Significance of Congregation
In Jainism, the concept of Congregation encompasses various meanings, including a collective of beings such as gods and asuras united for a purpose, and specific assemblies for spiritual or communal interactions. It highlights the origin of divine beings like the Yaksha and emphasizes the significance of unity among followers. Similarly, Tibetan Buddhism and Theravada traditions also define Congregation as gatherings for spiritual learning and sharing experiences, showcasing its importance across different religious contexts.
Synonyms: Assembly, Gathering, Community, Fellowship, Group, Religious assembly, Audience, Assembly., Crowd
In Dutch: Gemeente; In Finnish: Seurakunta; In Spanish: Congregación
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Congregation'
In Buddhism, "Congregation" signifies a collective of individuals who gather to share experiences, learn from spiritual leaders like the Bodhisatta, and participate in teachings, emphasizing communal growth and understanding.
From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) The collective group of individuals who gather to learn from the Bodhisatta and engage in spiritual teachings.[1] (2) The group of listeners who gather to hear the discourse of the Elders, illustrating the communal aspect of religious teachings and the flow of knowledge.[2]
From: Blue Annals (deb-ther sngon-po)
(1) Gatherings that Staglungpa attended when the Teacher ‘phags pa visited.[3]
From: The Fo-Sho-Hing-Tsan-King (A Life of Buddha)
(1) A gathering of individuals who come together to hear Buddha’s teachings and offerings.[4]
Jain concept of 'Congregation'
In Jainism, Congregation signifies a spiritual assembly uniting followers, including divine beings like gods and asuras, emphasizing community formation, collective purpose, and the origins of figures such as the Yaksha Parshva in a shared spiritual context.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) A gathering of individuals for religious worship or community activities.[5] (2) The gathering of individuals, including monks, nuns, gods, and ordinary people, for a shared spiritual purpose.[6] (3) The gathering or assembly from which the Yaksha Gandharva and goddess Bala originated, indicating a communal or sacred context.[7] (4) The collective from which the deity Patala originated.[8] (5) A gathering that the Lokantika-gods urge Ghanaratha to establish, indicating a formation of a spiritual or communal body.[9]