Significance of Abhimana
Abhimana, in the context of Vaishnavism, Purana, and Vedanta, refers to false identifications or ego that obstruct true spiritual realization. Vaishnavism highlights it as a barrier to genuine understanding, while the Purana emphasizes how identification with external objects leads to attachment and suffering. Vedanta elaborates that Abhimana involves a false sense of self tied to the body and its attributes, resulting in the misperception of ownership and existence separate from the Divine, fostering egoism and personal attachments.
Synonyms: Pride, Self-respect, Dignity, Honor, Self-esteem, Confidence, Arrogance
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Abhimana'
Abhimana in Hinduism signifies false ego and attachments that hinder spiritual growth. It encompasses misidentification with the body and external experiences, resulting in suffering and a distorted sense of self, separate from the Divine.
From: Mandukya Upanishad (Madhva commentary)
(1) False identification with the body and its attributes that leads the Jiva to perceive ownership and existence as separate from the Divine.[1]
From: Thirty minor Upanishads
(1) The sense of 'I' or egoism tied to the identity of the body and personal attachments.[2]
From: Vivekachudamani
(1) Egoism or the sense of personal identity that the Jnani transcends.[3]
From: Laghu-yoga-vasistha
(1) The identification of self with external objects or experiences, contributing to attachment and suffering.[4]
From: Srila Gurudeva (The Supreme Treasure)
(1) False identifications or ego that block genuine spiritual realization.[5]