Significance of Continuity of existence
Continuity of existence encompasses various interpretations across disciplines. In Tibetan Buddhism, it signifies an uninterrupted state of being, allowing entities to persist through time. The Purana emphasizes a perception of unchanged existence amid constant change. Vyakarana views it as reliant on external support, while Theravada highlights the continuous link of consciousness throughout cycles of rebirth until achieving Arahantship. Historically, India sees it as the principle underlying both subjective and physical Time, reinforcing the concept of an unbroken existence.
Synonyms: Perpetuity, Persistence, Endurance, Survival, Longevity, Continuity
In Dutch: Continuïteit van bestaan; In Finnish: Olemassaolon jatkuvuus; In Spanish: Continuidad de la existencia; In German: Kontinuität der Existenz
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Continuity of existence'
Continuity of existence in Buddhism signifies the perpetual state of being of entities, emphasizing the unbroken flow of consciousness and life experiences across cycles of rebirth, ultimately leading to the realization of Arahantship.
From: Tattvasangraha [with commentary]
(1) The concept that entails the uninterrupted existence of the Entity, contrasting with the states that lack this continuity due to their emergence and destruction.[1] (2) A concept indicating the ongoing status of an entity that allows it to persist over time.[2] (3) The notion that there is an uninterrupted and ongoing state of being for any entity or phenomenon.[3]
From: Patthanuddesa Dipani
(1) The unbroken link of consciousness and life experiences throughout the cycles of rebirth and existence until the attainment of Arahantship.[4]
Hindu concept of 'Continuity of existence'
Continuity of existence in Hinduism implies that, despite perpetual change, the world and its beings appear stable, relying on external support and conditions for their ongoing existence and functioning in the cosmic cycle.
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) The belief that the world and beings within it appear to remain unchanged amid constant cycles of change.[5]
From: Vakyapadiya of Bhartrihari
(1) The ongoing state of being that requires support and conditions from outside sources.[6]
From: Brahma Sutras (Shankaracharya)
(1) The ongoing cycle of life, death, and rebirth, influenced by the actions of individuals across different lifetimes.[7]
The concept of Continuity of existence in local and regional sources
Continuity of existence signifies the uninterrupted essence of reality, shaping subjective and physical perceptions of time, indicating that existence persists consistently without interruption, thus forming a core principle in understanding time and reality.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) The fundamental principle that underlies both subjective and physical Time, emphasizing the unbroken nature of existence.[8]
The concept of Continuity of existence in scientific sources
Continuity of existence, in this context, signifies the state achieved by rulers in the underworld via funerary rites. This ensures benefits for the living and elevated status beyond ordinary spirits.
From: Religions Journal (MDPI)
(1) The state ensured for rulers in the underworld through funerary treatment, with the expectation of some sort of benefit for the living and a higher status than normal dead ghosts.[9]
Classical concept of 'Continuity of existence'
From: Ancient Egypt the Light of the World
(1) Everywhere it is the reappearing spirits of the dead, and they alone, who can demonstrate a continuity of existence for the living, illustrating a belief in the afterlife.[10]