Significance of Defilement and purification
Defilement and purification in Shaktism are processes necessary for making ritual offerings acceptable by cleansing them of negative associations. In contrast, Mahayana Buddhism views defilement and purification in terms of understanding mental states of purity and impurity, including different trances and states of deep concentration. It also addresses the contrast between moral and spiritual integrity and the impurities present in one's thoughts and actions, emphasizing the importance of achieving mental clarity and ethical conduct.
Synonyms: Contamination, Corruption, Pollution, Cleansing, Sanctification, Restoration, Redemption, Purification
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Buddhist concept of 'Defilement and purification'
In Buddhism, defilement and purification represent opposing states of moral integrity and impurity, emphasizing the importance of understanding mental states and achieving purity through deep concentration and mindfulness.
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) Contrasting states of moral and spiritual integrity versus impurity within one's actions and mind.[1] (2) The ability to understand the states of mental purity and impurity, as well as the various trances and states of deep concentration.[2]
From: Vimalakirti Nirdesa Sutra
(1) The concepts of impurity and cleanliness that, with understanding, reveal the absence of conceit and thus lead to non-duality.[3]
From: The Perfection Of Wisdom In Eight Thousand Lines
(1) The concepts of being tainted by attachment and the process of overcoming that attachment to reach clarity.[4]
From: Abhidharmakośa
(1) Concepts addressing the states of being polluted or cleansed, both in a physical and spiritual sense.[5]
Hindu concept of 'Defilement and purification'
In Hinduism, defilement and purification involve cleansing rituals that eliminate negative associations, making offerings acceptable for worship. This process is essential in ensuring that the rituals are performed with purity and reverence.
From: Shakti and Shakta
(1) The processes believed necessary to make offerings acceptable in ritual practices, ensuring they are cleansed of negative associations.[6]