Significance of Dependence

Dependence, in various contexts, encompasses the concept of reliance on others for existence or support. In Tibetan Buddhism, it denotes a state where one thing's existence is contingent upon another. The Vaisheshika perspective views dependence as an ongoing perception of reliance, distinct from inherent qualities. Historically in India, dependence pertains to individuals relying on others for physical or psychological needs, which can result in diminished autonomy and freedom. Thus, dependence highlights interconnections and the implications of reliance in different philosophical and historical frameworks.1
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Synonyms: Obligation, Attachment, Subordination, Addiction, Requirement

In Dutch: Afhankelijkheid; In Finnish: Riippuvuus; In Spanish: Dependencia; In German: Abhängigkeit

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Buddhist concept of 'Dependence'

Buddhism Books

In Buddhism, Dependence signifies the interconnection of all phenomena, emphasizing that the existence of any entity relies on others, illustrating the principle of interdependence that underpins various aspects of life and existence.

Significance in Tibetan Buddhism (Vajrayana or tantric Buddhism):
Tibetan Buddhism Books

(1) A condition where the existence or occurrence of one thing relies on another.[1]

Tibetan Buddhism includes schools such as Nyingma, Kadampa, Kagyu and Gelug. Their primary canon of literature is divided in two broad categories: The Kangyur, which consists of Buddha’s words, and the Tengyur, which includes commentaries from various sources. Esotericism and tantra techniques (vajrayana) are collected indepently.

Hindu concept of 'Dependence'

Hinduism Books

In Hinduism, Dependence signifies a consistent reliance on external entities, contrasting with the concept of inherence, where qualities or attributes are contained within a thing itself. This highlights the relational aspect of existence.

Significance in Vaisheshika (school of philosophy):
Vaisheshika Books

(1) A perception that a thing is consistently relying on something else, distinct from inherence.[2]

Vaisheshika refers to a school of orthodox Hindu philosophy (astika), drawing its subject-matter from the Upanishads. Vaisheshika deals with subjects such as logic, epistemology, philosophy and expounds concepts similar to Buddhism in nature

Significance in Purana and Itihasa (epic history):
Purana Books

(1) This is one of the eighteen faults, which have not yet been enumerated by me, and should be avoided by a wise man.[3]

The Purana refers to Sanskrit literature preserving ancient India’s vast cultural history, including historical legends, religious ceremonies, various arts and sciences. The eighteen mahapuranas total over 400,000 shlokas (metrical couplets) and date to at least several centuries BCE.