Significance of Bhava
Bhava is a significant concept across various philosophical and religious traditions, primarily indicating emotional states or qualities that influence perception and expression. In Jainism, it relates to qualities of astikayas and mental states. In Vaishnavism, Bhava emphasizes the emotional states of devotees towards Krishna, shaping their devotion. Similarly, in Tibetan Buddhism, it encompasses qualities cultivated in meditation and the cyclical nature of existence. Overall, Bhava serves as a crucial term encapsulating the interplay between emotional dispositions and spiritual experiences across different contexts.
Synonyms: Existence, Being, Emotion, Essence, State of being, Sentiment, Becoming, Nature, State
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Bhava'
Bhava in Buddhism symbolizes the cyclical condition of existence, emphasizing the processes of becoming shaped by past actions, desires, and attachments. It reflects the entrapment in life's cycles until one achieves enlightenment.
From: The Doctrine of Paticcasamuppada
(1) The condition of existence or becoming, influenced by past actions and desires.[1] (2) The state of existence or becoming that arises from the previous processes of craving and clinging.[2]
From: A Discourse on Paticcasamuppada
(1) Becoming; a state in the cycle of existence influenced by kamma before achieving enlightenment.[3] (2) Refers to the state of becoming or existence, derived from the attachment represented by upadana.[4]
From: Introducing Buddhist Abhidhamma
(1) The process of becoming, which refers to the karmic and existential aspects of rebirth and existence.[5]
From: Catusacca Dipani
(1) The process of becoming, which follows from upadana and includes the conditions for continued existence.[6]
From: Abhidhamma in Daily Life (by Ashin Janakabhivamsa)
(1) Existences or states of being that individuals crave due to tanha.[7]
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) The process of existence which involves becoming and can be differentiated into sensuous, fine-material, and immaterial existences.[8]
From: Patipada (path of practice)
(1) The condition of existence or becoming, linked to the cycle of birth and death.[9]
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) The act of existence or becoming, arising due to actions shaped by craving and grasping.[10]
From: Abhidharmakośa
(1) Bhava is the state of becoming or existence that results from actions (karma) leading to new life.[11]
From: Blue Annals (deb-ther sngon-po)
(1) Refers to the cultivation of qualities or states of being within the meditative framework.[12]
From: Tattvasangraha [with commentary]
(1) A term that refers to the world or existence itself, particularly emphasizing the cyclical nature of life and the entrapment within it.[13]
Hindu concept of 'Bhava'
In Hinduism, Bhava encompasses emotional states related to worship, love, and devotion, significantly influencing spiritual expression and practice. It symbolizes transformation and can also denote various aspects of Lord Shiva, reflecting divine connections.
From: Bhajana-Rahasya
(1) Emotions that arise from the stimulation of the heart in a transcendental context.[14] (2) The emotional state or mood that a devotee aspires to embody in relation to their divine service.[15] (3) The first stage of prema, it is described as a sprout of prema that softens the heart through cultivation of activities favorable to Shri Krishna.[16] (4) The emotional state of devotion that moves the heart and enhances the connection between a devotee and the Divine.[17] (5) A heightened emotional state or sentiment in devotion, often manifesting in ecstatic feelings.[18]
From: Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu
(1) A concept in Hindu philosophy indicating a particular mood or feeling, especially in the context of devotion.[19] (2) An emotional state or disposition that is essential for attaining rasa.[20] (3) A term referring to the internal state or emotional quality that can influence the softening of the heart in the given context.[21] (4) A term referring to emotional or sentimental state, which is highlighted as the main result of the angas in contrast to the material results.[22] (5) The emotional state or sentiment that cultivates a deep connection with the divine.[23]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) may you be[24] (2) The emotional sentiment or mood experienced in devotional service.[25] (3) The specific devotional sentiments or states of love exhibited by different types of devotees.[26] (4) the transcendental state of ecstasy that specific devotional practices can lead to, often associated with deep emotional experiences.[27] (5) The emotional state or feeling of devotion that arises in a devotee's heart, indicating deep engagement in bhakti.[28]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) Love or emotional state, representing the deep feelings toward the divine.[29] (2) Refers to mood or feelings, particularly in a devotional context.[30] (3) A verb meaning 'become,' used in the context of a curse directed at Ghantanada.[31]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) Various emotional states or sentiments that manifest in relationships, specifically in the context of devotional love.[32] (2) The feeling or mood associated with devotion that allows practitioners to experience genuine pleasure in religious activities.[33]
From: Srila Gurudeva (The Supreme Treasure)
(1) The emotional mood that a devotee experiences in relation to Krishna, which can lead to deeper spiritual realization.[34] (2) The emotional state of love for God, which is essential in deepening one's devotion.[35]
From: Sri Krishna-Chaitanya
(1) The emotional states of devotion that develop progressively in worshippers, crucial for experiencing attachment in the service of Krishna.[36]
From: Skanda Purana
(1) Another name for God Shiva, associated with the worship performed by Vamana after his adventures.[37] (2) Refers to Lord Shiva, indicating the connection of the river Reva to divine powers associated with creation and destruction.[38] (3) A form created by Brahma representing the greatness of the Grandsire.[39] (4) A deity propitiated by the Gandharva, indicating the spiritual significance of observing the Somavara Vrata.[40] (5) A name or title used to address Shiva, reflecting his role in the cycle of creation and destruction.[41]
From: Brahmanda Purana
(1) Another name for god Shiva, who played a crucial role in controlling the flow of the Ganga.[42] (2) A term often used to refer to Lord Shiva, emphasizing his nature as the source of existence and transformation.[43] (3) The second name of God Shiva connecting him with the waters and the process of creation.[44] (4) Another name for God Shiva, often denoting the transformative aspect of divinity.[45]
From: Linga Purana
(1) A term referring to one of the forms of divine presence, understood to embody responsible governance of natural elements.[46] (2) Another name or aspect associated with lord Shiva, representing the dynamic nature of existence and creativity.[47] (3) A term often referring to the state of existence or experience, with an emphasis on devotion and connection to Lord Shiva.[48]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) Another name for Rudra, emphasizing his warrior-like qualities.[49] (2) Another name for Mahadeva, symbolizing his role as a creator and destroyer within the cosmic cycle.[50]
From: Padma Purana
(1) A deity who, after emerging from the nether world, becomes Kalagni.[51]
From: Agni Purana
(1) States of mind or feelings that are evoked through poetic expression.[52]
From: Markandeya Purana (Study)
(1) A name among the many epithets of lord Shiva found in the texts.[53]
From: Bhagavad-gita-rahasya (or Karma-yoga Shastra)
(1) The manifestation of qualities or experiences that arise from the interplay of the three qualities (sattva, rajas, tamas) within Reason, impacting the activities of the Subtle Body.[54]
From: Harivamsha Purana
(1) Another name for Shiva, often referred to in scriptures.[55]
From: Sahitya-kaumudi by Baladeva Vidyabhushana
(1) This refers to the general concept of emotion in the text.[56] (2) Emotion or state of being, particularly one that is prominent or significant.[57] (3) Various emotional states or feelings that contribute to the creation of rasa when combined appropriately.[58] (4) An emotional state or quality, which can indicate various forms of affection, especially in the context of devotion.[59] (5) An emotional state or mood; in this context, it is illustrated through the emotions experienced by the Pulinda women related to love and admiration.[60]
From: Vakyapadiya of Bhartrihari
(1) A term referring to positive existence, which is a manifestation of the Self associated with the present.[61] (2) A term used in the context of particular situations or states.[62] (3) The state or condition related to the action expressed by the verb suffixes.[63] (4) Refers to existence or being; it is the state or quality that is produced or brought into reality.[64] (5) A concept that is influenced by the existence or non-existence of other categories, like abhava.[65]
From: Vakyapadiya (study of the concept of Sentence)
(1) The root-meaning or essence of a word, which denotes both the activity (vyapara) and the result (phala) in a sentence.[66]
From: Amarakoshodghatana of Kshirasvamin (study)
(1) The psychological states or moods of the mind that contribute to the creation of rasa within a performance.[67]
From: Abhinaya-darpana (English)
(1) An emotional state or mood as understood by the Knowers, which influences the gestures and movements of the necks.[68] (2) Bhava represents the initial emotional state of a performer prior to expression, which evolves into hava as it manifests through gestures and movements.[69] (3) Mood or emotional state in Indian drama, essential for conveying the essence of the narrative.[70]
From: Mudrarakshasa (literary study)
(1) Elements that induce emotions in dramatic representation, serving as the foundation for rasa.[71]
From: Dasarupaka (critical study)
(1) States of mind or emotional expressions that play a crucial role in shaping the narrative and character dynamics in drama.[72]
From: Mandukya Upanishad (Madhva commentary)
(1) A term denoting the concept of existence or manifestation, particularly in relation to the Jiva entering into a body.[73]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad Bhashya Vartika
(1) The term used to denote existence or being, particularly referring to something positive in the context of the text.[74]
From: Mandukya Upanishad (Gaudapa Karika and Shankara Bhashya)
(1) The perceived objects or forms that are imagined to exist, which are seen as separate but are ultimately non-dual with the Atman.[75]
From: Prasthanatrayi Swaminarayan Bhashyam (Study)
(1) A term indicating a state of being or experiencing, often used in relation to achieving a state like that of Brahman.[76]
From: Bhagavatpadabhyudaya by Lakshmana Suri (study)
(1) Emotional states or sentiments that contribute to the overall expression of Rasa in literary works.[77]
From: Shakti and Shakta
(1) The principle of becoming; it refers to the dynamic process of manifestation and transformation in nature.[78] (2) The emotional and mental attitude or disposition associated with the practice of worship, essential for transforming mundane acts into spiritual offerings.[79] (3) A property or quality of the mind that describes the different temperaments of individuals in spiritual practices.[80] (4) The emotional state or disposition of the worshipper, which influences the approach to Ritual.[81]
From: Padarthadharmasamgraha and Nyayakandali
(1) The existence or presence of qualities or substances, which is essential to the understanding of Abhava (negation).[82] (2) The desire that is not expressed and is inferred from certain signs is called 'Bhava' or 'Inclination.'[83]
From: Vishnudharmottara Purana (Art and Architecture)
(1) The emotional expression in Painting, crucial for enhancing the beauty of a portrait.[84] (2) The expressions of inner ideas of a dramatist through words, gestures, and facial expressions.[85]
From: Shishupala-vadha (Study)
(1) The suggested or implied meaning and emotional undertones within the poetry that enhance its depth.[86] (2) A term for mood or emotional expression in drama, with references to its permanent characteristics.[87]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) Root term indicating reaching or presence, applied in the context of how words affect the addressed individual in communication.[88] (2) A term referring to the feeling or state of mind, particularly in relation to the acceptance or rejection of vessels based on their condition.[89]
From: Malatimadhava (study)
(1) Feelings and emotions that give rise to sentiments in various modes of dramatic representation.[90]
From: Lakulisha-Pashupata (Philosophy and Practice)
(1) The process of becoming, illustrating how all beings can transform into representatives of divinity under God's influence.[91]
Jain concept of 'Bhava'
In Jainism, Bhava signifies a mental state or disposition encompassing emotional and spiritual dimensions, while also relating to the qualities of astikayas, characterized by sensory attributes like color, smell, taste, and touch.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) Mental state or disposition; can refer to emotional or spiritual aspects.[92]
From: Bhagavati-sutra (Viyaha-pannatti)
(1) Bhava relates to the qualities that describe the astikayas, such as characteristics like color, smell, taste, and touch.[93]
The concept of Bhava in local and regional sources
Bhava encompasses emotional expression in music, highlighting its significance in conveying feelings, enhancing aesthetic experiences, and serving as a core concept in the performance of melodies and songs. It embodies the mood and sentiment in artistic expression.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) Mood or emotional state in art that enhances the experience of aesthetic enjoyment and understanding.[94] (2) The emotional expression in music, which is central to its performance.[95] (3) The emotional or sentiment evoked by a melody, often expressed through art.[96] (4) Emotional expression or idea in music that conveys feelings and states of mind.[97] (5) The expression of emotions in music, serving as the core concept in the performance of songs and melodies.[98]
The concept of Bhava in scientific sources
Bhava pertains to the qualities of food that influence digestion and the formation of Doshas. It underscores the relationship between the inherent characteristics of food and its impact on one’s physical and mental health.
From: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
(1) Qualities that characterize food and its effect on the formation of Doshas during digestion.[99]