Significance of Great faith
Great faith is a profound belief and trust that spans various spiritual traditions, including Tibetan Buddhism, Vaishnavism, Purana, Vedanta, Mahayana, and Theravada. In Tibetan Buddhism, it encompasses trust in spiritual mentors and practices, while in Vaishnavism, it represents devotion to Lord Caitanya and ritual activities. The Purana emphasizes belief in divine will and rituals. Across these traditions, Great faith is deemed essential for spiritual growth, successful practices, and a deep commitment to spiritual teachings and divine figures.
Synonyms: Strong belief, Unwavering faith, Trust, Confidence, Belief, Assurance, Conviction
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Great faith'
Great faith in Buddhism signifies deep dedication and trust in Buddhist principles, exemplified by individuals' commitment to teachings, their reverence towards spiritual mentors, and their motivation to practice loving-kindness, ultimately guiding them towards salvation.
From: Blue Annals (deb-ther sngon-po)
(1) An essential quality possessed by Mkhas grub dar rgyal ba from childhood that motivated him in his spiritual pursuits and dedication to holy practices.[1] (2) The deep trust and reverence that the monks had in Phag mo gru pa.[2] (3) The significant belief and respect shown by the Teacher Somanatha of Kashmira after receiving the teachings.[3] (4) A term describing the profound trust and belief that followers had in the Dharmasvamin and his teachings.[4] (5) A profound sense of belief and trust developed in Zhang Rinpoche, especially after reading key texts.[5]
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) The strong devotion and trust exhibited by the brahmin towards the monks and the Buddha's teachings.[6]
From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) Refers to the dedication and commitment to Buddhist principles that lead to salvation, as demonstrated by individuals in the story.[7]
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) A strong belief or conviction that motivates individuals to practice loving-kindness, particularly in the context of being reborn among the Brahmadevas.[8]
Hindu concept of 'Great faith'
Great faith in Hinduism encompasses a profound trust and unwavering belief in rituals, divine narratives, and the effectiveness of spiritual practices, essential for understanding Brahman and achieving spiritual growth across various contexts and figures.
From: Skanda Purana
(1) A quality demonstrated by the cowherd and later by the king, indicating a deep spiritual belief and dedication to sacred practices.[9] (2) A strong belief necessary for individuals observing fast and silence to attain higher spiritual states, such as becoming an aerial chariot-rider.[10] (3) A deep, unwavering trust and devotion to the divine that the king expresses in his appeals to Maheshvara.[11] (4) The deep trust and belief King Puruyashas had in the effectiveness of the prescribed holy rites.[12] (5) An essential attitude during worship that enhances the spiritual significance of the rituals performed.[13]
From: Padma Purana
(1) The level of sincere belief and trust in the act of giving, especially to deserving persons.[14] (2) A profound belief in the benefits of listening to the Padma Purana, which can prevent danger and promote spiritual growth.[15] (3) A sincere and strong belief in the significance of the Ekadashi-vow that is required for its correct observation.[16] (4) A profound trust and belief in the divine, specifically in lord Vishnu.[17]
From: Brahma Purana
(1) The strong belief and dedication that devotees possess when engaging in worship activities at Gundika.[18]
From: Gautami Mahatmya
(1) The deep belief held by King Pururavas in the divine, particularly towards Gautami.[19]
From: Bhagavad-gita Mahatmya
(1) The strong belief the sons held in performing offerings to Narayana as guided by their father.[20]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) The trust and belief that the Rishis express towards the golden bird, seeking guidance.[21]
From: Brahmanda Purana
(1) A quality associated with individuals who practice generosity correctly and reap the benefits of their charitable gifting.[22]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) A strong belief and trust in the spiritual authority of Lord Caitanya, signifying deep devotion.[23] (2) A strong trust or belief developed by the individual towards Nityananda.[24] (3) The strong belief and trust that everyone in Phuliya developed in Haridasa Prabhu.[25] (4) A strong and unwavering belief in Lord Hari that motivates devotees to engage in worship and devotional practices.[26]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) The strong belief or trust that the brahmana developed, influenced by Gopa-kumara's narration.[27] (2) A strong belief held by an individual, which can lead to a deeper understanding of spiritual truths.[28] (3) A significant level of belief and commitment to the ritual activities that the individual engaged in after observing the brahmanas.[29]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) A strong belief and trust in the practices mentioned, which is essential for spiritual progress.[30] (2) A strong belief or conviction that underpins a ritual or spiritual practice.[31]
From: Srila Gurudeva (The Supreme Treasure)
(1) The deep belief that Shrila Gurudeva possessed while reading the Ramayana and other sacred texts.[32] (2) The strong belief held by Shrila Swami Maharaja in the effectiveness of his preaching strategy.[33]
From: Prem Sagar (English translation)
(1) Indicates Rookmunee's strong belief in divine assistance and protection on her marriage day.[34] (2) The strong belief and trust in Krishna, demonstrated by the hump-backed woman through her actions and words.[35]
From: Brihadaranyaka Upanishad
(1) Refers to the belief and trust essential for comprehending and realizing Brahman, as illustrated in the story of Gargya.[36]
The concept of Great faith in local and regional sources
Great faith embodies a deep conviction in the power of prayer and aspiration, which is crucial for achieving impactful spiritual practices, according to regional sources emphasizing its significance in spiritual growth and transformation.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) A strong belief in the efficacy of prayer and aspiration, often essential for powerful spiritual practices.[37]