Significance of External action
External action in Vaishnavism encompasses visible behaviors motivated by emotional experiences and those aimed at concealing one's true feelings, often stemming from low self-perception. In Vyakarana, external action is defined as actions conveyed through suffixes, highlighting a distinction between outward actions and the inward actions that remain within a person. This dual perspective illustrates the complex nature of external actions, revealing both emotional expressions and linguistic representations of behavior.
Synonyms: External activity, External behavior
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'External action'
External action in Hinduism encompasses behaviors designed to mask low self-esteem, conveys actions through specific suffixes, and includes visible reactions influenced by strong emotions (anubhavas), highlighting the interplay between inner feelings and outer expressions.
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) Any deeds or influences from outside oneself that typically cannot sway or manipulate the true essence of the mind.[1] (2) The deeds and activities performed in the physical world that can either disrupt or support one's spiritual progress.[2]
From: Laghu-yoga-vasistha
(1) Physical acts performed in the world, which should not overshadow the internal spiritual reality.[3]
From: Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu
(1) Visible behaviors or responses (anubhavas) that are motivated by intense emotional experiences.[4] (2) The behavior exhibited to conceal one’s outward symptoms, particularly rooted in low self-perception.[5]
From: Bhajana-Rahasya
(1) Physical manifestations such as dancing resulting from the stimulation of bhavas in the heart.[6]
From: Vakyapadiya of Bhartrihari
(1) Refers to actions that might suggest an external basis for measuring and dividing Time, which the text argues against.[7] (2) An action that is not inherently connected to the subject being compared, hence cannot establish a basis for comparison.[8] (3) Refers to actions that are conveyed through the suffix, distinguishing them from inward actions that remain within the subject.[9]
From: Prashna Upanishad with Shankara’s Commentary
(1) External actions are actions taken in the physical world that may coincide with the practice of meditation.[10]
The concept of External action in local and regional sources
External action emphasizes the role of wars and conflicts in fostering societal cohesion, distinguishing it from earlier narratives that celebrated divine or heroic ideals, thus reflecting a shift in storytelling and thematic focus in regional epics.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) The portrayal of wars and conflicts as a means for societal cohesion, contrasting with previous epics that focused on divine or heroic motivations.[11]