deserve care. Mahayana and Theravada Buddhism view abandonment as a path to liberation, focusing on letting go of desires and worldly attachments. Additionally, historic accounts like Chandvinod's renunciation of Maluva illustrate societal pressures leading to abandonment, showcasing its complex implications in personal and cultural contexts.
Synonyms: Desertion, Neglect, Rejection, Renunciation
In Dutch: Verlating; In Finnish: Luopuminen; In Spanish: Abandono
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Abandonment'
In Buddhism, Abandonment involves relinquishing attachment to material possessions, monks severing past ties for spiritual freedom, and letting go of desires to attain liberation and inner peace.
From: Maha Buddhavamsa—The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) The act of relinquishing one's attachment to worldly possessions as part of charity, distinct yet related to generosity.[1]
From: Vinaya Pitaka (3): Khandhaka
(1) The act of a monk leaving behind his previous attachments, which can contribute to a residence-non-impediment.[2]
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) The act of letting go of desires and attachments to achieve freedom.[3]
Hindu concept of 'Abandonment'
In Hinduism, Abandonment can be interpreted as Rama's departure from Sita despite her loyalty, neglecting family care as per scriptures, and a Brahmana's abandonment of his wife, resulting in her continued sinful behavior in a holy place.
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) The act of letting go of sinful behavior or attachments.[4] (2) The act of abandoning or not providing the treatment prescribed in scriptures to family members, particularly those who have not become outcasts.[5]
From: Padma Purana
(1) The act of Rama leaving Sita, despite her demonstrated loyalty and purity.[6]
From: Skanda Purana
(1) The act of the Brahmana leaving his wife after her ordeal, which leads her to continue her sinful actions in the holy shrine.[7]
The concept of Abandonment in local and regional sources
Abandonment highlights Chandvinod's renunciation of Maluva due to societal pressures, illustrating the stark and challenging realities faced within their community, emphasizing the emotional and social consequences of such actions.
From: Folk Tales of Gujarat (and Jhaverchand Meghani)
(1) The act of Chandvinod renouncing Maluva under societal pressure, which reveals the harsh realities of their environment.[8]