Significance of Eternal laws
Eternal law encompasses a range of unchanging principles that guide ethical conduct and cosmic order across various philosophies and religions. In Jainism, it reflects fundamental ethical guidelines, while in Purana, it emphasizes the reverence for husbands and universal moral principles. Dharmashastra defines it as laws from the Veda, dictating behavior and duties across social classes. Pancaratra and Mahayana focus on universal principles guiding morality and existence, while Theravada highlights universal truths, such as the inevitability of death and the counteracting power of love over hatred.
Synonyms: Divine law, Moral law, Natural law, Universal law, Immutable law
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Eternal laws'
Eternal law in Buddhism conveys essential truths: hatred dissolves through love and compassion, death is inevitable for all beings, and universal laws of nature outline the path to enlightenment as taught by the Buddha.
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) A truth that applies universally to all beings, particularly the inevitability of death.[1]
From: Vinaya (2): The Mahavagga
(1) A fundamental principle stating that hatred cannot be dissolved by hatred, but rather by its opposite, developing an understanding of love or compassion.[2]
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) Universal laws of nature and existence as described by the Buddha, which govern life and enlightenment.[3]
Hindu concept of 'Eternal laws'
Eternal law in Hinduism represents unchanging cosmic principles governing moral conduct, dharma, and social responsibilities. It emphasizes righteousness, divine will, and universal truths, guiding ethical behaviors and societal harmony across all beings.
From: The Bhagavata Purana
(1) The principle that those who contribute labor in a task deserve their share of the results.[4] (2) The overarching moral principles and guidelines established for human conduct to ensure righteousness and societal harmony.[5] (3) Also referred to as Religion, it becomes known through revelations during the observance of time.[6] (4) The principle of righteousness (Dharma) that encompasses the sympathetic feelings towards the grief or joy of others.[7]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki
(1) Principles that govern dharma and morality, emphasized as critical for the King’s decisions.[8] (2) The rule established by the Gods regarding the relationships of Apsaras, implying permanence and universal application.[9] (3) A principle that dictates that to a wife, her husband is revered as a deity regardless of his virtues or flaws.[10]
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) The unchanging decrees set forth by the divine will that apply to all forms of creation.[11] (2) Universal principles governing actions and consequences beyond individual control.[12]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) The enduring principles that guide the moral and ethical conduct of beings across the universe.[13] (2) The unchanging principles that govern cosmic order and behavior.[14]
From: The Linga Purana
(1) The principle of Rita that governs the cosmic order and truthlessness in the universe.[15]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) The foundational and unchanging laws that govern the responsibilities and behaviors expected from different social classes, particularly the Duties of the King.[16] (2) The law laid down in the Veda, which is considered unchanging and everlasting.[17] (3) The overarching principles derived from the Vedas that dictate the proper conduct regarding eating and sacrifices.[18] (4) The concept that certain actions, even if performed by some, do not align with universal truths or principles.[19] (5) Fundamental principles or rules believed to be universal and unchanging within the context of religious doctrine.[20]
From: Narayaniya (Narayaneeyam)
(1) The unchanging and universal principles governing life and morality that guide individuals in their spiritual practices and duties.[21]
Jain concept of 'Eternal laws'
Eternal law in Jainism embodies unchanging fundamental principles that govern ethical behavior, serving as a timeless moral compass for adherents in their pursuit of righteousness and spiritual progress.
From: Acaranga-sutra
(1) The fundamental principles that do not change over time and guide ethical behavior.[22]