Significance of Austerities
Austerities encompass a variety of self-discipline practices aimed at spiritual growth across different traditions, including Buddhism, Hinduism, Jainism, and many others. Generally, they involve rigorous self-denial, avoidance of physical pleasures, and adherence to practices that enhance spiritual development and purity. In Buddhism, for instance, austerities reflect the journey toward enlightenment, while in Jainism, they focus on overcoming karmic bondage. Similarly, in Hindu and Vaishnavism traditions, austerities are performed to achieve higher consciousness and divine favor, illustrating a common theme centered on spiritual advancement through self-discipline.
Synonyms: Severity, Self-denial, Discipline, Frugality, Asceticism
In Dutch: Bezuinigingen
In Finnish: Säästöt
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Austerities'
Austerities in Buddhism involve rigorous self-discipline and renunciation of physical pleasures aimed at spiritual growth, contrasting the Bodhisattva's journey toward enlightenment, emphasizing the balance between discipline and true understanding to avoid suffering.
From: Mahavastu (great story)
(1) Strict self-discipline practices aimed at spiritual advancement, often involving renunciation of physical comforts.[1] (2) The rigorous spiritual practices undertaken by the Exalted One during his quest for enlightenment.[2] (3) Severe self-discipline practices that the Bodhisattva undertakes in the pursuit of enlightenment.[3]
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) Practices of self-discipline and penance that the Buddha undertook extensively throughout his life.[4] (2) The self-discipline practices engaged in by the Bodhisattva during his quest for enlightenment, contrasting with Yashodhara's hidden struggles.[5]
From: Buddhacarita
(1) Strict practices undertaken to cultivate self-discipline and spiritual insight, often involving severe deprivation.[6]
From: Vimalakirti Nirdesa Sutra
(1) Practices of self-discipline and renunciation undertaken by practitioners to strengthen resolve and spiritual commitment.[7]
From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) Severe self-discipline and avoidance of indulgence, practiced by the Buddha after renouncing the world.[8]
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) Rigorous practices the Buddha underwent for six years to attain spiritual purity and understanding before achieving enlightenment.[9]
From: Vinaya Pitaka (4): Parivara
(1) Practices of strict self-discipline undertaken to achieve spiritual advancement.[10]
From: A Discourse on Paticcasamuppada
(1) Practices of severe self-discipline and avoidance of indulgence, which, when divorced from true understanding, may lead to suffering.[11]
From: The Fo-Sho-Hing-Tsan-King (A Life of Buddha)
(1) Practices of self-discipline and denial of physical pleasures aimed at spiritual growth and the destruction of lust.[12]
From: Blue Annals (deb-ther sngon-po)
(1) Rigorous spiritual practices that ‘khon phu ba followed, suggested by his mentor.[13]
Hindu concept of 'Austerities'
Austerities in Hinduism involve rigorous self-discipline, meditation, and self-denial practices aimed at achieving spiritual growth, purification, and divine connection. These practices have historically been essential for spiritual advancement and realization of higher consciousness.
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) The rigorous practices followed by Rishis, which enhance their spiritual powers and virtues.[14] (2) The rigorous practices engaged in by the saint living in the hermitage, who is devoted to virtue and seeks to maintain his spiritual commitment.[15] (3) Practices of self-denial and discipline intended to achieve spiritual advancement.[16] (4) Strict lifestyle practices adhered to by ascetics like Nara and Narayana, aimed at spiritual discipline.[17] (5) Self-discipline practices aimed at spiritual growth, which enable an individual to enjoy the fruits of righteousness without being damaged by worldly pursuits.[18]
From: Skanda Purana
(1) Practices of self-discipline and restraint followed by characters to attain spiritual merit, significant in the context of the story.[19] (2) Spiritual practices that involve self-discipline and restraint, which the demon was engaged in.[20] (3) Practices maintained by Mrikanda, including fasting and physical endurance, to achieve his goal of having a son.[21] (4) Severe practices undertaken by deities to attain greater spiritual powers and connectedness, particularly by Hara and Parvati.[22] (5) Severe self-discipline and avoidance of all forms of indulgence, often essential for spiritual advancement.[23]
From: Markandeya Purana
(1) The practices of severe self-discipline that Ananda undertakes in pursuit of spiritual purity and emancipation.[24] (2) Vows and strict practices observed by rishi Ritavac, which he maintained despite the difficulties arising from his son's conduct and his personal afflictions.[25] (3) Spiritual practices and self-discipline that the learned birds claim to have practiced.[26] (4) Severe self-discipline and abstaining from food that the maiden practiced in the forest.[27] (5) Practices of deep discipline and dedication that Galava undertook and was threatened by the Daitya.[28]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki
(1) Rigorous self-discipline and self-denial, undertaken by Agastya to achieve spiritual goals.[29] (2) The disciplined practices that Shri Rama intends to complete before engaging in hunting, reflecting themes of self-control.[30] (3) The severe practices performed by the great ascetics that led to the blossoming of eternal flowers in Matanga's Wood.[31] (4) The severe self-discipline and practices performed by Ravana that were believed to have granted him various powers.[32] (5) The spiritual practices performed by sages in the forest, indicating a life of discipline and restraint.[33]
From: Padma Purana
(1) Rigorous practices adopted for spiritual advancement, frequently mentioned concerning characters' devotion to rituals.[34] (2) Practices of self-discipline and hardship undertaken for spiritual advancement.[35] (3) Practices involving self-discipline and renunciation for spiritual growth.[36] (4) Self-imposed restraints and severe practices aimed at attaining spiritual goals and devotion to the divine.[37] (5) Severe practices of self-discipline performed for spiritual growth and attainment.[38]
From: Shiva Purana
(1) Spiritual practices associated with Himavat, exemplifying his purity and divine nature.[39] (2) Practices aimed at self-discipline and sacrifice for spiritual growth.[40] (3) Spiritual practices that involve self-discipline and renunciation, recommended to Parvati to achieve her desires.[41] (4) Self-imposed hardships or rigorous discipline for the purpose of religious or spiritual advancement.[42]
From: Bhagavata Purana
(1) Disciplines and severe practices undertaken by ascetics to attain higher spiritual states and self-realization.[43] (2) Spiritual practices involving disciplined self-control aimed at attaining a higher state of consciousness.[44] (3) Rigorous self-discipline and practices of self-denial performed to achieve spiritual growth and realization.[45] (4) Severe self-discipline and practices adopted by Bhagiratha to earn the Ganga's descent.[46]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) Rigorous self-discipline practices meant to enhance spiritual power and connection to the divine.[47] (2) Severe self-discipline and practices engaged in by Cakshusha to attain spiritual goals.[48] (3) Severe self-discipline practices that the sons undertook in their second birth to please Brahma.[49]
From: Brahma Purana
(1) Self-discipline and rigorous physical practices aimed at spiritual growth.[50] (2) Difficult practices undertaken by devotees to achieve spiritual excellence and realization of the supreme self.[51] (3) Strict self-discipline and abstention from indulgence, which is deemed essential for attaining spiritual benefits and liberation.[52]
From: Vishnu Purana (Taylor)
(1) Discipline and self-restraint practices that involve enduring physical hardships as a form of spiritual development.[53] (2) Practices undertaken by Saubhari which he recognized were undone by his attachments and desires related to family and marriage.[54] (3) Spiritual practices undertaken by Yayati after he retried to the forest following his son's ascension to kingship.[55]
From: Bhagavad-gita-mahatmya
(1) Spiritual practices or disciplines performed by Siddha-Samadhi to attain special powers.[56] (2) Rigorous spiritual practices engaged in by Sachatapa that led to purification and control over senses.[57]
From: Markandeya Purana (Study)
(1) Extreme self-discipline and abstention from worldly pleasures, usually undertaken for spiritual purposes.[58] (2) Self-imposed hardships or disciplines followed in order to achieve spiritual goals during the Vanaprastha stage.[59]
From: Brahmanda Purana
(1) The severe self-discipline and practices followed by individuals like Kapila.[60] (2) Spiritual practices involving self-discipline, often related to fasting or other forms of heightened devotion.[61]
From: Agni Purana
(1) Spiritual and physical practices that involve self-discipline and sacrifice, aimed at attaining deeper spiritual insights and connection.[62]
From: Garuda Purana
(1) The rigorous self-discipline and practices that a Vrati must undertake to earn the full merit of their vow.[63]
From: Linga Purana
(1) Severe self-discipline and practice of asceticism aimed at spiritual development and personal growth.[64]
From: Vishnu Purana
(1) Practices of self-discipline and asceticism aimed at spiritual development and moral rectitude.[65]
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) Self-discipline practices that the Brahman undertook to attain spiritual goals.[66]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) Severe self-discipline and avoidance of indulgence, often for spiritual purposes.[67] (2) Spiritual practices that involve self-discipline and renunciation aimed at purifying the body and mind, often emphasized in the path of spirituality.[68] (3) Practices that involve self-discipline and abstention from indulgence, often for spiritual growth.[69] (4) Spiritual practices of self-discipline and restraint used to gain power; in the text, they enhance the wielder's effectiveness with the Sudarshana.[70] (5) Disciplined practices aimed at spiritual development that often involve self-denial or rigorous routines.[71]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) Spiritual practices that involve self-discipline and penance, which Kalindi was performing.[72] (2) Disciplinary practices aimed at self-control for spiritual advancement.[73] (3) Severe self-discipline and avoidance of indulgence, often practiced to achieve spiritual goals.[74] (4) The discipline and spiritual practices that involve self-restraint and meditation.[75] (5) Severe self-discipline and avoidance of indulgence for spiritual growth.[76]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) Practices involving self-discipline and self-control, often through penance that cultivates bhakti over many lifetimes.[77] (2) Spiritual practices involving self-discipline and self-control aimed at achieving higher states of consciousness.[78] (3) Spiritual practices that involve self-discipline and sacrifice, which enhance one's devotion.[79] (4) Practices involving concentration on topics related to Bhagavan and the worship of Him, often including the abandonment of personal desires in pursuit of spiritual goals.[80] (5) Practices of self-denial and discipline aimed at attaining spiritual goals, mentioned in relation to the narrator's heritage.[81]
From: Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu
(1) Practices involving self-discipline and spiritual effort aimed at achieving deeper understanding or divine favor, whose results are questioned in this context.[82] (2) Practices involving self-denial or rigorous discipline aimed at achieving spiritual progress.[83]
From: Srila Gurudeva (The Supreme Treasure)
(1) Severe self-discipline and abstention from various pleasures, employed in the pursuit of spiritual goals, often referenced in the context of Lakshmi’s practices.[84]
From: Bhajana-Rahasya
(1) Spiritual practices involving self-discipline and penance, regarded as a means of attaining results in earlier ages.[85]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) Penances or strict self-discipline practices observed in Vedic traditions.[86] (2) Discipline practices that lead to the expiation of sins and personal purification.[87] (3) Practices of severe self-discipline often associated with spiritual or ascetic practices.[88] (4) Practices of self-discipline and denial that are performed by the householder as a means of spiritual development and sacrifice.[89] (5) Refers to rigorous practices done as a means of penance or purification, available for various categories of individuals.[90]
From: Baudhayana Dharmasutra
(1) Practices of self-discipline and self-restraint undertaken by hermits to attain spiritual purity.[91] (2) Practices involving self-discipline and self-denial, typically for spiritual growth.[92]
From: Vasistha Dharmasutra
(1) Practices of self-discipline and asceticism aimed at spiritual purification and atonement for sins.[93] (2) Rigorous self-discipline and denial of physical pleasures to achieve spiritual goals.[94]
From: Gobhila-grihya-sutra
(1) Spiritual practices or rigorous self-discipline linked to the ritual life described in the text.[95] (2) Practices of severe self-discipline and abstention for spiritual reasons, which the student should be addicted to.[96]
From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)
(1) Strict self-discipline and abstention from indulgence for spiritual purposes.[97] (2) Spiritual practices involving self-denial and penance, aiming for personal enlightenment.[98] (3) Disciplines performed by Dharmashila and Naravahanadatta that highlight their dedication to spiritual goals.[99] (4) Intense acts of penance undertaken by deities and ascetics to gain favor from higher powers.[100] (5) Spiritual practices undertaken by King Viradeva to seek divine favor for offspring.[101]
From: Chandogya Upanishad (english Translation)
(1) Practices of self-discipline and moderation that are essential for personal growth and spiritual advancement.[102] (2) Practices involving self-discipline and enduring hardships as a means to achieve spiritual growth and realization.[103] (3) The type of austerities referred to involves the contemplation and planning of creation, rather than physical hardships.[104]
From: Prasthanatrayi Swaminarayan Bhashyam (Study)
(1) Practices of self-discipline and restraint that are encouraged for those seeking spiritual growth.[105]
From: Bhagavatpadabhyudaya by Lakshmana Suri (study)
(1) Harsh practices performed by Kapalika over two hundred years to gain spiritual favors.[106]
From: Narayaniya (Narayaneeyam)
(1) Rigorous spiritual practices undertaken to purify the self and gain divine insight.[107] (2) The rigorous spiritual practices aimed at achieving higher states of consciousness and divine connection.[108] (3) Spiritual practices involving self-discipline and renunciation aimed at achieving higher states of consciousness and connection to the divine.[109]
From: Shaiva Upanishads (A Critical Study)
(1) Practices involving self-discipline and devotion executed for spiritual growth.[110]
From: Lakulisha-Pashupata (Philosophy and Practice)
(1) Severe self-discipline and avoidance of indulgence, often practiced by ascetics to attain spiritual strength and powers.[111]
From: Shakti and Shakta
(1) Severe practices intended to purify and strengthen spiritual resolve, often employed by sages and practitioners.[112]
From: Satapatha-brahmana
(1) Practices of self-discipline for spiritual growth undertaken by Prajapati.[113]
From: Yoga-sutras (Ancient and Modern Interpretations)
(1) Practices of self-discipline and meditation aimed at achieving spiritual growth and control over the mind.[114]
From: Vakyapadiya of Bhartrihari
(1) Disciplines or practices that involve self-denial and rigorous ethical conduct.[115]
From: History of Indian Medicine (and Ayurveda)
(1) Disciplines and self-denials practiced to gain control over one's desires and enhance spiritual focus.[116]
Jain concept of 'Austerities'
In Jainism, austerities involve rigorous self-discipline and abstention from physical pleasures, crucial for spiritual development, liberation, and purification, particularly practiced by monks to overcome desires and attain enlightenment.
From: Uttaradhyayana Sutra
(1) Rigorous self-discipline and abstention from physical pleasure, often important in a monk's path to enlightenment.[117] (2) Practices undertaken by monks to enhance their spiritual discipline and penance.[118] (3) The practice of self-denial and rigorous discipline aimed at achieving spiritual purification and growth.[119] (4) Strict self-discipline practices performed by sages and monks like Bala, which lead to a purer existence and spiritual progress.[120] (5) Practices of self-discipline aimed at achieving spiritual purity and self-control.[121]
From: Sutrakritanga (English translation)
(1) Rigorous practices undertaken by monks to cultivate discipline and renounce worldly attachments.[122] (2) Practices of severe self-discipline and abstention, often related to spiritual development.[123] (3) Practices of severe self-discipline embraced by monks to attain deeper understanding and control over desires.[124] (4) Practices characterized by self-discipline and restraint, often involving physical and mental hardships to attain a higher state of spiritual purity.[125] (5) Practices aimed at spiritual discipline that often involve self-denial and reduced pleasures.[126]
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) Bodily disciplines that one must endure for spiritual advancement and emancipation.[127] (2) Practices that involve self-discipline and self-denial as part of adhering to dharma.[128] (3) Practices of self-discipline and abstention in order to achieve spiritual or moral goals.[129] (4) Acts of self-discipline often practiced by ascetics like Jamali, representing a commitment to spiritual progress.[130]
From: Yogadrstisamuccaya of Haribhadra Suri (Study)
(1) Disciplines practiced in Jainism as forms of self-exertion, which are key to spiritual growth and liberation.[131] (2) Practices performed by Jain followers, including Tirthankaras, aimed at overcoming karmic bondage and facilitating liberation.[132]
From: Kalpa-sutra (Lives of the Jinas)
(1) Strict self-discipline practices observed by monks during the Pajjusan, aiming for spiritual advancement.[133]
From: Acaranga-sutra
(1) Strict self-discipline and avoidance of indulgence practiced by Mahavira and other Jaina ascetics in their spiritual quests.[134]
From: Tattvartha Sutra (with commentary)
(1) Practices of severe self-discipline that lead to spiritual advancement and can contribute to the attainment of different body forms.[135]
From: Bhagavati-sutra (Viyaha-pannatti)
(1) Spiritual practices embraced by Dharmaghosha, reflecting discipline and detachment.[136]
The concept of Austerities in local and regional sources
Austerities involve strict self-discipline and abstinence for spiritual growth, emphasizing practices like meditation and endurance, as seen in Tulsidas and Rakhumabai's quests for higher consciousness, highlighting the significance of self-denial and dedication.
From: Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints
(1) Practices or disciplines aimed at spiritual growth, typically involving self-denial.[137] (2) Practices of self-discipline and abstinence undertaken for spiritual growth and to achieve a higher state of consciousness.[138] (3) Severe self-discipline practiced by Tulsidas in his quest for divine manifestation.[139] (4) Practices of severe self-discipline and refraining from indulgence, which do not yield results without the name of Rama being included in one’s speech.[140] (5) Practices of self-discipline and endurance that Rakhumabai engaged in to purify herself and eliminate her faults.[141]
From: Buddhist records of the Western world (Xuanzang)
(1) Spiritual practices followed by devotees at the temple of the Devas, requiring constant diligence.[142] (2) Strict self-discipline practices aimed at attaining spiritual goals, often through physical hardship.[143]
From: Village Folk-tales of Ceylon (Sri Lanka), vol. 1-3
(1) Spiritual practices undertaken by the Prince and the ascetics, indicating a theme of sacrifice and self-discipline.[144]