Significance of Firm faith
Firm faith, as understood across various spiritual traditions, represents a strong and unwavering belief system that serves as a foundation for spiritual growth and understanding. In Jainism, it enhances the comprehension of realities. In Vaishnavism, it encompasses steadfast devotion to deities like Krishna and unwavering trust in divine narratives. Likewise, in South Asian Buddhism and other philosophies, firm faith signifies a resolute belief that contributes to spiritual progress, ultimately facilitating liberation and deepening one's connection to the divine.
Synonyms: Strong belief, Steadfast faith, Strong assurance
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Firm faith'
Firm faith in Buddhism signifies a strong belief in the Dhamma linked to Sotapatti Fruition and a resolute conviction vital for a bodhisattva's journey towards achieving the perfection of wisdom.
From: The Perfection Of Wisdom In Eight Thousand Lines
(1) A resolute belief held by the bodhisattva, essential for progressing toward the perfection of wisdom.[1]
From: Guide to Tipitaka
(1) A strong belief in the Dhamma that accompanies the realization of Sotapatti Fruition.[2]
Hindu concept of 'Firm faith'
Firm faith in Hinduism encompasses unwavering belief in divine principles, devotion to deities like Shri Rama, and reliance on spiritual teachings. It fosters spiritual advancement, liberation, and a strong connection to the Supreme Lord and sacred narratives.
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) Strong belief and devotion, particularly in Bhakti.[3] (2) a great quality; denoting the importance of unwavering belief in the worship of the deities.[4] (3) Strong and unwavering belief in the teachings and practices associated with the divine narration.[5] (4) A deep belief in and trust of the divine narratives and glories related to Shri Krishna and His pastimes.[6] (5) a strong conviction held by Gopa-kumara in his spiritual beliefs.[7]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) Shrivasa's steadfast belief in Nityananda that remained unwavering despite societal expectations concerning caste and character.[8] (2) A strong conviction in Krishna that qualifies an individual as a topmost devotee.[9] (3) Refers to the strong belief Shrivasa Pandita had in whatever he was told.[10] (4) The unwavering belief of child Acyutananda in Lord Caitanya.[11] (5) The unwavering belief and devotion in the Supreme Lord, which is linked to devotion to Thakura Haridasa.[12]
From: Bhajana-Rahasya
(1) A strong and unwavering belief, particularly in the context of devotion to vraja-lila.[13] (2) A strong belief necessary for appropriate worship that focuses solely on the Supreme Lord instead of including demigods and goddesses.[14] (3) The strong conviction and belief necessary for a sadhaka to perform harinama-kirtana.[15] (4) The steadfast belief that Krishna will consistently provide for and look after His devotees.[16] (5) A strong conviction in the teachings of scriptures and the statements of the guru that align with sacred texts.[17]
From: Tiruvaymoli (Thiruvaimozhi): English translation
(1) A strong and unwavering belief in the Supreme Lord as both the means to spiritual ends and the ultimate goal.[18] (2) A strong belief and trust in the divine, specifically noted here in the context of devotion to Shri Rama.[19] (3) The unwavering belief and trust that the Alvar has in the Lord's constant presence and support.[20]
From: Sri Krishna-Chaitanya
(1) Described as an essential aspect of devotion, characterized by sraddha, according to Sri Nimbaditya's teachings.[21]
From: Srila Gurudeva (The Supreme Treasure)
(1) An essential quality in bhakti that entails detachment from worldly attachments.[22]
From: Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu
(1) A strong and unwavering belief in the principles and practices of bhakti as a means of spiritual advancement.[23]
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) A strong belief or conviction regarding the existence of an entity, which is questioned in the context of distinguishing between reality and non-entity.[24] (2) A strong belief in unity that characterizes those described as truly liberated and knowledgeable.[25] (3) A strong and unwavering belief in a higher power or spiritual truth that can lead to liberation.[26]
From: Garuda Purana
(1) A strong conviction or belief in the divine, deemed necessary for spiritual progress.[27]
From: Kathopanishad (Madhva commentary)
(1) An unwavering belief in the Divine that facilitates the understanding and realization of one’s true self.[28] (2) A strong belief that the town with eleven gates is under the control of the Unborn, leading to freedom and liberation after death.[29]
From: Prasthanatrayi Swaminarayan Bhashyam (Study)
(1) The strong belief and trust placed in the feet of Parabrahman, regarded as the best means to please Him.[30] (2) A deep and unwavering trust in the teachings and words of the great sadhu as an essential aspect of spiritual practice.[31]
Jain concept of 'Firm faith'
Firm faith in Jainism is characterized by a resolute belief intertwined with the principle of Syadvada, which deepens one’s comprehension of both transient and eternal realities. This understanding fosters a profound spiritual insight.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) A resolute belief taken along with the law of Syadvada that enhances one's understanding of perishable and imperishable realities.[32]
The concept of Firm faith in local and regional sources
Firm faith signifies a deeply rooted belief system in the law of Buddha, reflecting the reverence and commitment of the people towards Buddhist teachings and principles, shaping their spiritual and communal identities.
From: Buddhist records of the Western world (Xuanzang)
(1) A strong belief system among the people in the law of Buddha, which they greatly honor.[33]