Significance of Comfort

Comfort is interpreted across different traditions with varying nuances. In Jyotisha, it denotes a well-being linked to physical attributes and a fulfilling lifestyle. Dharmashastra views Comfort as a desirable state often paired with wealth during ceremonies. In Theravada, Comfort is seen as a quality enhanced by respect for the wise and is also defined as a state of contentment that monks strive to maintain in community living. Overall, Comfort encompasses both physical and spiritual elements of well-being.

Synonyms: Consolation, Solace, Reassurance, Well-being, Contentment, Tranquility, Peace., Security

In Dutch: Comfort; In Finnish: Mukavuus

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Buddhist concept of 'Comfort'

Buddhism Books

In Buddhism, Comfort signifies both the enhancement of qualities through respect for wisdom and a state of contentment that monks strive to uphold in their communal living, fostering peace and harmony.

Significance of Comfort in Theravada (major branch of Buddhism):

Theravada Books

From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)

(1) Another quality that is improved through the practice of respecting and honouring the mature and wise as noted in the verse.^[1]

From: Vinaya Pitaka (3): Khandhaka

(1) A state of contentment that the monks aim to maintain while residing together.^[2]

Theravada is a major branch of Buddhism having the the Pali canon (tipitaka) as their canonical literature, which includes the vinaya-pitaka (monastic rules), the sutta-pitaka (Buddhist sermons) and the abhidhamma-pitaka (philosophy and psychology).

Hindu concept of 'Comfort'

Hinduism Books

In Hinduism, Comfort signifies a state of well-being linked to physical richness and fulfillment, and is also a desired outcome during ceremonial practices, reflecting its connection to both material wealth and spiritual contentment.

Significance of Comfort in Dharmashastra (religious law):

Dharmashastra Books

From: Paraskara-grihya-sutra

(1) A state of well-being aspired to in the ceremony, alongside wealth.^[3]

From: Hiranyakesi-grihya-sutra

(1) One of the intentions behind the steps taken during the ceremony, emphasizing the desire for a nurturing and secure relationship.^[4]

Dharmashastra contains the instructions (shastra) regarding religious conduct of livelihood (dharma), ceremonies, jurisprudence (study of law) and more. It is categorized as smriti, an important and authoritative selection of books dealing with the Hindu lifestyle.

Significance of Comfort in Jyotisha (astronomy and astrology):

Jyotisha Books

From: Brihat Samhita

(1) A state of well-being often attributable to physical attributes, indicating a rich and fulfilled life.^[5]

Jyotisha (ज्योतिष, jyotisha or jyotish) refers to ‘astronomy’ or “Vedic astrology” and represents the fifth of the six Vedangas (additional sciences to be studied along with the Vedas). Jyotisha concerns itself with the study and prediction of the movements of celestial bodies, in order to calculate the auspicious time for rituals and ceremonies.

Jain concept of 'Comfort'

Jainism Books

In Jainism, Comfort signifies the ultimate state pursued by individuals through various spiritual practices, reflecting a broader quest for inner peace and fulfillment achieved by many adherents.

Significance of Comfort in Jainism (general):

From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra

(1) The state that is sought through the practices engaged in by the majority of people.^[6]

Jainism is an Indian religion of Dharma whose doctrine revolves around harmlessness (ahimsa) towards every living being. The two major branches (Digambara and Svetambara) of Jainism stimulate self-control (or, shramana, ‘self-reliance’) and spiritual development through a path of peace for the soul to progess to the ultimate goal.

Last Updated: 29 December, 2024