Significance of Beginning
The concept of "Beginning" varies across different philosophical and spiritual traditions. In Vaishnavism, it signifies the initiation of spiritual practices and origins. Puranic texts relate it to the commencement of Vedic recitation. Natyashastra uses the term 'arambha' to denote both the eagerness to achieve a goal and the initial phase of a narrative, establishing character desires. Conversely, Vedanta emphasizes that the true nature of Brahman is timeless and without a starting point, highlighting its eternal essence and the origin of all beings from this singular reality.
Synonyms: Commencement, Initiation, Launch, Opening, Inauguration, Origin
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Beginning'
In Hinduism, "Beginning" encompasses the initiation of spiritual practices, the eternal nature of Jiva, the term 'adi' for origins, and the narrative function of 'arambha', highlighting eagerness and the opening phase of existence and stories without origins.
From: Dasarupaka (critical study)
(1) Also known as arambha, this element represents the initiation of action in the narrative.[1] (2) The beginning (arambha) pertains to the initial point in the plot where the protagonist's eagerness to achieve a goal is established, starting with the lost begging bowl.[2] (3) The initial phase of a narrative, referred to as a Rambha in the context of the opening juncture, representing eagerness for the outcome.[3] (4) Referred to as 'arambha', it signifies the eagerness to obtain a goal, exemplified in the Mudrarakshasa by Canakya's desire to win over Rakshasa.[4]
From: Natyashastra (English)
(1) The part of the play that creates curiosity regarding the Attainment of the great Object, in reference to the Seed (bija).[5]
From: Vivekachudamani
(1) It refers to the state of existing without a starting point, implying that the concept of Jiva is eternal.[6] (2) The point in time or space where something starts, which does not apply to the nature of Brahman.[7]
From: Mandukya Upanishad
(1) In this context, denotes that Brahman has no origin or starting point, reinforcing its eternal nature.[8]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad Bhashya Vartika
(1) The state of existence where all beings originated from the singular essence of Brahman.[9]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) adi–refers to the starting point or origin of something.[10]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) The act of starting or initiating a particular spiritual practice.[11]
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) Refers to the initiation of reading the Veda, wherein Om is uttered as the starting point.[12]