Significance of Absorption
Absorption is a multifaceted concept that varies across disciplines. In Jainism, it denotes the process through which living beings absorb karma, indicating a profound interaction. In Purana, it is synonymous with samadhi, the pinnacle of meditation where the practitioner merges with their focus. Ayurveda highlights this as the assimilation of nutrients from food, essential for nourishment. Both Mahayana and Theravada Buddhism view Absorption as a meditative state fostering deep concentration and insights. Additionally, in science, it refers to how substances, including drugs, enter biological systems.
Synonyms: Assimilation, Digestion, Intake, Consumption, Engagement
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Absorption'
In Buddhism, Absorption signifies a deep concentration during meditation, allowing practitioners to fully engage with their subject, fostering insights and tranquility, and often involving states like jhana, particularly through loving-kindness practices.
From: Visuddhimagga (the pah of purification)
(1) A state of mental concentration achieved during meditation where the mind becomes fully immersed in the meditation object, leading to deeper insights and peace.[1] (2) Meditative states that are attained through the focused practice of loving-kindness and can lead to higher stages of meditation.[2] (3) A state of deep concentration that allows one to fully focus on the meditation subject.[3] (4) A state of deep concentration or jhana achieved during meditation on the body, often characterized by a profound sense of focus and stillness.[4]
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) A meditative state in which practitioners cultivate focus and concentration, leading to deeper insights.[5]
Hindu concept of 'Absorption'
In Hinduism, Absorption signifies both the assimilation of nutrients necessary for nourishment and samadhi, the profound meditative state where the practitioner merges completely with their focus, achieving spiritual unity.
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) Known as samadhi; the ultimate stage of meditation where the practitioner fully merges with the object of contemplation.[6]
From: Sushruta Samhita, volume 1: Sutrasthana
(1) The process by which nutrients are assimilated from food into the body, crucial for effective nourishment.[7]
Jain concept of 'Absorption'
In Jainism, Absorption signifies a dual process where living beings not only acquire karma but also absorb it into themselves, reflecting a profound connection and engagement with their spiritual and karmic experiences.
From: Bhagavati-sutra (Viyaha-pannatti)
(1) A process alongside acquisition, where living beings may absorb karma into their being, indicating a deeper level of interaction.[8]
The concept of Absorption in scientific sources
Absorption is the process by which substances, such as mercuric salts, penetrate biological systems, especially following ingestion, enabling these compounds to affect physiological functions within the organism.
From: International Ayurvedic Medical Journal
(1) The process through which substances like mercuric salts enter biological systems, particularly after ingestion.[9]
From: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
(1) The process by which the drug enters the bloodstream from the site of administration after being released from its formulation.[10]