Significance of Deathless
Deathless, in various philosophical and religious contexts, signifies the ultimate state of liberation that transcends birth and rebirth. In Buddhism, it specifically refers to nibbana, the ultimate goal of spiritual practice, representing a condition free from suffering and the cycle of existence. Different schools, including Theravada and Mahayana, highlight Deathless as a state achieved through enlightenment, where one experiences eternal existence and liberation from physical death. This concept underscores the aspiration for spiritual attainment beyond worldly limitations.
Synonyms: Immortal, Everlasting, Eternal, Undying, Ageless, Unending, Imperishable, Indestructible
In Dutch: Onsterfelijk; In Finnish: Kuolematon; In Spanish: Inmortal; In German: Unsterblich; In French: Immortel; In Portugese: Imortal; In Italian: Immortale; In Polish: Nieśmiertelny
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Deathless'
In Buddhism, "Deathless" signifies a state of spiritual liberation, known as Nibbana, transcending birth, death, and suffering. It embodies the ultimate goal of enlightenment accessible through mindfulness and personal effort.
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) Deathless is reached by the true brahmin, according to the provided material, and this state eliminates clingings and doubts.[1] (2) A state of liberation and immortality that can only be experienced through one’s own efforts and is the ultimate goal of higher life.[2] (3) An attainment in Buddhist teachings representing liberation from the cycle of birth and death, often associated with Nirvana.[3] (4) A term signifying the eternal state of Nibbana, which a diligent monk can attain.[4] (5) Deathless refers to the state of eternal existence beyond the cycle of birth and death, achievable through Nibbana.[5]
From: Visuddhimagga (the pah of purification)
(1) Referring to the ultimate goal in Buddhism, Nibbana, which transcends the limitations of physical existence.[6] (2) A state of existence that transcends physical death, often associated with ultimate enlightenment.[7] (3) A state beyond birth and death, referred to as Nibbana, where there is an absence of suffering and cyclical existence.[8] (4) A state of existence that is beyond suffering and the cycle of rebirth, accessible through the practice of mindfulness.[9]
From: Vinaya Pitaka (3): Khandhaka
(1) Referring to the ultimate liberation and enlightenment which transcends physical life and death, embodying the realization of nibbana.[10] (2) An attainment referred to in the text, signifying a state of liberation and enlightenment beyond the cycle of birth and death.[11]
From: Abhidhamma in Daily Life
(1) Refers to nibbana, the ultimate goal of Buddhist practice, where rebirth ceases entirely.[12]
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) Refers to the spiritual attainment opened by the Buddha, which gods and men could no longer see after his parinirvana.[13] (2) A term referring to a state of spiritual liberation or enlightenment that transcends death and the cycle of rebirth.[14]
From: Mahavastu (great story)
(1) The condition of having transcended death through spiritual attainment, an essential goal for the Bodhisattva.[15]
From: Apadana commentary (Atthakatha)
(1) Referring to nibbana, the ultimate goal of Buddhist practice, which transcends the cycle of birth and rebirth.[16]
From: Hualin International Journal of Buddhist Studies
(1) The term signifies something that does not experience death, indicating a state of immortality or enduring existence, as mentioned within the provided text.[17]
Hindu concept of 'Deathless'
In Hinduism, "Deathless" signifies the eternal nature of the Self, unscathed by physical death, and highlights the infinite, timeless essence of the divine lord. It embodies the concept of immortality in spiritual existence.
From: Chandogya Upanishad (english Translation)
(1) Describes the Self as eternal, untouched by physical death.[18]
From: Prashna Upanishad with Shankara’s Commentary
(1) The term "deathless" describes the nature of the Brahman-body, which is given to the disciples, signifying its immortal and enduring quality.[19]
From: Thirty minor Upanishads
(1) Also meditate upon Me thus: 'I am birthless, deathless, ageless, immortal, self-shining, all-pervading, destructionless, causeless, pure beyond the effect of the universe and ever content.'[20]
From: Tiruvaymoli (Thiruvaimozhi): English translation
(1) The state achieved by the Devas after receiving ambrosia, highlighting their desire for immortality.[21]
The concept of Deathless in local and regional sources
Deathless signifies the eternal essence of the sun, symbolizing its infinite existence without beginning or end, reflecting concepts of immortality and perpetual life that resonate in various cultural beliefs.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) A term describing the eternal nature of the sun, implying it has no end or termination.[22]
From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda
(1) Deathless is used to describe the spirit, indicating its eternal nature, without beginning or end, which is an important part of practical religion.[23]