Significance of Deep sleep
Deep sleep is described across various spiritual and philosophical contexts. In Buddhism, it signifies a state of unconsciousness similar to deep meditation, while Jainism views it as an intensified sleep that alleviates fatigue and symbolizes death. Tibetan Buddhism associates deep sleep with the absence of self-awareness, contrastingly, Vaishnavism presents it as an unconscious state reflecting tranquility. Ayurvedic teachings emphasize its restorative functions, crucial for health. Overall, deep sleep is portrayed as a period of reduced awareness essential for both physical and spiritual rejuvenation.
Synonyms: Sound sleep, Deep slumber, Restorative sleep, Profound sleep, Rem sleep, Slumber, Hibernation, Coma, Trance, Rest
In Dutch: Diepe slaap; In Finnish: Syvä uni; In Spanish: Sueño profundo; In German: Tiefschlaf; In Malay: Tidur nyenyak; In Swedish: Djup sömn; In French: Sommeil profond; In Italian: Sonno profondo; In Portugese: Sono profundo; In Polish: Głęboki sen
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Deep sleep'
Deep sleep in Buddhism is interpreted as a state of unconsciousness without self-awareness, similar to deep meditation, where one is profoundly restful and unaware of surroundings yet may retain some basic sensory awareness.
From: Tattvasangraha [with commentary]
(1) A state of unconsciousness wherein I-consciousness is not experienced, illustrating the occasional nature of self-awareness.[1]
From: Shurangama Sutra (with commentary) (English)
(1) A state of profound rest where the individual may be entirely unaware of their surroundings or sensory experiences yet still retains some level of awareness in their hearing-nature.[2]
From: The Great Chariot
(1) Deep sleep is a state of unconsciousness akin to being in a deep meditative state without active awareness or thought.[3]
Hindu concept of 'Deep sleep'
Deep sleep in Hinduism, or Sushupti, represents a state of consciousness where individual souls merge with Brahman, characterized by a lack of awareness and a temporary absence of sensory experiences, revealing the need for self-realization and understanding.
From: Mandukya Upanishad (Gaudapa Karika and Shankara Bhashya)
(1) Deep sleep is associated with Prajna, which is what Prana means, along with Bijatma, the causal self, as described in the provided information.[4] (2) Deep sleep is a state where the mind does not apprehend objects, and in the causal world, this state is known as beginningless ignorance or Nidra.[5] (3) It is the state in which one's mental activities are controlled, and duality is not perceived.[6] (4) It is a state where all diversities of waking and dream states merge, which shows Pure Consciousness in a marked degree.[7] (5) Consciousness cannot be dissociated from the state of this.[8]
From: Brahma Sutras (Shankaracharya)
(1) The question is as to the nature of the highest Brahman in which the individual soul is merged in the state of deep sleep, according to Shankara.[9] (2) Deep sleep is the state in which the individual soul becomes united with Brahman, following the cessation of limiting adjuncts, according to the text.[10] (3) Deep sleep is referenced alongside the waking state as a point of connection with the intermediate place, where the place of waking and the place of bliss, or deep sleep, join together, and this connection helps define the location of the intermediate place.[11] (4) This is a state where the individual soul, seeking an inner refuge, transcends its perceived connection with both the physical and subtle bodies, ultimately reaching the highest light, as presented in the provided text.[12] (5) This refers to a state of unconsciousness, where the soul is potentially connected with the buddhi, as mentioned in the text.[13]
From: Brahma Sutras (Ramanuja)
(1) It is a state in which the consciousness of an intelligent being is not perceived.[14] (2) A metaphorical state mentioned in the text to illustrate the concept of the universe existing in an undifferentiated form.[15] (3) A stage of sleep that is characterized by complete unconsciousness, where the sleeping soul resides in a unified state.[16] (4) A state in which individual souls unite with the True, yet remain uninformed of their unity, illustrating the connection between consciousness and ultimate reality.[17] (5) A state in which the soul frees itself from all limiting adjuncts, uniting with Brahman, and is no longer connected with its previous body or organs.[18]
From: Brahma Sutras (Shankara Bhashya)
(1) The state where the selfsame soul returns from Brahman, serving as a reference point for the analysis of the soul's journey and its re-emergence, as discussed in the text.[19] (2) A state in which the Atman experiences bliss when it ceases its actions and connections with the Upadhis.[20] (3) A state (Sushupti) in which the individual soul does not exhibit intelligence, but this does not indicate a loss of its inherent intelligence.[21] (4) A state characterized by the absence of cognitive activity, referenced within the context of the different states of existence the released soul can experience.[22] (5) A state of consciousness characterized by a lack of awareness and absence of dreams, analyzed in the context of the soul.[23]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad Bhashya Vartika
(1) A state of consciousness where the mind is absent and one is not aware of anything.[24] (2) A state of consciousness characterized by a lack of awareness and understanding, where the Self does not identify with external stimuli.[25] (3) A state of consciousness where the Self experiences the Witness-self, characterized by the absence of sensory perception and the presence of a profound sense of being.[26] (4) A state characterized by non-perception of everything and absence of mental preoccupation.[27] (5) A state of consciousness where cognition does not occur for objects that may be present in waking and dream states.[28]
From: Chandogya Upanishad (english Translation)
(1) A state of consciousness where individual identities are temporarily suspended, allowing a connection to the Cosmic Self.[29] (2) A metaphor for death for those who are ignorant, implying that true liberation is not achieved.[30] (3) A state when the self is sleeping, with all its organs inactive, free from worry, and devoid of dreams.[31] (4) Contrasted with Self-knowledge, indicating a state of unconsciousness that is not conducive to spiritual growth.[32] (5) A state of rest where the self is not able to recognize its own identity as in wakefulness.[33]
From: Mandukya Upanishad (Madhva commentary)
(1) Vishva and other aspects separate and unite in this state with Prajna. This is a state of consciousness.[34] (2) The state of consciousness where the individual experiences a lack of awareness of external or internal environments.[35] (3) A state of total ignorance where no perception occurs; it is considered the focal point of inversion from which the other states arise.[36] (4) A state where the soul is conscious of its own existence, Time, and Avidya or joy, but in which Prajna shows nothing to the soul except joy.[37] (5) A state of unconsciousness from which the Vishva separates, allowing for the transition to waking state.[38]
From: Chandogya Upanishad (Shankara Bhashya)
(1) A state of consciousness where beings are unaware of their separation from Being, akin to forgetting their individual identification.[39] (2) A state of profound rest where the Self does not engage in knowledge or awareness.[40] (3) A state of consciousness where one experiences mere existence without objectification, which parallels the time in the beginning before the universe's birth.[41] (4) A state of existence in which living beings become merged with their cause and are not destroyed.[42] (5) The state of consciousness associated with the inner Akasha, characterized by the absence of desires and dreams.[43]
From: Mandukya Upanishad
(1) A state in which consciousness is not aware of any experience, yet still part of the overall consciousness narrative.[44] (2) A state where the mind is laid low and completely controlled, indicating a lack of functioning.[45] (3) Deep sleep, described as Prajna, refers to a state of dreamless sleep where consciousness is undivided and not differentiated by sensory experiences.[46] (4) A state of mind that is different from waking consciousness, where the mind is described as unconscious and ignorant of perceptions.[47] (5) One of the states of consciousness, alongside waking and dreaming, that are experienced in human life.[48]
From: Kaivalya Upanishad
(1) One of the three states of being in which the jiva exists, along with waking and dreaming, representing a form of unawareness or dissolution of identity.[49] (2) A state when everything is absorbed into their causal state, during which the jiva is free from attributes like delusion and desires, experiencing apparent bliss.[50]
From: Vivekachudamani
(1) A state of unconsciousness where the mind is not engaged in thought or perception.[51] (2) A state of unconsciousness where the universe may not be perceived, implying a distinction between reality and unreality.[52]
From: Kathopanishad (Madhva commentary)
(1) A state of obscured consciousness where the Jiva is not aware, in contrast to the Supreme Brahman who remains conscious.[53]
From: Kena upanishad (Madhva commentary)
(1) A state of consciousness where cognition ceases and understanding is not present, contrasting the active understanding sought in pratibodham.[54]
From: Ashtavakra Gita
(1) The wise man who is contented in all circumstances is not asleep even in deep sleep, not sleeping in a dream, nor waking when he is awake.[55]
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) A state of rest characterized by reduced consciousness and heightened inward focus.[56] (2) A state of rest that Sikhidvaja experienced after his evening services, symbolizing peace away from worldly concerns.[57] (3) A state where intellect is inactive, resulting in the absence of conscious experience and perception of reality.[58] (4) A state representing the collective peace and homogeneity of the world during Prahlada's profound meditation.[59] (5) The state before creation when the mind of Brahma was in a dormant condition.[60]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) A state of being in embodied beings, with waking, dream and Turiya. States change when there is another body.[61] (2) A state in which Bhagavan Narayana was lying on the ocean after destroying the Universe.[62] (3) The state of Sushupti, in which Shiva is the Lord of all causal bodies and creator of Vishnu.[63] (4) Refers to the state in which Vishnu was found by the Devas, indicating His exhaustion after a long battle.[64] (5) A prolonged period of unconsciousness or dormancy, in this context referring to the state of the six sons due to the curse before their births.[65]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Shastri)
(1) It describes the state from which the speaker's elder brother was roused by formidable cries, prompting him to confront a powerful titan.[66] (2) States the condition of King Nimi at the moment Vasishtha's curse was pronounced, illustrating vulnerability and unawareness of the unfolding events.[67] (3) A state of undisturbed restful slumber that Rama enters despite the hardships he faces.[68]
From: Laghu-yoga-vasistha
(1) Refers to Sushupti, which is the fifth stage of spiritual development, filled with one uniform bliss alone.[69] (2) A profoundly restful state where conscious awareness is significantly diminished.[70]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) The state that Satyavan fell into while hewing wood in the forest, ultimately leading to the circumstances that made him vulnerable to Yama's approach.[71]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Griffith)
(1) Kaushalya and Sumitra, worn with weeping, were in a deep sleep, unaware of the unfolding events, symbolizing their vulnerability and detachment from the present moment.[72]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) During this state, the living entity and the Supreme Brahman remain different, and it is improper to say that a liberated soul becomes the Supreme Brahman, and the living entity does not possess the quality of omniscience.[73] (2) A state of unconsciousness where individuals lose awareness and do not react to stimuli, induced by Nidradevi.[74] (3) A state of unconsciousness where living entities may be bereft of awareness of Krishna and His service.[75] (4) Refers to a profound state of sleep characterized by a lack of awareness and responsiveness.[76]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) A state of unconsciousness or rest, similar to the experience described by the term 'sushuptih', which creates a void and hinders one's perception.[77] (2) A state in which one is free from mental perturbation and is not agitated by dreams, leading to a presupposed sense of happiness.[78]
From: Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu
(1) A state of mind that reflects a blank or unconscious feeling Radha experiences, akin to rest and tranquility amidst her turmoil.[79]
From: Prem Sagar (English translation)
(1) The condition of the children and calves when Brahma lifted the stone from the cave.[80]
From: Yoga-sutras (with Vyasa and Vachaspati Mishra)
(1) A condition characterized by a particular type of mental modification that involves complete inactivity of the mind.[81] (2) A condition of the mind linked to the forgetful state, where awareness is diminished due to excess inertia.[82] (3) Deep Sleep is a state of consciousness where the mind is inactive and not cognizing external stimuli or internal thoughts.[83] (4) Deep sleep is identified as a state of consciousness that represents a modification where awareness and perception are absent.[84]
From: Yoga-sutras (Vedanta Commentaries)
(1) A state of sleep where the mind is calm, allowing a sense of peaceful happiness upon awakening.[85]
From: International Research Journal of Ayurveda and Yoga
(1) Deep sleep, also known as Supti, is defined in Ratnavali as a classification of Nindra in Ayurveda classics.[86] (2) The restorative benefits of this, particularly for the prefrontal cortex, support executive functions.[87] (3) A state that yoga poses can increase, leading to better sleep quality for individuals.[88]
From: Journal of Ayurveda and Integrated Medical Sciences
(1) Deep sleep (N3) is considered restorative, as it reduces sympathetic activity, resulting in lower heart rate, blood pressure, and stable breathing, as mentioned in the text.[89] (2) Deep Sleep is a stage of sleep where important restorative functions occur, including the release of growth hormones for healing and growth, which aids in cell repair and new cell growth.[90]
From: Journal of Ayurvedic and Herbal Medicine
(1) A stage of sleep, and this is seen in stage N3 of the sleep pattern, according to the provided text.[91]
From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)
(1) The state induced in house inmates by the use of the 'Hand of Glory', rendering them unconscious during a burglary.[92]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) A metaphor used to illustrate a state of existence where there is a lack of consciousness or awareness, analogous to the undifferentiated world.[93]
From: Rasa Jala Nidhi, vol 4: Iatrochemistry
(1) A symptom associated with fever due to an excess of the three doshas, indicating severe lethargy or unconsciousness.[94]
From: Padarthadharmasamgraha and Nyayakandali
(1) A metaphor used to describe the state of cessation of experiences and perceptions during the cycle of Brahma's time.[95]
From: Shakti and Shakta
(1) Deep sleep (Sushupti) is a state where all is one, as experienced, according to the Taoist master Ki, symbolizing the celestial harmony of all beings in their common Being.[96]
Jain concept of 'Deep sleep'
In Jainism, Deep sleep symbolizes both a type of karma destroyable in spiritual development and a metaphor for ignorance and suffering, transforming into a state of heightened sleep aimed at cleansing and rejuvenation.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) Refers to the delusion of the world, which a sermon resembling the sun could dispel.[97] (2) A metaphorical state for death, expressing a wish for the end of suffering.[98] (3) A metaphor describing ignorance or delusion, representing mental and spiritual unawareness in the world.[99]
From: Tattvartha Sutra (with commentary)
(1) One of the sixteen subtypes of karmas that can be destroyed in the ninth stage of spiritual development.[100] (2) An intensified form of sleep referred to as nidra-nidra, which is intended to remove effects of fatigue and intoxication.[101]
From: Kalpa-sutra (Lives of the Jinas)
(1) The state Devananda and Trishala were placed into during the embryo transfer.[102]
The concept of Deep sleep in local and regional sources
Deep sleep is a crucial state of unconsciousness desired for rest and renewal, contrasting the troubled experiences of other characters and reflecting health issues, as seen in Rajyam, while not leading to personal transformation.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) The memory of having seen nothing in this state is based upon intuitive experience.[103] (2) A restful state recovered by Motilal after discarding the lottery ticket and relinquishing his anxiety.[104] (3) The state of Sarada and Babu, contrasting with Sundar's troubled night.[105] (4) A state of unconsciousness that is sought after by all beings for rest and renewal.[106] (5) A state experienced by Rajyam indicating her poor health and the need for recovery, contrasted with her previous vitality.[107]
From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda
(1) It is a state beneath consciousness, where the body functions without the feeling of ego, and it does not result in enlightenment, as the person remains the same.[108]
The concept of Deep sleep in scientific sources
Deep sleep signifies a restorative sleep state essential for health, associated with oil baths, NREM stages 3 and 4, reduced physiological activity, and a notable symptom in certain medical conditions, including bedwetting.
From: International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health (MDPI)
(1) Refers to a state during which "delta" waves are mostly observed and is believed to be involved in memory consolidation and physical restoration.[109] (2) Sleep time and "deep sleep" were tracked with a wearable device, and the time spent in deep sleep fluctuated, but was likely a contributory factor to the stable performance over the 10 days.[110] (3) Deep sleep, also known as stage N 3 sleep, is the deepest stage of sleep, and increased stage N 3 duration was found, except for the CDKL 5 mutant cases.[111] (4) "Deep sleep" maintains learning efficiency of the human brain, highlighting the importance of sleep for cognitive function.[112] (5) Deep sleep, also known as stage S 3, is characterized by significantly reduced brain function, and it is a crucial phase of sleep that is identified through polysomnography.[113]
From: Sustainability Journal (MDPI)
(1) Deep sleep is a state where a device can save much more energy by maintaining a power down state of all ICs in a device for the scheduled duration.[114]
From: South African Family Practice
(1) Poor sleep quality, especially during deep sleep (stages 3 & 4 of sleep), with frequent arousals due to hypoxia or hypercarbia causes hypersomnolence.[115] (2) Also known as stages 3 and 4 of sleep, this is a crucial phase for physical restoration, and it is often disrupted in individuals with obstructive sleep apnoea due to hypoxia or hypercarbia.[116] (3) This is also known as slow-wave sleep and is stages 3 and 4 of NREM sleep, which are a prerequisite for feeling refreshed upon awakening, according to the article.[117]
Classical concept of 'Deep sleep'
From: The Odyssey of Homer (English translation)
(1) Deep sleep takes hold of Ulysses after recounting his adventures, providing him with much-needed rest and symbolizing the end of his long journey and suffering.[118] (2) By this time Ulysses' "deep sleep" had left him, and he turned back to the ship and to the sea shore.[119] (3) A deep sleep took hold upon the Cyclops after he drank the wine, causing him to reel and fall sprawling face upwards on the ground, making him vulnerable.[120] (4) The deep sleep Ulysses fell into was sent by heaven, allowing him to rest and recover after his arduous journey to the island.[121]
From: The Authoress of the Odyssey
(1) A deep sleep is induced by Minerva on Penelope, during which she is endowed with dazzling beauty and a statelier presence before seeing the suitors.[122] (2) The deep sleep, akin to death, overtakes Ulysses on the ship provided by the Phaeacians, allowing for a swift journey to Ithaca while he remains unconscious.[123]
From: The Iliad of Homer (English translation)
(1) A state that the slayer of Argus threw those who were on guard into, when they reached the trench and the wall that was before the ships.[124]
From: The History of Herodotus
(1) When the Magian was in deep sleep, Phaidyme felt his ears and discovered he had none, confirming he was not Smerdis the son of Cyrus and informing her father.[125]