Significance of Equanimity

Synonyms: Composure, Calmness, Serenity, Tranquility, Poise, Stability, Even-temper, Self-control, Calm, Coolness

In Dutch: Gelijkmoedigheid; In Finnish: Tasapainoisuus; In Spanish: Ecuanimidad; In German: Gleichmut; In Finnish: Tasaisuus; In Swedish: Jämnmod; In Malay: Keseimbangan; In French: Équanimité; In Portugese: Equanimidade; In Italian: Equanimità; In Polish: Spokój umysłu

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

Buddhist concept of 'Equanimity'
Buddhism Books

Significance in Theravada (major branch of Buddhism):
Theravada Books

Theravada is a major branch of Buddhism having the the Pali canon (tipitaka) as their canonical literature, which includes the vinaya-pitaka (monastic rules), the sutta-pitaka (Buddhist sermons) and the abhidhamma-pitaka (philosophy and psychology).

From: Maha Buddhavamsa—The Great Chronicle of Buddhas

(1) This is a medium attitude in mental exercise that contributes to a righteous thought process and a clear, focused mind.[1] (2) Equanimity is counted among the Ten Perfections; its profound cultivation over vast aeons is necessary for one to attain the status of an Omniscient Buddha.[2] (3) This is a state of mental balance and impartiality, maintained by the Buddha towards all beings and situations.[3] (4) Equanimity is fulfilled by being unmoved, whether helped or troubled by others, showcasing the Bodhisatta's balanced and impartial response to all situations.[4] (5) Equanimity is a mental state of balance that the parents of past existences, Nakulapitu and his wife, attained before the Buddha preached them a discourse.[5]

From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)

(1) Equanimity, or upekkha, is a factor of enlightenment that fosters a balanced and impartial perspective, free from emotional disturbance.[6] (2) Equanimity is a quality cultivated in the third jhana, where one dwells mindfully and consciously, experiencing a feeling of balance and detachment.[7] (3) According to the provided text, it is a state of mind achieved in the third and fourth absorptions, characterized by balance and mindfulness.[8]

From: Visuddhimagga (the pah of purification)

(1) Equanimity is one of the two factors present in each of the four immaterial states, contributing to their nature.[9] (2) The text mentions equanimity as a key aspect in understanding formations and their governance over various factors, especially regarding the path to liberation, suggesting that equanimity plays a crucial role in the meditative process.[10] (3) It was looked on at with equanimity by equanimity about formations was indeed precisely what should be looked on at with equanimity.[11] (4) A divine abiding characterized as neutral and impartial towards beings, promoting the aspect of neutrality and dependent on seeing equality among beings.[12] (5) A mental state of balance and calmness during the processing of sensory information, contributing to the stability of consciousness.[13]

From: Introducing Buddhist Abhidhamma

(1) The general idea is to transcend the Jhana Factors of Applied Thought, Sustained Thought, Joy and Bliss till one attains perfect one-pointedness of Mind and this.[14]

From: A Manual of Abhidhamma

(1) Upekkha is implied by tatramajjhattata, which means equanimity; the text notes that in enumerating the sublime abodes only two are mentioned.[15] (2) An impartial state of mind that remains balanced amid life's joys and sorrows, gaining strength from the non-attachment and non-aversion.[16] (3) A mental state of balance and neutrality developed in later Jhanas.[17] (4) A balanced mental state of calmness and detachment in feelings.[18] (5) A state of mental stability and composure, often characterized by indifference to pleasure and pain.[19]

From: Guide to Tipitaka

(1) A quality of mental stability and calmness highlighted in one of the stories featured in the Cariya Pitaka.[20] (2) A mental state of calmness and balance, especially in the context of resolving grudges.[21] (3) A parami embodying mental stability, balance, and peace regardless of external circumstances.[22] (4) The balance and mental state a bhikkhu should maintain in his spiritual practice.[23]

From: Abhidhamma in Daily Life (by Ashin Janakabhivamsa)

(1) A moral virtue (Brahmavihara) that represents a balanced state of mind, free from attachment and aversion.[24]

From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6

(1) A balanced mental state free from emotional disturbance, allowing one to remain unaffected by joys and sorrows.[25]

Significance in Mahayana (major branch of Buddhism):
Mahayana Books

Mahayana is a major branch of Buddhism focusing on the path of a Bodhisattva (spiritual aspirants/ enlightened beings). Extant literature is vast and primarely composed in the Sanskrit language. There are many sutras of which some of the earliest are the various Prajnaparamita sutras.

From: Abhidharmakośa

(1) Equanimity is the absence of desire and is one of the four Immeasurables, having aspects of happiness, unhappiness, joy, and beings.[26]

From: Akshayamatinirdesha [english]

(1) Equanimity is a state of mental calmness and balance, which can be developed through past practices and influences a being's response to life's ups and downs.[27] (2) The third of the boundless mental states that underpins the development of these abilities, characterized by a balanced, undisturbed mental state regardless of external circumstances or personal preferences.[28] (3) The intention of equanimity is connected to the imperishability of practice, and it is demonstrated by the bodhisattva's ability to get rid of aversion and attachment.[29] (4) A state of mental calmness and stability, especially in challenging situations, allowing for balanced and compassionate action.[30]

From: Bodhisattvacharyavatara

(1) Mahayana practitioners aspire to achieve this state, which is beyond hope and fear, rejection and expectation, aversion and attachment.[31] (2) A yogin is beyond hope and fear, having attained the view of equanimity, and he stays hidden from people, not elated if praised or depressed if blamed.[32] (3) A balanced mental state that remains undisturbed by emotions, included as one of the four immeasurables.[33]

From: Mahavastu (great story)

(1) Equanimity is the state of being calm and composed, especially in difficult situations. The Conqueror showed equanimity in prosperity and adversity to win people.[34] (2) A state of mental stability and composure, mentioned as essential for a monk on the path to nirvana.[35]

From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra

(1) Mental calmness and composure, especially in difficult situations; balanced state.[36] (2) Equanimity, known as upekshasambodhyanga, is when the bodhisattva is not attached to any dharma, does not rest there, and no longer sees them, showing mental balance.[37] (3) Equanimity (upeksha) is one of the four limitless minds that constitute the brahmaviharas, which represents a state of mental calmness and balance.[38] (4) A state of mind that involves taking hold of the character of the neither unhappy nor happy person, seeing the world as such.[39] (5) Equanimity is a sensation associated with the anagamya and dhyananantara within the anasrava concentrations, specifically involving a state of mental calmness and balance during meditation.[40]

From: Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva (Sutra of the Great Vow)

(1) This is a virtue that pervades all Dharma realms, emphasizing its importance for balanced perception and emotional stability.[41]

From: Mahayana Mahaparinirvana Sutra

(1) This is a virtue that the Bodhisattva has been full of for innumerable long kalpas past.[42] (2) Mental calmness and composure, especially in difficult situations.[43] (3) A mental state of calmness and neutrality in the face of all experiences, essential for spiritual progress.[44] (4) A mental state of calmness and composure, especially in challenging situations, promoting unbiased love for all beings.[45]

From: Vimalakirti Nirdesa Sutra

(1) The equanimity of the bodhisattva is described as what benefits both self and others, indicating a balanced and impartial state of mind.[46] (2) A balanced mental state that bodhisattvas cultivate regarding their own progress and the achievements of others.[47] (3) A state of mental and emotional stability, indicated in the context of Vimalakirti's teachings regarding the nature of perceiving reality.[48] (4) A state of mental calmness and evenness of temper, particularly in difficult situations, recognized as crucial for a bodhisattva.[49]

Significance in Buddhism (general):

From: Apadana commentary (Atthakatha)

(1) Indulging in loving kindness, equanimity, mercy, emancipation, and joy involves cultivating positive emotions and extending compassion without animosity towards the world.[50] (2) A perfection that involves being indifferent in prosperity as well as in adversity.[51] (3) Condition of being indifferent to both bliss and misery, recognizing that individual actions will manifest outcomes.[52]

From: The Great Chariot

(1) It is one of four elements that, when not producing genuine mind, is accompanied by cyclic existence's karmic formations, according to the Supreme Essence.[53] (2) A state of mental calmness and composure, especially in a difficult situation; a natural state of non-thought.[54] (3) Equanimity involves cultivating a balanced and impartial attitude toward all beings, regardless of their relationship to oneself, with the aim of reducing biases and fostering inner peace.[55] (4) It waters the mind and acts as a source, from which streams flow, refreshing those wearied by samsara.[56] (5) The final focus of meditation, practiced to address the anxiety that arises from joy, particularly when the mind is disturbed, promoting a state of detachment from desires and fostering a sense of balance and inner peace.[57]

From: Bodhinyana

(1) This is one of the Seven Factors of Enlightenment, which arises in the mind.[58] (2) The quality of maintaining mental stability and composure, especially during challenges.[59] (3) A mental state of stability and composure, especially in difficult situations.[60]

Hindu concept of 'Equanimity'
Hinduism Books

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

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.

From: Mahabharata (English)

(1) The spectators regained this after being excited with delight, and then Vibhatsu began to display his skills.[61] (2) The text uses this term in the context of behavior to emulate, contrasting it with the negative end that the deceased could have attained.[62] (3) A balanced state of mind that contributes to spiritual enlightenment, promoting a detached view of pleasure and pain.[63] (4) A state of mental and emotional stability that the goddess Bhagirathi achieved after being consoled, representing her recovery from grief.[64] (5) A state of mental calmness and composure, especially in difficult situations.[65]

From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4

(1) Equanimity is a state of evenness of the soul, experienced both in prosperity and adversity, reflecting a god-like attribute achieved through truthfulness and reliance on truth.[66] (2) Equanimity is a state of mental calmness and composure, a virtue contributing to the highest gratifications.[67] (3) Equanimity is a state that men enjoy the felicity of, and laugh to scorn at the tribulations of the world, and live uninjured under all the varying circumstances of life.[68] (4) A state of mental stability and calmness that helps overcome negative emotions.[69] (5) A balanced mental state that remains unaffected by the ups and downs of life.[70]

From: Bhagavadgita

(1) The ability to maintain a balanced and even-minded state in all circumstances.[71]

From: Garuda Purana

(1) The state of being calm and composed, which a king should maintain regardless of circumstances.[72]

From: Bhagavad-gita-rahasya (or Karma-yoga Shastra)

(1) The mental stability where one remains unaffected by the dualities of happiness and unhappiness.[73]

Significance in Vaishnavism (Vaishava dharma):
Vaishnavism Books

Vaishnava or vaishnavism (vaishnavism) represents a tradition of Hinduism worshipping Vishnu as the supreme Lord. Similar to the Shaktism and Shaivism traditions, Vaishnavism also developed as an individual movement, famous for its exposition of the dashavatara (‘ten avatars of Vishnu’).

From: Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu

(1) Mental calmness, stability, and composure, especially in difficult situations.[74]

Significance in Jyotisha (astronomy and astrology):
Jyotisha Books

Jyotisha (ज्योतिष, jyotisha or jyotish) refers to ‘astronomy’ or “Vedic astrology” and represents the fifth of the six Vedangas (additional sciences to be studied along with the Vedas). Jyotisha concerns itself with the study and prediction of the movements of celestial bodies, in order to calculate the auspicious time for rituals and ceremonies.

From: Hayanaratna: The Jewel of Annual Astrology

(1) Mental calmness and composure, which is experienced when Jupiter is joined to Mercury, influencing emotional stability.[75]

Jain concept of 'Equanimity'
Jainism Books

Significance in Jainism (general):

Jainism is an Indian religion of Dharma whose doctrine revolves around harmlessness (ahimsa) towards every living being. The two major branches (Digambara and Svetambara) of Jainism stimulate self-control (or, shramana, ‘self-reliance’) and spiritual development through a path of peace for the soul to progess to the ultimate goal.

From: Acaranga-sutra

(1) Equanimity is a state of mental calmness and composure, maintained by heroes and those established in truth, regardless of external circumstances.[76]

From: Tattvartha Sutra (with commentary)

(1) It is also known as samayika, and it is of two kinds: with and without a time limit.[77] (2) A state of mental calmness and balance that is seen as a fruit of the first kind of pramana, associated with direct knowledge.[78]

From: Sutrakritanga (English translation)

(1) A balanced state of mind that remains calm amidst joys and sorrows, crucial for a Nirgrantha on their spiritual journey.[79]

From: Bhagavati-sutra (Viyaha-pannatti)

(1) A mental state of stability and composure, achieved through acts of pure offerings and selflessness.[80] (2) Mental calmness and composure, especially in difficult situations.[81] (3) A mental state of stability and composure, especially in difficult situations, a core aspect of samayika.[82]

From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra

(1) A state of mental stability and calmness, crucial for overcoming emotional disturbances and engaging in spiritual practice.[83]

The concept of Equanimity in local and regional sources
History Books

Significance in India history and geography:

From: Triveni Journal

(1) Equanimity is a state of mental calmness and composure, particularly in the face of life's ups and downs, as sought by Epicurus and advocated in the Gita view.[84] (2) Equanimity of the mind can be achieved and facilitated through the practice of observing equalised breathing, leading to greater mental balance and an ability to remain unperturbed.[85] (3) This is a state of mental calmness or composure, also referred to as Samatva, which is considered crucial for moral action and balance of mind.[86] (4) A balanced mental state that allows an individual to respond to various life situations with calmness and steadiness.[87] (5) Mental calmness and composure, especially in difficult situations.[88]

From: Gommatsara by Acharya Nemichandra

(1) A state where a specific number of Karmas are bound, with variations across stages.[89] (2) Equanimity is one of the three types of rough control, representing a state of mental balance.[90]

From: History of Science in South Asia

(1) Equanimity is a concept that is introduced during meditation practices, along with love, compassion, rejoicing, ugliness, and mindfulness of breathing.[91]

The concept of Equanimity in scientific sources
Science Books

Equanimity, in this context, signifies meditative repose, aligning with the "royal ease pose." This pose embodies both aristocracy and a state of calm composure.

Significance in Religious Studies:
Religion Books

From: Religions Journal (MDPI)

(1) It is a state Uddalaka experienced in the blockade of the flow of prana, showcasing a mental and emotional balance.[92] (2) Refers to a state of mental calmness and composure, especially in difficult situations, maintaining balance and emotional stability.[93] (3) The royal ease pose represents meditative repose, this, and aristocracy.[94]

Significance in Environmental Sciences:
Environmental Sciences Books

From: International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health (MDPI)

(1) A proposed outcome measure for studies involving meditation and contemplation, suggesting a state of mental calmness and evenness of temper, especially in difficult situations, that should be more precisely defined than current metrics allow.[95]

From: Sustainability Journal (MDPI)

(1) Equanimity, or upekkha, is the virtue characterized by psychological stability and tranquility, ensuring that the expressions of the other virtues, like loving-kindness and compassion, remain unconditional and universal in their scope toward all beings.[96]