Significance of Attachment
Synonyms: Bond, Connection, Link, Tie, Affinity, Relationship, Adherence, Coupling
In Dutch: Bijlage; In Finnish: Liite; In Spanish: Adjunto; In German: Anhang; In Malay: Lampiran; In Swedish: Fastsättning; In French: Pièce jointe; In Italian: Allegato; In Portugese: Anexo; In Polish: Załącznik
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Attachment'
In Buddhism, Attachment is an emotional bond or clinging to objects, experiences, desires, and views, leading to suffering, hindering inner peace, and obstructing enlightenment. It manifests as craving, dependence, and a fixation that prevents true wisdom and liberation from the cycle of birth and decay.
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) It is a state that gives rise to grief and fear, but one who is without it experiences no grief or fear.[1] (2) Attachment ceases when one perceives the world as empty, similar to a mirage or bubble.[2] (3) A state of emotional dependence which, according to the Buddha, leads to grief and fear.[3] (4) The emotional bond one forms with certain people or things, which according to the Buddha, leads to suffering and is to be renounced.[4] (5) Emotional or psychological bonds that tie an individual to the material or moral world, which one must go beyond.[5]
From: Cetasikas
(1) A reality, an akusala, that arises and can be an object of mindfulness so that understanding can investigate it and see it as not self.[6] (2) The emotional bond to objects or beings that can lead to aversion when those objects or beings are lost.[7] (3) Attachments are emotional bonds to objects or experiences that lead to discomfort and suffering when those objects are not present.[8] (4) A form of clinging associated with feelings such as pleasantness, leading to a desire for more of the same experience.[9] (5) A strong emotional connection or clinging to desires and views, which tends to foster conceit when one holds onto aspects of self.[10]
From: Abhidhamma in Daily Life
(1) Attachment, also known as lobha, is defined as one of the akusala cetasikas that arise only with akusala cittas, having the function of attachment or clinging to objects.[11] (2) Attachment, synonymous with lobha, is identified as a primary cause of sorrow and suffering, and the eradication of attachment is a gradual process that requires wisdom.[12] (3) One of the cetasikas included in sankharakkhandha, along with intention, aversion, ignorance, lovingkindness, generosity, and wisdom.[13] (4) This is a mental state characterized by clinging and craving, and it can be recognized when we are inclined to eat too much of a delicious meal, or when we are attached to alcoholic drinks and cigarettes. It is a form of lobha.[14]
From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) It is something that can hamper the heart or mind, preventing one from practicing righteousness and winning peace.[15] (2) Referring to emotional or material clinging that binds individuals to the cycle of suffering, which the Buddha's teachings aim to help practitioners overcome.[16]
From: A Manual of Abhidhamma
(1) The mental state characterized by clinging or dependence on objects, leading to negative outcomes.[17] (2) An emotional bond or strong connection that can lead to possessiveness and suffering.[18]
From: Maha Buddhavamsa—The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) A defilement that ariyas have destroyed through Path-Knowledge, leading to freedom from troubles.[19] (2) A negative trait that one who is endowed with charity, morality, concentration and wisdom destroys.[20]
From: A Discourse on Paticcasamuppada
(1) People think it makes them happy, and they think life would be dreary without it, causing them to seek pleasant sense objects.[21]
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) The provided passage indicates that when entering into nirvana, one suppresses the five aggregates of attachment that will be continued no longer, and this action is the notion of cessation.[22] (2) Describes a bond or connection that can hinder spiritual progress; the freedom from it contributes to the state of purity.[23] (3) It is a state of sanga or abhinivesha that a bodhisattva avoids for dharmas, surpassing the levels of shravakas and pratyrekabuddhas and entering into the state of Bodhisattva.[24] (4) Attachment, also known as raga, is a negative emotion that, along with hatred, can be uprooted through practices such as contemplation of the disgusting or loving-kindness.[25] (5) Also known as abhinivesha, this is an experience that arises from grasping the characteristic marks of concentration.[26]
From: Shurangama Sutra (with commentary) (English)
(1) A major obstacle preventing living beings from realizing Buddhahood, causing them to constantly make distinctions of “me” and “mine.”[27] (2) This refers to the actualizing of karma, which combines with obstruction to create numerous kinds of random thoughts.[28] (3) The emotional clinging to perceptions or beliefs, which the Buddha aims to address in Ananda's enlightenment journey.[29] (4) Emotional or mental clinging to thoughts, states, or material aspects that must be relinquished to achieve true cultivation.[30] (5) The emotional clinging to experiences or outcomes, which can hinder the progress towards enlightenment and purity.[31]
From: Avatamsaka Sutra (flower adornment sutra)—Preface
(1) Refers to the clinging to past, present, and future that hinders true perception and knowledge.[32]
From: Abhidharmakośa
(1) According to the provided text, "attachment" is identified as one of the six roots of existence, playing a crucial role in rebirth and action.[33]
From: The Great Chariot
(1) Attachment to both the developing stage and completion should be stopped, with appearance producing an antidote to attachment to appearance. Stabilized ones should stop attachment to completion.[34] (2) The pure nature of mind is confused by attachment and grasping.[35] (3) It is a hindrance to inner peace, specifically to kindness and compassion, which can be addressed by meditation on compassion, joy, and equanimity to find an equilibrium.[36] (4) The emotional or mental bond that leads to clinging or dependency.[37]
From: Bodhinyana
(1) The emotional or psychological bonds individuals have to worldly objects and desires, which prevent them from achieving true wisdom.[38] (2) The emotional connections or bonds formed with things, which can lead to suffering when they are disturbed.[39]
From: Apadana commentary (Atthakatha)
(1) It is described as where living creatures get attached like an elephant which had got into the mud.[40] (2) The emotional and psychological bonds that lead to suffering, often referenced as a cause of distress in Buddhism.[41]
From: Tattvasangraha [with commentary]
(1) Attachment is what binds a 'moment' within the prison-house of the world, creating chains that confine individuals and prevent liberation from the cycle of existence.[42] (2) It is one of the human flaws, along with Ignorance and the rest; hence his word is not capable of affording the right knowledge of supersensuous things.[43] (3) A form of bondage, a component that, along with dissociation, is central to the concepts of bondage and liberation discussed within the framework of the provided text.[44]
From: Blue Annals (deb-ther sngon-po)
(1) Emotional or psychological bonds that lead to suffering and defilement, which the gcod system seeks to address.[45]
Hindu concept of 'Attachment'
In Hinduism, attachment encompasses various emotional bonds. It's often viewed as a hindrance to spiritual progress, rooted in desires and transient objects. Attachment can manifest as clinging, dependencies, and even devotion. It can lead to suffering and bondage, while also being a part of love and desire.
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) The degree of attachment to the service of Shri Caitanya directly correlates with an individual's perceived higher or lower status within the specified framework.[46] (2) This describes a feeling of affection. This affection is developed through eating a plant.[47] (3) This is what someone will develop for the lotus feet of Shri Krishna Caitanya upon hearing the prayers.[48] (4) Devotees on the path of this concept are situated thousands of miles beyond unfavorable attempts.[49] (5) Described as anuraga, it signifies a deep emotional and devotional connection that allows understanding of Bhrigu's characteristics.[50]
From: Bhajana-Rahasya
(1) This is created between the nayika and the nayaka by the sakhis as part of their service, fostering their relationship through various activities.[51] (2) A strong affinity that arises for both devotional practices and the object of worship.[52] (3) A strong emotional connection that is nurtured within a spiritual context, leading to deeper devotion.[53]
From: Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu
(1) This is also known as asakti, it develops after taste and before rati through steady absorption in sadhana.[54] (2) It is a state from which Capalya arises, influencing the unfolding events in the narrative.[55] (3) This is the feeling that is created for the object of worship, as explained in the text, which is produced by priti-rati.[56]
From: Tiruvaymoli (Thiruvaimozhi): English translation
(1) Emotional bonds or dependencies that may hinder spiritual growth or awareness, especially in relation to worldly desires.[57]
From: Srila Gurudeva (The Supreme Treasure)
(1) A deep emotional bond or affection directed towards someone or something favorable in spiritual practice.[58]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) This indicates a strong connection to either the modes of material existence or the Supreme Personality of Godhead, influencing the individual's journey towards either bondage or liberation.[59]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) Renouncing attachment and engaging in actions, while resigning them to Brahma, prevents one from being touched by sin, similar to a lotus-leaf untouched by water.[60] (2) The text refers to freed from all "attachments".[61] (3) Men fail to attain to heaven in consequence of this, which is why the world is covered.[62] (4) It is an evil that those who are steady in contemplation and repair to the eternal seat have subdued.[63] (5) He dies not who understands Him that transcends all of these.[64]
From: Bhagavad-gita-rahasya (or Karma-yoga Shastra)
(1) An emotional connection to the results of action, which should be avoided to prevent the action from binding the actor.[65] (2) Emotional or mental bonding to the results of actions, which leads to bondage and unhappiness.[66]
From: Bhagavadgita
(1) Overcoming the evils of attachment is necessary for those seeking the imperishable seat, along with being free from pride, delusion, and constant contemplation of the self.[67] (2) An emotional connection that can hinder one's ability to perform actions selflessly and is advised to be cast off for spiritual progress.[68]
From: Vivekachudamani
(1) Attachment is created in man for the body and all other sense-objects, binding him through that attachment like a beast.[69] (2) It refers to the fondness for sense-objects. Overcoming this fondness is essential for achieving Liberation and spiritual growth, requiring devotion and renunciation.[70] (3) The ties and connections to the body, organs and Pranas that bind the Jiva.[71] (4) Emotional connection or clinging to objects or experiences, likened to the tender leaves of the tree.[72]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad Bhashya Vartika
(1) Attachment refers to the emotional bonds and affection towards relatives, creating a pull opposite to the force of death in the final moments.[73] (2) The provided information indicates that individuals who have relinquished "attachment" are able to perceive the supreme Brahman, suggesting that detachment is a prerequisite for spiritual insight.[74] (3) It is identified as one of the forces that can negatively impact the knowledge one has acquired.[75]
From: Ashtavakra Gita
(1) Attachment, or holding on, results in bondage, because it prevents the mind from being free and unburdened, and this limits one's overall freedom.[76] (2) The emotional bond to transient objects and desires, which hinders one's spiritual progress and understanding of the true self.[77]
From: Mandukya Upanishad
(1) The emotional bonds or dependencies individuals form, which can lead to feelings of incompleteness when faced with separateness.[78]
From: Yoga-sutras (with Vyasa and Vachaspati Mishra)
(1) It is described as the sequential attraction to pleasure and arises from the desire to possess and thirst for pleasure.[79] (2) A defect that increases with repeated enjoyment, leading to avariciousness and causing injury through the acquisition and preservation of possessions.[80] (3) Attachment is mentioned in the text as one of the afflictions, and it can manifest in different ways, such as overpowering other afflictions or being overpowered by other attachments.[81] (4) Attachment, in this context, refers to a state that should be avoided when the presiding deities extend an invitation, as it can lead to undesirable consequences.[82] (5) Attachment is an affliction characterized by a strong emotional bond or desire towards objects, people, or experiences, which prevents freedom and understanding.[83]
From: Yoga-sutras (Vedanta Commentaries)
(1) This is listed as one of the key causes upon which karma's operation and tendency production are based.[84]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) Represented by the term 'Kama', indicating a form of love or desire, particularly in a sexual context.[85]
Jain concept of 'Attachment'
In Jainism, attachment is a multifaceted concept, encompassing emotional ties to possessions and people, infatuation, and greed. It is seen as a root of evil, hindering spiritual progress. Overcoming attachment is crucial for self-control, excellent meditation, and liberation from worldly suffering.
From: Tattvartha Sutra (with commentary)
(1) It is the renouncing of attraction for pleasing objects perceived through the senses, contributing to the practice of non-attachment.[86] (2) It is a connection or bond that restricts the soul, and its absence contributes to upward motion.[87] (3) Also known as raga, renouncing this, along with aversion, builds a shield around the soul to protect it from extraneous influences, contributing to purification.[88] (4) Attachment is a target of external austerities, and the practices like fasting and mortification aim to remove it, promoting self-control, and the attainment of excellent meditation.[89] (5) This is a root of all evils, and it is a crucial concept where one proceeds to safeguard his possession, and it is related to violence, falsehood, theft, and copulation.[90]
From: Bhagavati-sutra (Viyaha-pannatti)
(1) It is an emotional connection that, along with anger, pride, and greed, influences the forms taken by animals with five organs of senses.[91] (2) Attachment is identified as one of the negative emotions that, when diminished, leads a soul to engage in iriyapathiki activity, not samparaiki activity.[92] (3) This is a snare that certain beings are entangled in, suggesting a state of being bound or restricted by emotional connections or desires.[93]
From: Acaranga-sutra
(1) An emotional state that the wise Brahmana sought to be free from in order to focus on spiritual growth.[94] (2) The fifth vow which advises against forming emotional bonds to material possessions or beings.[95]
From: Uttaradhyayana Sutra
(1) These are the bonds that tie individuals to worldly possessions, desires, and relationships, leading to suffering and hindering spiritual progress, something to renounce.[96] (2) Emotional or material ties to people or possessions that one is advised to relinquish for spiritual advancement.[97]
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) The attachments of disciples for their gurus become equal to screens of straw, forked grain, skin and wool, and yours is like a screen of wool.[98]
From: Gommatsara by Acharya Nemichandra
(1) An animate feeling aroused by the sight of beautiful objects, attention to sensual objects, infatuation for worldly possessions, and the premature operation of greed-passion.[99]
The concept of Attachment in local and regional sources
Attachment, as defined in the text, encompasses various aspects. It's a pursuit of pleasure, a way to escape emptiness, and a cause of suffering. Attachment to objects and relationships leads to negative emotions, selfishness, and dependence, ultimately hindering one's well-being.
From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda
(1) Attachment must be given up to cross Maya, along with serving the great ones, living alone, and depending on the Lord for living.[100] (2) This is that which dwells on pleasure, where the mind like a current flows towards pleasure centers, and we are never attached where we do not find pleasure.[101] (3) This is something that should be avoided except for good works, and according to the text, it can lead to selfishness and the desire to injure others.[102] (4) Attachment to sense objects leads to longing, which in turn causes anger, and ultimately, the ruin of discrimination, according to the text.[103]
From: Triveni Journal
(1) The emotional bond that binds individuals to material things or relationships, viewed as a source of suffering in the teachings of the Gita.[104]
The concept of Attachment in scientific sources
Attachment, in this context, involves building a secure mother-child bond. This is achieved through therapy-based activities and a deeper understanding of the child's actions and needs.
From: International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health (MDPI)
(1) The emotional bond between individuals, which can contribute to the development of psychopathology, indicating its significance in mental health.[105] (2) It is a system of threat regulation and is activated by exposure to an impending threat; activation motivates searching for affinity and support from important others, influencing perception of incoming information.[106] (3) Attachment is mentioned in the context of substance addictions and behavioral addictions, suggesting a connection between attachment styles and addictive behaviors.[107] (4) Attachment is identified as a theoretical framework explaining the importance of touch in development, influencing later tendencies to seek or avoid touch.[108] (5) Attachment can be described as the process of building an emotional connection between an individual and a destination, affecting post-purchase decision formation, inducing positive behaviors for the product/service/destination.[109]
From: Sustainability Journal (MDPI)
(1) According to a table showing the sign support repair factors, this specific structure component makes up 2% of the repair cost.[110]
From: Religions Journal (MDPI)
(1) It is a concept explored in various studies, relating to psychological well-being, coping mechanisms, and responses to traumatic events and experiences such as the COVID-19 pandemic.[111] (2) The document suggests that focusing on spirits can lead to an increased level of attachment and hatred, creating limitations.[112] (3) In Buddhist terminology, this attachment is called “upadana”, and it ensues from “thirst”, which represents the desire to attain.[113] (4) Religion and spirituality are related to this psychological concept, according to research.[114] (5) Fostering a secure connection between a child and their mother through therapeutic activities and understanding the child's behavior.[115]