Significance of Action
Synonyms: Deed, Act, Maneuver, Performance, Operation, Undertaking, Initiative, Response, Execution, Activity, Task
In French: Action; In Dutch: Actie; In Finnish: Toiminta; In Spanish: Acción; In German: Aktion; In Swedish: Handling; In Malay: Tindakan; In Polish: Działanie; In Italian: Azione; In Portugese: Ação
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Action'
In Buddhism, action (karma) encompasses deeds, processes, and behaviors, lacking inherent nature, that shape future experiences. These actions, influenced by volition and afflictions, determine rebirth and retribution, with effects experienced individually.
From: Tattvasangraha [with commentary]
(1) Action is listed as one of the adjuncts on which expressions and notions are based, with ‘moves’ and ‘wanders’ serving as examples in the provided text.[1] (2) The effects that potent causes produce are only those that are amenable to their action, and not what is not so amenable, meaning causes have limitations.[2] (3) Action is mentioned alongside substance and quality, indicating that the text explores the implications of a unified relationship between substance, quality, and 'action', arguing that it would make categorization impossible.[3] (4) The text indicates agreements are not possible regarding specific individuality because this is not possible in connection with it, making it useless.[4] (5) These are performances that individuals engage in, particularly when motivated by the understanding that a unified perspective leads to satisfaction and positivity.[5]
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) The text mentions that the white elephant is not an ordinary animal, which [the existence of which is due] to retribution for actions (samskaravipaka).[6] (2) Once accumulated, it lasts for hundreds of koti of kalpas without being lost, changed, or deteriorating. It produces a fruit of retribution without loss of time and follows its creator relentlessly.[7] (3) The teacher spoke of the retribution for actions, or karmavipaka, indicating that the consequences of deeds determine future rebirths, and the actions of the king and queen will lead to different rebirths.[8] (4) According to a conversation between Shariputra and Subhuti, without conditions, this is not born.[9] (5) It is a personal and non-communicable force. The effects of both good and bad ones are experienced by the one who performed them, not anyone else, determining future existences.[10]
From: Abhidharmakośa
(1) "Action" is connected to the roots of existence, which are the anushayas, including attachment, anger, pride, ignorance, false views, and doubt, which are considered the origins of action.[11]
From: Mahayana Mahaparinirvana Sutra
(1) The provided text includes 'action' as a concept about which individuals may have doubts, implying the need to understand its significance within the Buddha's teachings.[12]
From: Bodhisattvacharyavatara
(1) Navigating the initial stages involves understanding the specific actions one should undertake and those that should be avoided, according to the text.[13]
From: The Great Chariot
(1) The actions of spiritual friends are pure and faultless, and they are more noble than anyone's, benefiting sentient beings with many virtues of body, speech, and mind.[14] (2) It is free from these, it is not accretion of karma.[15] (3) Action is characterized by a state that neither accepts nor rejects, highlighting a neutral or unbiased approach to engagement, mirroring the nature of dreams in sleep.[16] (4) These can be categorized as black or white, and they determine the circumstances of sentient beings. [17] (5) This is one of the three fundamental elements, alongside view and meditation, characterized in the provided context of study and exploration.[18]
From: Bodhinyana
(1) These are behaviors that contribute to unhappiness. Recognizing the impact of actions is key to finding liberation.[19]
From: Apadana commentary (Atthakatha)
(1) It is also referred to as sankhara, and all are impermanent. Due to ignorance these arise, and due to cessation of ignorance, there is cessation of these.[20]
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) Action is the kamma, and the result of action (kamma) is described as vipaka, which can be either good or bad depending on the nature of the action.[21]
Hindu concept of 'Action'
In Hinduism, "action" encompasses diverse concepts: grammatical roles, purpose, physical deeds, mental states like goodwill, and the eternal creative force. It binds the world, is subject to individual will, and precedes outcomes, influencing future embodiments and our understanding of substance.
From: Vakyapadiya of Bhartrihari
(1) It is also referred to as 'bhava', which gains importance when the word representing the object of an action makes the verb unnecessary, thus challenging traditional grammatical hierarchies.[22] (2) It is something that is applied separately to the things expressed by a dvandva compound, just as the act of feeding is applied to each part individually.[23] (3) It is something that is not directly perceptible but is inferred because it consists of parts arranged in a specific order; the entirety is not directly perceptible.[24] (4) One type of characteristics that may co-exist with the universal aspect and can be the basis for deriving a particular expression.[25] (5) Action, exemplified by cooking, encompasses the collective activities of different accessories working together to achieve a specific result or outcome.[26]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad Bhashya Vartika
(1) A deed or activity that results from a feeling of wanting, which in turn stems from a fundamental lack of understanding.[27] (2) Action, unlike knowledge, is not capable of destroying ignorance and therefore is not the means to attain moksha, which is a central idea in the verse.[28] (3) The text indicates that knowledge of Brahman can destroy "action" and its causes, implying that liberation from the cycle of karma is achieved through understanding the true nature of reality.[29] (4) A deed or activity that can be directed through a command, utilizing its inherent force to compel a person to perform it.[30] (5) It is considered a means to unsurpassed pleasure, which some believe to be liberation, although the text argues this view is unsound.[31]
From: Brahma Sutras (Shankaracharya)
(1) Actions are the means for him who is desirous of the heavenly world, so the knowledge of Brahman is enjoined as a means for him who is desirous of immortality.[32] (2) Actions are related to the world as the abode of the fruits of actions, and these fruits have their definite places, times, and causes, and depend on man.[33] (3) This refers to motion, specifically concerning the atoms, which is necessary for their conjunction and the subsequent formation of compounds, but its origination is questioned due to the lack of a definite cause during the pralaya.[34] (4) Action is a term that is connected with sacrificial action that depends on action, and is relevant when considering the postures for meditation.[35] (5) Because of the non-extension of the individual soul, there is no confusion of the results of actions, and therefore each individual is responsible for their deeds.[36]
From: Brahma Sutras (Ramanuja)
(1) This is present when considering what comes before, such as the altar constructed of bricks, which is related to the subject matter, and it is also considered a sacrificial performance.[37] (2) The action is often glorified or elucidated by the arthavadas and mantras, which connect the actions to the qualities and details of the gods or other beings involved.[38] (3) Refers to the deeds that have yet to commence and are implied to lead to new embodiments for the souls.[39] (4) The processes or deeds performed by the Self upon returning to the physical realm.[40] (5) Effort and engagement in spiritual practices that lead to the realization of the true nature of the Self and Brahman.[41]
From: Vivekachudamani
(1) It refers to any deed, behavior, or conduct performed by an individual, which, in enlightened state, is no longer motivated by self-interest or sensory gratification.[42] (2) An act that is selfish, when stopped, leads to the destruction of desires, which is considered as liberation, or freedom from attachment and suffering.[43] (3) These are performed by people, both good and bad, with the help of sunlight, but the sun is unaffected by their results, as indicated in the material.[44] (4) It is a deed that precedes every outcome; consequences do not arise without it, demonstrating the necessity of causation.[45] (5) The result of desire, leading to countless sufferings and perpetuating a cycle.[46]
From: Chandogya Upanishad (Shankara Bhashya)
(1) Action is contingent upon attaining Bliss, implying that a state of happiness or fulfillment is a necessary precursor to purposeful behavior, and when one attains Bliss, then he acts.[47] (2) The provided text indicates that the performance of 'Actions' is preceded by being minded to perform them, implying that the Mind plays a crucial role in initiating and carrying out actions.[48] (3) It is something to be understood and is referred to as Kriti. It involves controlling the senses and concentrating the mind to accomplish service.[49] (4) The subsequent step or manifestation that arises from understanding the True, indicating the ultimate goal of knowledge and comprehension.[50]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad
(1) He who does these, placing them in Brahman, abandoning attachment, is not tainted by sin as a lotus-leaf by water.[51] (2) Something altogether excluded from Brahman, as indicated by scriptural descriptions.[52]
From: Brahma Sutras (Shankara Bhashya)
(1) Actions that have not yet begun to yield results are destroyed by a knower of Brahman to attain Jivan-mukti, as explained in the provided content.[53] (2) The Lord is the giver of fruits based on these, and the Jiva acts as directed by the Lord.[54]
From: Mandukya Upanishad (Gaudapa Karika and Shankara Bhashya)
(1) In Vedanta, 'action' refers to both physical actions and the tendencies shaped by past experiences influencing future actions.[55]
From: Brihadaranyaka Upanishad
(1) Action, its factors, and its results are considered to be objects for the seer, the self, and the text suggests that the self is different from these objects, emphasizing its purity.[56]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) Actions are a key component, with both abandonment of actions and application to actions leading to emancipation, but devotion to action is seen as superior.[57] (2) Even performing all actions at all times having refuge, one obtains the seat that is eternal and imperishable, illustrating the possibility of liberation even while acting.[58] (3) The text refers to without ever being attached to "action".[59] (4) The roots of the Asvattha, leading to this, are extended to this world of men.[60] (5) The fruits of which the sentient being reaps, thus transmigrating through these conditions.[61]
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) Action and passion belong to the soul only, and are not attributable to the mind, according to the text's philosophical discussion.[62] (2) Action should be directed by the motion of a clock or watch, which act their outward movement, as part of living with manliness and following rules.[63] (3) The text views actions as causes of repeated births, emphasizing the need to bid farewell to the performance of acts in order to achieve lasting results.[64] (4) These are the different courses of actions, which are as the strings binding the machines of the world together, as described.[65] (5) The action of the body, understanding and senses, with those of the elements of earth and water, fire, air, and vacuum extending all about us.[66]
From: Bhagavadgita
(1) Actions are related to renunciation and pursuit of action, which are both instruments of happiness; performing actions dedicating them to Brahman prevents taint by sin.[67] (2) Action is one's business, but not with its fruit; attachment should be cast off, and actions performed with devotion, being equable in success or ill-success.[68] (3) Action is connected to the roots of the Ashvattha that extend downwards to the human world, implying that actions are influenced by the structure of the metaphorical tree.[69] (4) Performance of prescribed duties is considered better than inaction, supporting the body and the world.[70]
From: Markandeya Purana
(1) Action is described as a goddess and is deeply revered, symbolizing the dynamic and transformative power that is essential to the functioning and continuation of the world.[71] (2) Action is presented as both a path of ignorance and a cause of acquiring knowledge, with disinterested action leading to no bondage.[72]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) The son became skilled in all of these, residing in the hermitage of Vashishtha.[73]
From: Bhagavad-gita-rahasya (or Karma-yoga Shastra)
(1) Action is supported by the Gita and is crucial for carrying out one's duties in the world according to one's religion, ultimately leading to Release.[74]
From: Garuda Purana
(1) It is one of the qualities, along with illumination and nescience, that should be worshipped, in addition to petals and stamens.[75]
From: Vishnu Purana
(1) Actions are what Dhruva believes will earn him honors, declaring that he wishes for no other honors than such as his own actions shall acquire, even surpassing his father's.[76]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) The text emphasizes deeds performed by Krishna and Brahma, highlighting the significance of their activities within the narrative and their subsequent comprehension.[77] (2) The fact or process of doing something, typically to achieve an aim.[78] (3) Refers to the deed of breaking the yogurt pot by the boy.[79] (4) 'karma' represents the deeds or activities performed, reflecting the principle of cause and effect in spiritual terms.[80] (5) Refers to the events occurring within the context of the text.[81]
From: Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu
(1) These are expressions or behaviors that manifest emotions, specifically observed when sitting on a seat lower, following the lead, obeying orders, and relinquishing personal desires.[82] (2) The physical manifestations of avega, such as retreating, shaking, covering, walking swiftly, and rubbing.[83] (3) Such as kirtana, imbued with the Lord’s mercy, in which devotees are absorbed.[84] (4) The attempts made to stop the flow of tears, hide the voice, and conceal trembling.[85] (5) This denotes an activity or deed that is performed or undertaken with a specific intention or goal.[86]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) The behaviors or deeds that are being judged or discussed in the context of punishment.[87]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) This is one of the potencies of the Supreme Brahman, as mentioned in the Shvetashvatara Upanishad, which is different from its nature.[88]
From: Tiruvaymoli (Thiruvaimozhi): English translation
(1) The provided text refers to all acts, past, present and future, as being dominated by a tender girl with lips like red fruit.[89]
From: Journal of Ayurveda and Integrated Medical Sciences
(1) This term describes the effect that a drug has on the body, and suppositories are designed to deliver medications with specific actions.[90] (2) These are the therapeutic effects or properties that are associated with various Ayurveda medicines, as described in the document, such as Dipana, Pachana, and others.[91] (3) These, whether physical, mental, or verbal, lead to positive or negative outcomes, which shape an individual's destiny, and one's future is seen to be directly influenced by their past and present.[92] (4) Prakshepa Dravyas often have more than one action, but their main action will depend upon the dosage forms to which they are added.[93] (5) These are the effects of the formulation, including Medhya, antistress, adaptogenic, and other therapeutic benefits, as described in the text.[94]
From: International Research Journal of Ayurveda and Yoga
(1) These include Dipana, Pachana, Vatahara, Mala vatanulomana, Virechana, and Vedana sthapaka.[95] (2) Gandhaka rasayana is having actions like dipana (appetizer ) pachana (digestives), krimighna (anthelmintics), anti-infective, antibacterial, bactericidal, antimicrobial Rasayana (Rejuvenator) and immunomodulator actions.[96] (3) These are the effects or functions of Pravala panchamrita rasa within the body, such as being cooling, reducing inflammation, and reducing anxiety, as outlined in the provided text.[97] (4) This describes the therapeutic effects of Lodhra, according to the Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India.[98]
From: Charaka Samhita (English translation)
(1) "Action" is the source of the world and of all affliction, while quietus comes from inaction, suggesting that activity leads to suffering and that peace is found in stillness.[99] (2) Action is described as the effect of substances, determined by their nature, qualities, and the manner in which they are administered, including time, place, and mode.[100]
From: Padarthadharmasamgraha and Nyayakandali
(1) Action is frequently discussed in the context of salutations, the commencement of work, and the relationship between words and their meanings in sentences.[101] (2) The activity which causes the parts of the body and the objects in contact with these parts to connect with locations above and disconnect from those below.[102] (3) These are similar to qualities, requiring other things in order to be produced, highlighting the interconnectedness of events. The material indicates that these are not self-generated, but arise from relationships.[103] (4) Qualities are devoid of this, meaning they do not possess the capacity to initiate or undergo movement or change independently.[104] (5) One of the three categories, along with Substance and Quality, related to the class ‘Being’ by the relationship of Inherence and having communities and individualities.[105]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) Actions, whether good or bad, are what cause an individual to be fettered and experience pairs of opposites; liberation involves freedom from actions.[106] (2) Describes deeds or activities that, when performed to a high standard, contribute to the respect an individual receives, though it is not typically associated with the Shudra caste.[107] (3) Actions are categorized as intentional, driven by the mind's determination, and unintentional, such as those occurring under misapprehension or by chance, both types carrying responsibility for the agent.[108] (4) Action refers to assiduity in performing actions as laid down in Shrutis and Smritis, indicating that performing such actions is a ground for respect.[109] (5) Examples include the saying of Twilight Prayers and such other rites.[110]
From: Yoga-sutras (with Vyasa and Vachaspati Mishra)
(1) Things that leave residual effects that influence future experiences.[111] (2) This is brought about by the qualities, and it is not innate, but rather incidental, with the purpose of existence being the fulfillment of the object of another.[112] (3) This signifies virtuous or harmful deeds and their respective outcomes, representing the process and its related consequences, which are linked to the individual's behavior.[113] (4) The action, in the context of the text, is directed towards the means, not the result, indicating the process of utilizing practices like Yoga and observances, without focusing on the outcome.[114]
From: Shat-cakra-nirupana (the six bodily centres)
(1) These are considered good when they are performed through the service of the Lotus feet of the Guru, leading the Yogi to experience Mahanada.[115]
From: Natyashastra (English)
(1) Efforts made toward realizing the Principal Plot in a structured manner by skilled creators.[116]
From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)
(1) Refers to the perception or interpretation of theft-related actions in the narrative, contrasted with the Shastras.[117]
From: Parama Samhita (English translation)
(1) Action as well as its fruit are alike the outcome of His grace.[118]
Jain concept of 'Action'
In Jainism, "Action" signifies the behavior of a liberated soul, one who avoids actions driven by past karma and orients themselves towards spiritual liberation (Moksha).
From: Sutrakritanga (English translation)
(1) The Great Hero does no actions which are the effects of former sins, and he is directed towards Moksha.[119]
From: Bhagavati-sutra (Viyaha-pannatti)
(1) After the time of this, if not done, it is not misery.[120]
From: Uttaradhyayana Sutra
(1) "Actions", along with vows, objects of sense, and Samitis, are elements that a monk should always exert himself with regard to in their spiritual practice.[121]
The concept of Action in local and regional sources
Action encompasses deeds, natural processes, initiative, and behavior. It is essential for conveying messages and achieving goals, especially when aligned with inspiration and integrity. Balance is needed to avoid rashness or inaction.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) The word "actions" emphasizes the role of breath as the foundation for all activities and endeavors throughout life, enabling movement, expression, and engagement with the world.[122] (2) The end of our actions is questioned, prompting reflection on the purpose and ultimate destination of human endeavors, especially in the context of the daily transactions at the State Bank of Hyderabad.[123] (3) Action is the way to give the true message to the world, and right action can come only from inspiration, and we have to learn to express that inspiration in ways.[124] (4) The action is presented in the play as expressionism, where events are acted out on the stage as they are conceived within the characters' minds.[125] (5) This, when combined with Yoga, along with the mind and supermind, will lead to victory in a metaphorical battle when the mind and supermind work together.[126]
From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda
(1) Actions are considered Karma, and the effects of past actions are sometimes related to metaphysics, which highlights the significance of every deed performed by an individual.[127] (2) This is inherent in nature, not in the Spirit, and it is the manifestation of the law governing natural processes, while the Spirit remains constant and unaffected by it, showing its distinction.[128] (3) Actions are mentioned in the context of the monastic vow, where there must not be the slightest divergence between one's words and actions, emphasizing the importance of integrity and consistency.[129] (4) This implies the process of engaging with a situation, which is a characteristic of the man who attracts the Goddess of Wealth, suggesting that prosperity favors those who take initiative.[130] (5) Action is the fact or process of doing something, and the text says let there be action without reaction.[131]
From: Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints
(1) This was blessed by the out-castes, referring to the deeds of Eknath. They expressed happiness and gratitude for it, showing appreciation.[132] (2) The provided text mentions that someone is free from these, suggesting a state beyond conventional deeds.[133]
From: Sanskrit Words In Southeast Asian Languages
(1) This term signifies the act of doing something, representing the behavior or conduct a person undertakes or performs, as described.[134]
The concept of Action in scientific sources
Action, in this context, encompasses physical movements in rehabilitation, preventative measures for health, participatory research, performance maintenance, goal achievement, social accountability, and whistleblowing.
From: Sustainability Journal (MDPI)
(1) The text uses the main results of the questionnaire as reference for the design of the strategy, comprising basic strategic pillars that include specific actions to support recovery.[135] (2) The impact of hope on behavior depends on whether it is constructive or based on denial. Constructive hope is associated with pro-environmental behaviors and involves positive reappraisal of a situation.[136] (3) Action, also referred to as Pro-Environmental Behavior, is interconnected with both eco-anxiety and ecological grief, which creates a key premise in the model.[137] (4) The text indicates action is a key success of the PAR-based URE to build and bolster bridges through research and strengthen connections among community groups.[138] (5) Ports can connect their actions with all 17 SDGs and ports can develop key performance indicators and sustainability reports to assess their sustainability performance.[139]
From: International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health (MDPI)
(1) The evaluation team rated the overall performance of ILO’s DWCPs, strategies, and actions by triangulating the information and data gathered through desk reviews, surveys, and interviews.[140] (2) Steps taken by individuals to maintain thermal comfort, as well as the actions that older people prefer to take to keep warm in cold weather and cool in hot weather.[141] (3) are behaviors that can be expected to change relatively quickly, allowing for the detection of effects in a short period, such as one month.[142] (4) During the action phase, the women actively prepared and executed the plan when they were emotionally ready, marking the culmination of the decision to leave an abusive relationship.[143] (5) Action, or A, is the stage where individuals are actively engaged in modifying their behavior and are working to prevent relapse, demonstrating overt behavior change efforts.[144]
From: Religions Journal (MDPI)
(1) The actions seek to signal change and involve occurrences of coverage and concealment, or wrapping and disclosing, in various Jewish practices.[145] (2) Faber seeks to strengthen the freedom of each individual, emphasizing their capacity to discern and regulate their actions to the best of their abilities, showing the value of individual agency.[146] (3) The provided text discusses the soul as an initiator of action, causing actions without being caused, and emphasizes the possibility of not acting or acting otherwise, indicating free will.[147] (4) It is a phenomenon analyzed by Maurice Blondel through regressive analysis, serving as the expression for the recovery of the relationship between real and notional knowledge.[148] (5) Responding to the spiritual void in social conditions necessitates a transformation of citizens towards public affairs, enabling individuals to become intelligently passionate and committed to enacting what they hold valuable, which is seen as having great value.[149]
From: Religious Inquiries (Journal)
(1) The action to which the will is related should also be taken into account, because in some situations weakness of will, and then moral weakness, happens if and only if the agent abandons the previously formed intention or resolution reasonably.[150] (2) Actions are not contingent upon predestination or divine approval; instead, they are determined by the individual's own decisions, willpower, and capabilities, according to the text.[151] (3) Action is related to virtue in semantic, epistemological, metaphysical and psychological ways, and is the first step that shapes a person into a good or bad person.[152]
From: African Journal of Primary Health Care and Family Medicine
(1) This is a component of participatory action research, where one puts their learning into practice, which then requires reflection to develop new theory and knowledge.[153] (2) Action, as a component of social accountability, involves actively addressing the needs of individuals and communities, reflecting a commitment to service and positive outcomes.[154] (3) This is the process of doing something to achieve a result, and the action plan included weekly health education talks and home visits by CHVs.[155]
From: South African Journal of Physiotherapy
(1) What is needed now to avoid a dip in performance.[156] (2) This refers to the physical movements of the patient, and rehabilitation aims to improve these actions.[157]
From: The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences
(1) The process of doing something, and the study aims to help prevent NCDs and catastrophic payments, through appropriate preventative action.[158]
From: South African Family Practice
(1) This refers to the act of whistleblowing, which is the central focus of the provided text.[159]
Classical concept of 'Action'
From: The Nicomachean Ethics of Aristotle
(1) Actions are related to feelings, and arguments about matters that are concerned with feelings and actions are considered less reliable than observable facts.[160] (2) The text acknowledges that discussions about actions and feelings possess a definiteness that is proportionate to the specific subject matter being considered.[161] (3) It is associated with deliberation, and a decree is a thing to be carried out in the form of an individual act; those who 'do things' are said to 'take part in politics'.[162] (4) Practical wisdom is concerned with this, necessitating a preference for having both practical and philosophic wisdom or prioritizing the former. A good can be brought about by this.[163] (5) Action cannot have an end other than itself, because good action itself is its end, which differentiates it from making, where the end is external.[164]
From: The Book of the Dead
(1) They are deeds, behaviors, or conduct, which are judged in the afterlife, including avoiding evil, helping others, and honoring the gods.[165]