Significance of Faith
Synonyms: Trust, Belief, Confidence, Reliance, Conviction, Assurance, Hope, Loyalty, Devotion, Creed, Assurance.
In Malay: Iman; In French: Foi; In Swedish: Tro; In Spanish: Fe; In Dutch: Vertrouwen; In Finnish: Usko; In German: Glaube; In Portugese: Fé; In Polish: Wiara; In Italian: Fede
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Faith'
In Buddhism, faith (saddha or prasada) encompasses belief in the Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha. It's trust in spiritual teachings, the path to enlightenment, and the potential for positive outcomes through practice, essential for spiritual growth.
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) This is also known as prasada or shraddha. It occurs only in the faculties and the powers and not elsewhere. Exertion is not absent anywhere, although it adds up all the dharmas of the Path, it also makes up a separate category.[1] (2) The purity of their faith allows them to enter into the path of cessation of suffering, demonstrating the power of belief.[2] (3) It is the reason that Shucimukhi was reborn among the Tushita gods after her death, specifically in the venerable Shariputra.[3] (4) The Omniscient one is hidden because those who ought to see him do not possess the required four kinds of faith.[4] (5) Faith is one of the five moral faculties that a bodhisattva cultivates, which, when perfected, allows them to cognize the true nature of dharmas.[5]
From: Mahayana Mahaparinirvana Sutra
(1) This term refers to the belief in the teachings of the Buddha, and it is associated with the path to enlightenment and the understanding of the nature of reality.[6] (2) A crucial component in Buddhist practice, seen as an essential virtue that can lead practitioners toward realization and understanding.[7] (3) Trust and confidence in the Three Treasures, necessary for spiritual progress and the attainment of warming-up.[8]
From: Bodhisattvacharyavatara
(1) The declaration of respect is an expression of faith, devotion, conviction, and certainty, and it will inspire faith and trust in the reader.[9] (2) The term refers to the inspiration in the newly gathered audience after the Buddha performs a miracle with his tongue, which is one aspect of the miraculous display of magical powers stemming from the infinite qualities of the Buddha's speech.[10]
From: Akshayamatinirdesha [english]
(1) It is a deep and unwavering belief in something, often without requiring concrete proof. It serves as a foundation for spiritual growth and provides the strength to overcome obstacles on the path to enlightenment.[11]
From: The Perfection Of Wisdom In Eight Thousand Lines
(1) An important quality for a bodhisattva, but it must be combined with wisdom to avoid destruction.[12]
From: Shurangama Sutra (with commentary) (English)
(1) "Faith" dwells in the transference of merit, which is associated with the Mind of Transference, representing the interreflection of images and the interaction of life-breath and light with the Buddha.[13]
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) The provided material explains that faith in a Buddhist sense is not blind, but combined with wisdom, growing with practice and understanding.[14] (2) This refers to trust or belief, as mentioned in the text.[15] (3) This term signifies the belief and trust in the Buddha and his teachings, which can work marvels, guiding people and being a sure guide.[16] (4) A personal belief system that individuals hold, which should be respected but not conflated with objective truth.[17]
From: Maha Buddhavamsa—The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) Faith plays a significant role for future Buddhas, particularly those who are Saddhadhika, guiding them in their fulfilment of Perfections towards Enlightenment.[18] (2) It is a rendering of the Pali word ‘saddha’ and means ‘that which holds and keeps well’; like clear water holding an image, it firmly holds virtues and attributes, and is compared to possessing hands, wealth, or seeds.[19] (3) Also known as saddha, it is the belief through which individuals join the Order.[20]
From: Visuddhimagga (the pah of purification)
(1) This is mentioned in the text, and one who has this is successful, not one who has no faith, and having established yourself in these five things, you should develop six things, and one should recollect the Perfect One.[21] (2) The belief or trust in positive outcomes or truths, especially concerning the teachings of the Dhamma.[22]
From: Vinaya Pitaka (3): Khandhaka
(1) People gained this in the wanderers belonging to other sects who spoke dhamma.[23] (2) A quality that, if possessed by a monk, allows him to live independently; its absence means he should not.[24]
From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) A deep trust in spiritual principles that elevates the value of giving, making any donation significant.[25]
From: Vinaya Pitaka (4): Parivara
(1) Refers to a strong belief or confidence in something or someone.[26]
From: Introducing Buddhist Abhidhamma
(1) Belief in principles or truths that are deemed worthy of trust.[27]
From: Patipada (path of practice)
(1) Faith is the belief in the teachings and practices of Buddhism, and is essential for the relics of Venerable Acharn to turn into Dhatu.[28]
From: A Manual of Abhidhamma
(1) Saddha, which is not mere confidence, is described as trusting in, professing confidence in, and having a sense of assurance.[29]
From: Guide to Tipitaka
(1) It is related to the Tathagata, the Noble Path of Eight Constituents, Nibbana, and the Order of the Tathagata.[30]
From: Milindapanha (questions of King Milinda)
(1) Mahasena the god was overjoyed at the thought that he would be able to help this by refuting the heresy of Milinda.[31]
From: Hualin International Journal of Buddhist Studies
(1) A key aspect of Buddhism, according to Borges, and it is discussed in the context of his lecture, contrasting with the views of some intellectuals.[32] (2) Faith is the belief in a religion, and the provincial governor Li Yi, a reverent believer in Buddhism, heard that Buddhist monks were crossing the seas by boat with Buddhist scriptures and statues, and showed faith.[33]
From: The Great Chariot
(1) The belief or trust in spiritual teachings and practices, which is described as hard to come by.[34]
From: Apadana commentary (Atthakatha)
(1) A quality instilled in members of the royal family through religious discourse, leading to a top position for someone.[35]
From: Tattvasangraha [with commentary]
(1) The text contrasts those imbued with faith, who readily accept assertions, with those who lack faith and require reasons or evidence to support claims being made.[36] (2) It is mentioned that assertions are well-received by individuals who are deeply devoted and trustful, implying that faith plays a crucial role in accepting certain statements.[37]
From: Blue Annals (deb-ther sngon-po)
(1) A belief system that arises in an individual, as shown when khams sgom asked for hidden precepts from dam pa.[38]
Hindu concept of 'Faith'
In Hinduism, faith is a deep trust in the divine, rituals, and teachings, crucial for spiritual growth, realizing Brahman, and attaining immortality. It aids comprehension, focuses the mind, and ensures the efficacy of practices.
From: Chandogya Upanishad (Shankara Bhashya)
(1) It originates in the Agnihotra-libations and is described as the subtle elements of Water in the context.[39] (2) The attainment of knowledge of the teaching is to be brought about by this.[40] (3) A necessary belief that aids comprehension of subtle truths, enabling one’s mind to focus and understand deeper concepts beyond physical perception.[41] (4) Faith is the belief or trust that arises when one serves; without service, Faith cannot exist.[42] (5) Faith is the idea that the thing in question really exists.[43]
From: Brahma Sutras (Shankaracharya)
(1) This is mentioned in connection with those in the forest, indicating that it is a key element of a stage of life focused on austerity and spiritual devotion.[44] (2) This, together with penance and abstinence, is a quality that helps individuals seek the Self and achieve the northern path, which results in immortality.[45] (3) A concept, which is connected to the deeds, and the oblations, and is a result of the deeds, and is connected to the water, and is connected to the souls.[46] (4) This is a component that, combined with knowledge and the Upanishad, is stated to be more impactful than knowledge alone.[47] (5) A belief system or trust, which is practiced in the forest, as detailed in the sacred texts, and this is one of the three branches.[48]
From: Chandogya Upanishad (english Translation)
(1) Faith is offered as water, acting as the oblation given by the gods to the fire in the ritual.[49] (2) It is described as a means to concentrate the mind, enabling one to grasp spiritual truths and realize the Self.[50] (3) A fundamental belief that underpins the practice of austerities and influences the spiritual journey.[51] (4) Trust and belief in the teacher, scriptures, and oneself, which helps to resolve doubts and uncertainties.[52]
From: Brahma Sutras (Ramanuja)
(1) Faith ensures that the devotee who is firmly convinced of his aim being attainable in the way described, will attain it beyond any doubt through devout meditation.[53] (2) The provided text references it in the context of doing something with knowledge and the Upanishad, which is described as more vigorous.[54] (3) Complete trust or confidence in someone or something, which is a practice that helps one seek the Self and, in turn, benefits knowledge.[55] (4) Belief in Brahman, considered a prerequisite that supports the journey towards deeper knowledge through hearing and reflection.[56]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad Bhashya Vartika
(1) A primary factor that arises with regard to things to be done by someone who has well-ascertained knowledge, considered the head of vijnanamaya.[57] (2) In the context of this verse, faith is associated with the intellect, which embodies trust in the understanding of truth.[58]
From: Brihadaranyaka Upanishad
(1) Regarded as a significant factor in the realization of Brahman, reflecting the belief that genuine understanding requires trust in the teachings presented.[59]
From: Thirty minor Upanishads
(1) A crucial belief system that supports spiritual realization and overcomes doubts.[60]
From: Vivekachudamani
(1) It is the belief in the Real Brahman. It is essential for practices like hearing, reflection, and meditation, which help in purging the intellect's Rajasika nature.[61]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) It is the belief and trust the brahmana had in Kamakhya-devi and the power of his mantra, guiding his spiritual path.[62] (2) It is a quality with which one should listen when something confidential is about to be revealed, as instructed to the addressed person.[63] (3) Faith, also known as sraddha, is the awakening that diminishes the power of karma and elevates bhakti to the primary means of spiritual progress.[64] (4) The strong belief held by the vraja-vasis that their acts of devotion would lead to Shri Krishna's favorable response.[65] (5) The trust and conviction that are emphasized in the relationship between Uddhava and the Lord regarding the necessity of the Lord's presence for the sustenance of devotion.[66]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) Faith, or lack thereof, is central to the passage, with 'apratyaya vasa' meaning 'disbelieve' or 'to have no faith', highlighting the importance of belief and trust.[67] (2) Faith is a belief or trust in someone or something, which in this case was initially present but then diminished after witnessing certain behaviors or actions.[68] (3) An interpretation of the term pramana, signifying trust or belief in something.[69] (4) A strong belief or trust in something, often associated with spirituality or divine assurance.[70]
From: Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu
(1) Faith purifies the intellect, enabling sincere worship of Krishna, which destroys darkness and leads to purification, resulting in the destruction of sins.[71] (2) Faith, in the context of mangalyam, represents a belief and trust placed in something, making it an object of reverence for the entire world.[72] (3) A belief that motivates the speaker to serve after hearing about exceptional attributes.[73]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) A strong belief or trust in something, referenced as 'श्रद्धां' in the text.[74] (2) A strong belief or trust, especially in a spiritual context, as seen in Bahulashva's attributes.[75]
From: Bhajana-Rahasya
(1) The initial trust and belief in exclusive devotion that arises through accumulated spiritual merit (sukriti) from previous lives.[76]
From: Srila Gurudeva (The Supreme Treasure)
(1) The strong belief and trust in divine principles and guidance, essential for following the path of bhakti.[77]
From: Sri Krishna-Chaitanya
(1) This is a belief without proof, and the text discusses the role of faith in the quest for the Absolute.[78]
From: Tiruvaymoli (Thiruvaimozhi): English translation
(1) This is something the speaker once had but is now shaken.[79]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) Faith is the purity of Soul through which Janardana is known from the scriptures, allowing one to understand the union of the Gross, the Subtle, and the Cause; it is devoid of worldly pleasures.[80] (2) Sometimes sacrifices performed by some persons do not become sacrifices in consequence of the absence of this of those that perform them.[81] (3) A belief or trust that an individual should maintain as part of their character.[82] (4) An essential component for understanding spiritual truths, as it requires personal conviction and belief.[83] (5) A necessary belief that aids in succeeding to attain subtile sense.[84]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Griffith)
(1) The text references a belief in someone's trustworthiness, which is exploited to manipulate a king into making promises that ultimately lead to devastating consequences, highlighting the dangers of misplaced confidence.[85] (2) One of the qualities for which the narrator's sister is renowned, and is the reason why she is loved by her husband.[86]
From: Bhagavadgita
(1) It is produced from dispositions and is of three kinds in embodied beings; it is of the quality of goodness, passion, and darkness.[87]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) A belief associated with the Sattva quality, contributing to a sense of well-being and righteousness. Also classified under three headings: Sattvik, Rajasik and Tamasik.[88]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) The text suggests that having faith, along with following Right Conduct and being free from jealousy, contributes to a long life and overall well-being.[89] (2) A belief or trust, and those lacking in this quality are referred to as 'ashraddhinah,' influencing whether a Brahmana can accept meals from them.[90] (3) A prayer expresses a desire that faith never waver, indicating the importance of maintaining strong beliefs and convictions within the context.[91] (4) This is what is actually prescribed in the present verse:—‘one should make the offering with due faith.’[92] (5) A treasured quality that, when absent, can lead to one's offerings being regarded as inferior, suggesting the importance of intent and purity.[93]
From: Bharadvaja-srauta-sutra
(1) A crucial element of the rituals, emphasizing the belief and intent behind the sacrificial acts.[94]
From: Asvalayana-grihya-sutra
(1) The text mentions faith as one of the elements along with memory, reproach, knowledge, and wisdom, without providing any further details.[95]
From: Hayanaratna: The Jewel of Annual Astrology
(1) This is one of the sahamas, a set of concepts that aid in the outcomes of all the houses, in the same manner that fate supports the endeavors of people.[96] (2) Divination, like religion, relies heavily on faith and presupposes some sort of personal connection with the constantly unfolding but mysterious patterns of cosmic change.[97] (3) This is one of the sahamas, signifying a strong belief or trust in something or someone, as stated in the text.[98] (4) This sahama is produced by subtracting Mars from Venus at all times by the procedure stated, as per the text.[99] (5) This signifies pious inclination, which is a strong belief or trust in something, often related to religious or spiritual matters.[100]
From: Journal of Ayurveda and Integrated Medical Sciences
(1) This is the belief in something, especially without proof, and the text suggests that faith and belief in a cure helps patients to get well, influencing their recovery.[101]
Jain concept of 'Faith'
In Jainism, Faith is crucial for liberation, acting as both a cause and aspect of deliverance. It involves trusting knowledge across time and is essential for monks. Central to Faith is unwavering belief in the true nature of reality.
From: Bhagavati-sutra (Viyaha-pannatti)
(1) Faith is a component of devotion, categorized into high, medium, and low levels, and high devotion to faith may or may not correlate with high devotion to knowledge or conduct.[102] (2) Faith is part of the equipage that a monk should possess; the presence or absence of faith influences whether the monk's actions are considered iriyapathiki or samparaiki.[103] (3) A belief or trust that similarly extends to both current and past or future existences as implied in the context of knowledge.[104]
From: Uttaradhyayana Sutra
(1) It is one of the four causes for final deliverance, which the Jinas have taught. It is also considered the second aspect of the road to deliverance.[105]
From: Tattvartha Sutra (with commentary)
(1) The belief in the nature of reality without any uncertainty is the central element associated with this particular concept.[106]
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) The king of the gods and King Kumbha bowed to the Teacher of the World and praised him joyfully, their souls cleansed by faith.[107]
The concept of Faith in local and regional sources
Faith is a central theme encompassing belief in God, oneself, and religious doctrines. It's a source of strength, guidance, and trust, but can degrade into negative traits if isolated.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) Sri Aurobindo had an unshakable faith in the future of India, predicting its independence and its eventual unity with Pakistan.[108] (2) The concept of "faiths" is illustrated by the “Trinities” of the Hindu, Christian, and Moslem faiths, showcasing how different belief systems incorporate the number three into their doctrines.[109] (3) Is a component of democracy, reflecting the belief that all individuals are related and possess inherent worth, influencing the understanding of equality and individual potential.[110] (4) The text describes Faith as a resource that does not diminish, sustaining individuals throughout their lives and providing steadfast belief.[111] (5) Radhakrishnan wrote in 1955 that the fundamental need of the world is the recovery of faith, observing that spiritual reawakening is far deeper than social or economic changes.[112]
From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda
(1) It was hoped that the teachings of the Swami Vivekananda would confirm it among Spiritualists, due to the alignment between the Hindu Philosophy and their beliefs about the nature of humanity.[113] (2) A strong belief or trust, especially in someone or something; in the recipient's heart, representing a source of reassurance and confidence for the author.[114] (3) Therein is our faith, therein is our hope, of a reality. Of what avail is a mere mystical principle! The purpose and intent of what I have to say to you is this, that I have found it possible in my life to worship all of them, and to be ready for all that are yet to come.[115] (4) This is the trust and belief in the addressee's reliability and integrity, underscoring the unwavering confidence placed in the addressee.[116] (5) It underscores the importance of maintaining belief and trust, particularly in the face of adversity, suggesting that divine protection renders one impervious to harm.[117]
From: Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints
(1) Faith is described as a full-moon festival, which symbolizes a radiant and complete spiritual experience that dispels darkness and brings illumination.[118] (2) A strong belief that triggers Krishna’s immediate help and attention to a devotee in need.[119]
The concept of Faith in scientific sources
Faith, as presented, encompasses trust, belief without proof, and spiritual connection, impacting areas from personal resilience and relationships to religious identity and community support, while also influencing volunteerism and theological development.
From: Religions Journal (MDPI)
(1) The provided content states that the world of faith is thus by no means a momentary feeling of presence or absence, and on the contrary, it can last as long faith lives.[120] (2) "Faith" in the atoning sacrifice of Christ is central to Lutheran theology, emphasizing how sinful mankind can be reconciled to God.[121] (3) Refers to a concept that welcomes things from a distance and concerns the “assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen”.[122] (4) Refers to a strong belief in something, often based on spiritual conviction rather than empirical evidence, playing a role in the lives of religious career decision-makers.[123] (5) Luther understood “faith” not as “freedom and autonomy,” but much more as “a willing surrender to the sanctifying grace of God,” whereby “faith is wholly inward and gives the soul a worldsurpassing power”.[124]
From: Religious Inquiries (Journal)
(1) Faith is a resource for meaningful narrative, introducing new realities and interpretations of life's aspects, helping to develop a narrative of life.[125] (2) According to the text, **faith** is one of the essential tenets of salvation, and Ibn Taymiyya distinguishes it from Islam, asserting that salvation is achieved through faith.[126] (3) In the text, it is intertwined with certainty, with certainty accompanying it at a primary level and intensifying it to higher levels, and religious certainty deriving from faith.[127] (4) Faith and real Islam have an essential requirement of a mother's satisfaction, as Islam pays attention to the difficulties and burdens she bears to nurture her child.[128] (5) Like loyalty and love, faith is common in people, and is interconnected with hope; life is worthy when its basis is God, which causes an absolute and unconditional hope caused by nothing, which does not fade away.[129]
From: International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health (MDPI)
(1) Complete trust or confidence in someone or something.[130] (2) Anchored by faith, the text references a handbook that discusses adult resilience, highlighting the role of faith in providing stability and strength.[131] (3) Faith involves believing in a higher power, having confidence in that power to heal, and trusting that God is in control of everything, which contributes to the healing experience.[132] (4) Faith is mentioned as having an influence on family interactions and interest in health issues during the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly among Polish adolescents, and it can positively impact psychological resilience.[133] (5) A system of beliefs and practices related to the supernatural, often involving rituals, community, and moral codes.[134]
From: Sustainability Journal (MDPI)
(1) Faith pertains to a strong belief in something, often without requiring empirical evidence, and it can play a significant role in shaping individuals' values, behaviors, and sense of purpose.[135] (2) Faith is an author who studied compositional dissimilarity as a robust measure of ecological distance.[136] (3) Faith is used as a lens to explore the theoretical basis and assumptions at the heart of the Sustainable Livelihood Approach, along with its practicality and inclusion in modifications to the framework.[137] (4) This is the foundation stone for the faith-based development organizations, potentially influencing institutional sustainability.[138]