Significance of Enlightenment
Synonyms: Illumination, Awakening, Insight, Awareness, Understanding, Education, Knowledge, Clarification, Wisdom
In Dutch: Verlichting; In Finnish: Valaistuminen; In Spanish: Ilustración; In German: Aufklärung; In Malay: Pencerahan; In Swedish: Upplysning; In French: Éclaircissement; In Italian: Illuminismo; In Portugese: Iluminação; In Polish: Oświecenie
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Enlightenment'
From: Shurangama Sutra (with commentary) (English)
(1) "Enlightenment" is mentioned in the context of a mutual response, which occurs when one is about to attain it but has not yet done so, and this response is something that one can only cherish in their heart.[1] (2) "Enlightenment" is replete with wisdom and intelligence when protected, allowing individuals to return to the Buddha's light of compassion, with joining with the life-breath of the Buddha being a kind of enlightenment.[2] (3) It is dangerous to help others without achieving it oneself. It is required to teach others and avoid being influenced by the world.[3] (4) A state of realization regarding the true nature of reality, which can be achieved through various experiences.[4] (5) The state of understanding one's true nature, which is inherently bright, and free from the confusions caused by ignorance.[5]
From: Mahayana Mahaparinirvana Sutra
(1) Enlightenment is like gaining the further shore of unsurpassed understanding by riding the ship of creation with the favorable wind of Mahaparinirvana, avoiding the cycle of births, deaths, and hellish realms.[6] (2) Many Bodhisattvas in the congregation have aspired to unsurpassed versions of this in one life or over many lives.[7] (3) The ultimate goal of the Buddhist path, attained by doing away with ignorance, and also, the state of unsurpassed Enlightenment that can be attained by those who practice the Great Nirvana Sutra, and the burning flame of unsurpassed Enlightenment.[8] (4) Enlightenment is a concept that is linked to the 37 elements, and these elements are assisting towards this, and pure action is associated with them.[9] (5) The state of being that is attained by well practicing the Way, and is the result of any good cause, and is the goal of Sunaksatra's practice in the Sangha.[10]
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) Enlightenment, specifically supreme and perfect enlightenment (anuttarasamyaksambodhi), is presented as attainable through the practice and cultivation of effort.[11] (2) refers to a sudden attainment when the head touched the pillow, signifying a breakthrough.[12] (3) Enlightenment is the ultimate attainment of the bodhisattva, marked by entering the eighth bodhisattva bhumi, the Acala.[13] (4) The enlightenment has auxiliaries (bodhipakshya) in the four kinds of purifications, from which the arhats and pratyekabuddhas have received a great deal from the bodhisattva.[14] (5) The state of perfect knowledge and understanding that Shakyamuni sought through countless offerings to the Buddhas in previous existences to liberate beings.[15]
From: Bodhisattvacharyavatara
(1) The text refers to the desire to attain 'enlightenment', indicating that this is a primary goal for those who follow the teachings of the Buddha.[16] (2) The text discusses reaching enlightenment, either through aspiring to reach it or through engaging in conduct related to it.[17] (3) The ultimate spiritual goal that is attainable through the development of bodhicitta and the practice of the Bodhisattva-caryavatara.[18] (4) The state of having completely realized buddha nature, free from suffering and ignorance.[19] (5) A state of realization and liberation from suffering; the ultimate goal in Buddhism.[20]
From: Mahavastu (great story)
(1) Enlightenment is the ultimate goal that the speaker made a vow to acquire, suggesting a state of profound understanding and liberation from suffering.[21] (2) The ultimate goal of Buddhist practice; represents a state of profound understanding and liberation from suffering.[22] (3) The ultimate realization and understanding sought in spiritual practice, leading to liberation.[23] (4) The state of gaining profound knowledge and understanding, achieved by the Buddha after seven days of meditation.[24] (5) The state of awakening achieved through the profound understanding of dharma, which the Exalted One embodies.[25]
From: The Perfection Of Wisdom In Eight Thousand Lines
(1) "Enlightenment" is not achieved by focusing on signs or visions; instead, it is attained by turning towards the signless, indicating a shift in perception and understanding.[26] (2) The ultimate goal attainable by bodhisattvas who have cultivated wisdom and merit, free from hindrances and failures.[27] (3) The state of understanding that provides a unifying principle for all six perfections when they are illuminated by all-knowledge.[28] (4) The ultimate state of spiritual insight and understanding that practitioners aim to achieve through the Perfection of Wisdom.[29]
From: The 6th Patriarch Platform Sutra
(1) The state of being awakened to the reality of one's mind and the nature of existence.[30] (2) The realization and understanding of one's true nature and the nature of all phenomena.[31] (3) The ultimate goal in Buddhism, represented by the realization of the Essence of Mind.[32]
From: Vimalakirti Nirdesa Sutra
(1) The realization of ultimate reality, characterized by the absence of duality, free from all discriminative constructions and mental agitations.[33] (2) The state of realizing ultimate truth and achieving profound understanding of existence.[34]
From: The gods of northern Buddhism
(1) The ultimate goal in Buddhism, representing the cessation of suffering and realization of true knowledge.[35]
From: Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva (Sutra of the Great Vow)
(1) The ultimate spiritual goal in Buddhism, where one achieves a profound understanding of reality and liberation from suffering.[36]
From: Vimalakirti Nirdesa Sutra
(1) The state of supreme wisdom and liberation achieved through understanding the nature of reality.[37]
From: Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva fundamental vow sutra
(1) The ultimate spiritual goal in Buddhism that involves liberation from suffering and attainment of higher wisdom.[38]
From: Lotus Sutra (Saddharma-Pundarika)
(1) Enlightenment, according to the text, represents the ultimate goal of spiritual practice, signifying the attainment of supreme knowledge, wisdom, and liberation from suffering, enabling one to understand the true nature of reality.[39]
From: Lankavatara Sutra
(1) Enlightenment is a state that those who cherish great compassion and discipline themselves at the stages of Bodhisattvahood will quickly be awakened in.[40]
From: Maha Buddhavamsa—The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) According to the text, the Buddha attained Enlightenment and subsequently stayed near the bank of the Neranjara river in Uruvelia forest.[41] (2) It is the state of perfect understanding and wisdom, often sought after by aspirants through various practices, including generosity.[42] (3) The Bodhisatta accumulates the requisites of this by way of good physical, verbal and mental actions, striving thoroughly and with constant perseverance.[43] (4) On this day, the Buddha, after eating the milk-rice offered by Sujata, had the strength to dwell in the attainment of concentration.[44] (5) This signifies the full-moon day when Bodhisatta Sikhi achieved Buddhahood, marking the culmination of his spiritual journey and the beginning of his teachings.[45]
From: Introducing Buddhist Abhidhamma
(1) The ultimate realization and understanding achieved by the Buddha, transcending the cycles of birth and death.[46] (2) The state of gaining insight and understanding, notably when the Buddha acquired the Abhidhamma after his own Enlightenment.[47] (3) The profound insight and realization attained by the Buddha, recognizing the nature of reality.[48]
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) The moment when there arises perfected knowledge of this ultimate truth which we may call the truly-so, or seeing-Dhammas-as-they-really-are, so that there is a thread of truth joining together all stages of the Buddhist way.[49] (2) The ultimate goal of Buddhist practice, which involves understanding the nature of suffering and transcending it.[50]
From: Cetasikas
(1) Enlightenment is a state of being where one is less inclined to brood over the past, and when one has not attained this state, one may be often inclined to brood over the past.[51] (2) The ultimate goal in Buddhism, characterized by the eradication of defilements and understanding of true reality.[52]
From: A Discourse on Paticcasamuppada
(1) Enlightenment was attained by the bodhisatta when he reflected deeply on the nature of existence using dependent origination.[53] (2) The state of attaining profound understanding and insight, particularly in relation to the Four Noble Truths, exemplified by the Buddha.[54]
From: Patipada (path of practice)
(1) A concept that some people say is influenced so that it is not able to bring forth its flower and fruit fully to those who practise the way, and is not to be found in the “well taught” Dhamma.[55] (2) The ultimate goal in Buddhism, representing a profound realization of truth and liberation from the cycle of rebirth.[56]
From: Guide to Tipitaka
(1) Enlightenment is a central theme in the Buddha's teachings, particularly within the Infinite Life Sutra, and is a key goal in the Mahayana School.[57] (2) The state of profound wisdom and understanding, achieved through spiritual practice and the realization of truth.[58]
From: Abhidhamma in Daily Life (by Ashin Janakabhivamsa)
(1) The ultimate state of awakening or realization, freeing an individual from the cycle of birth and suffering.[59]
From: Visuddhimagga (the pah of purification)
(1) The ultimate spiritual goal in Buddhism, characterized by the realization of truth and liberation from the cycle of rebirth.[60]
From: The Great Chariot
(1) Enlightenment is reached by those not blocked from the understanding that dharmas are illusion, allowing them to go to the heart of it.[61] (2) The nature of compassion serves as the cause of enlightenment, suggesting that cultivating compassion is essential for achieving spiritual awakening and understanding.[62] (3) "Enlightenment" is the ultimate goal, attained through various paths and stages, with the time required varying based on individual powers and practices.[63] (4) The ultimate goal, it is aspired to by all beings, especially those who are established on the path of liberation and have emptied the three lower realms.[64] (5) Enlightenment is something that those who abide in discouragement and depression can establish with industrious effort, according to the provided text.[65]
From: Hualin International Journal of Buddhist Studies
(1) The division between the ‘Upper’ and ‘Lower’ halls is based on the level of enlightenment of the Buddhist pantheon, with the Upper Hall reserved for those considered ‘more enlightened’.[66] (2) This is the ultimate goal in Zen Buddhism, representing a state of profound insight and understanding, often associated with liberation from suffering.[67] (3) This can only be attained through an individual’s complete understanding and acceptance of reality, and it relies exclusively on human rationality and self-discipline.[68]
From: Apadana commentary (Atthakatha)
(1) It is referred to as bodhi, individually, in between the appearances of Buddhas. They accordingly penetrated this with visualisation, each for himself.[69] (2) Also referred to as 'bodhi'. The text discusses the maturity of enlightenment and how certain deeds make it mature.[70]
From: Blue Annals (deb-ther sngon-po)
(1) The ultimate goal of spiritual practice, involving the attainment of wisdom and liberation from suffering, is called Enlightenment.[71] (2) It is towards which the Mental Creative Effort is directed, with vows taken at the time of its manifestation.[72] (3) The Dharmasvamin’s mind did not move away from the combined state of the two forms of Enlightenment, indicating his focus.[73] (4) This refers to a state of spiritual awakening, and the text mentions the cause, path, and effect of enlightenment, and it is the ultimate goal of the teachings.[74] (5) The ultimate goal of spiritual practice in Buddhism, which grags pa seng ge aimed to achieve through his various teachings and practices.[75]
Hindu concept of 'Enlightenment'
From: Bhagavad-gita Mahatmya
(1) The attained knowledge leading to liberation, emphasized as achievable through the study and recitation of sacred texts.[76]
From: Chandogya Upanishad (english Translation)
(1) The state of realization in which an individual perceives their true Self and attains freedom from ignorance.[77] (2) The state of gaining profound knowledge and clarity achieved through understanding spiritual teachings.[78]
From: Brihadaranyaka Upanishad
(1) A state of knowledge where the individual recognizes the Self's identity with Brahman, dissolving illusions of separation and the need for material rites.[79]
From: Mandukya Upanishad (Gaudapa Karika and Shankara Bhashya)
(1) The state of realization where distinctions are understood to be non-different from Brahman, leading to the comprehension of the non-duality of existence.[80]
From: Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu
(1) This occurs following the appearance of knowledge and the removal of ignorance. This process consists of realizing one's identity, which results in the destruction of suffering.[81] (2) The state of having knowledge or understanding that brings clarity or wisdom, known as bodha.[82] (3) Bodha; a state of gaining deep knowledge or insight.[83]
From: Hayanaratna: The Jewel of Annual Astrology
(1) A period of intellectual and philosophical change, which characterizes Western culture.[84]
From: Parama Samhita (English translation)
(1) The state of clarity and understanding achieved through the teachings of a great sage, necessary for resolving doubts and confusion.[85]
Jain concept of 'Enlightenment'
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) Marici will attain enlightenment gradually from contact with the fire of pure meditation. This process is like a cloth purified by fire.[86] (2) The moment of realization Rama experiences when he understands the truth about his younger brother's condition.[87] (3) The state achieved by many characters who abandon false doctrines and embrace the true teachings.[88] (4) The state of attaining knowledge and liberation, often through guidance from a spiritual teacher.[89] (5) A spiritual state sought after by many characters, often associated with higher moral values and understanding.[90]
From: Uttaradhyayana Sutra
(1) The ultimate goal of a monk, representing a state of spiritual awakening and liberation.[91] (2) A state of perfect knowledge and liberation from the cycle of birth and death, central to the teachings of Buddhism and Jainism.[92]
The concept of Enlightenment in local and regional sources
From: Triveni Journal
(1) The provided block of text indicates that Isaac B. Singer came under the influence of the Enlightenment, which contributed to him ultimately becoming a secular writer.[93] (2) Enlightenment is the state achieved by the Buddha and sought by Siddhartha, representing a profound spiritual experience and understanding that transcends mere adherence to doctrines.[94] (3) Enlightenment is discussed as both an internal and external aspect of human life, with religious forces contributing to internal enlightenment and poetry potentially illuminating the path of human enlightenment in an unobtrusive manner.[95] (4) It means shedding illusions of love, attachments, hopes, and ambitions, attaining tranquility of mind and freedom from encumbrances.[96] (5) A state of gaining profound understanding or insight, often leading to a shift in perspective and a greater appreciation for the blessings and opportunities in life.[97]
From: History of Science in South Asia
(1) Enlightenment is the ultimate goal of tantric practices, which bcud len practices are designed to support through meditation and yogic training.[98]
The concept of Enlightenment in scientific sources
Enlightenment, in this context, relates to postmodern art's treatment of light. Artists flatten and color light, using it as perspective and a statement, similar to Enlightenment ideals.
From: Religions Journal (MDPI)
(1) It is a state attained by Queen C udala through contemplation, highlighting a path to spiritual realization and higher consciousness.[99] (2) It was abrupt and instantaneous, as described in detail below. For the Northern school, the way to it entirely depended on gradual meditation practice.[100] (3) Is a state of understanding and realization, particularly in Chan Buddhism, often associated with the metaphor of silent accord and the transmission of mind.[101] (4) The Enlightenment is an era where skepticism is acknowledged as a fundamental aspect, with scholars considering skepticism as a philosophical standpoint supported by sceptical theses concerning the capacity of human reason.[102] (5) The Enlightenment is a period in history during which skepticism was prevalent, as documented by Richard Popkin and also when Leibniz's work began to be received.[103]