Significance of Expansion

Expansion, as defined across various contexts, indicates different meanings. In Tibetan Buddhism, it suggests a transition from contraction to straightening. In Vaishnavism, it pertains to the manifestation of deities and the non-difference between source and its emanations. Dharmashastra sees it as additional commentary that may alter interpretations of texts. Vaisheshika defines it as increasing size or spreading out. In Indian history, expansion signifies growth and development, emphasizing the movement outward as essential to life.1
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Synonyms: Growth, Increase, Enlargement, Extension, Amplification, Development, Spread, Proliferation, Augmentation

In Dutch: Uitbreiding; In Finnish: Laajentaminen; In Spanish: Expansión

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

Buddhist concept of 'Expansion'

Buddhism Books

In Buddhism, Expansion signifies the process of transforming a curved object into a straightened form, symbolizing growth and liberation from limitations, contrasting with the concept of contraction and representing spiritual awakening and enlightenment.

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

From: Tattvasangraha [with commentary]

(1) The action that leads a curved object to become straightened again, in contradiction to contracting.[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 'Expansion'

Hinduism Books

Expansion in Hinduism signifies growth and spreading, encompassing divine manifestations, the unity of source and emanations, and the influence of supplementary interpretations on sacred texts, thus reflecting dynamic theological principles.

Significance in Vaishnavism (Vaishava dharma):
Vaishnavism Books

From: Chaitanya Bhagavata

(1) A term indicating the manifestation or incarnation of a deity in various forms to fulfill divine purposes.[2]

From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)

(1) the concept of amshi and amsha being nondifferent; emphasizing the relationship between the source and its emanations.[3]

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’).

Significance in Vaisheshika (school of philosophy):
Vaisheshika Books

From: Padarthadharmasamgraha and Nyayakandali

(1) The action of increasing in size or spreading out, listed as one of the five key actions.[4]

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 Dharmashastra (religious law):
Dharmashastra Books

From: Baudhayana Dharmasutra

(1) Additional content or commentary that has been added to original texts, potentially altering their interpretations.[5]

Dharmashastra contains the instructions (shastra) regarding religious conduct of livelihood (dharma), ceremonies, jurisprudence (study of law) and more. It is categorized as smriti, an important and authoritative selection of books dealing with the Hindu lifestyle.

The concept of Expansion in local and regional sources

History Books

Expansion signifies a proactive approach focused on growth and development, emphasizing the need for progress. It highlights the importance of moving forward, as contraction symbolizes stagnation or decline.

Significance in India history and geography:

From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda

(1) This is a call to action to increase, suggesting the importance of growth and development in their efforts and influence.[6] (2) The only sign of life is going outward and forward and expansion, while contraction is considered death.[7]

Plural form: Expansions.