Significance of Great pain
Great pain, across various philosophies such as Jainism, Vaishnavism, and Theravada, encompasses intense suffering stemming from karmic consequences and emotional distress. In Jainism, it manifests as suffering due to karma and worldly existence, while in Vaishnavism, it is linked to deep devotion and loss, particularly in relation to divine figures. Similarly, Theravada highlights both physical and emotional suffering related to self-sacrifice and personal affliction. This multi-faceted concept underscores the profound impact of suffering on living beings and their experiences.
Synonyms: Severe pain, Intense pain, Acute pain, Excruciating pain, Extreme pain, Agony, Torment, Suffering, Distress, Misery, Anguish, Torment.
In Dutch: Grote pijn; In Finnish: Suuri kipu; In Spanish: Gran dolor
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 pain'
In Buddhism, "Great pain" encompasses various forms of suffering: physical hardships, emotional turmoil, and self-sacrifice. It reflects deep dedication, personal trials, and interactions that highlight the profound nature of suffering experienced by different individuals.
From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) The intense suffering experienced by King Sivi during his self-sacrificial act.[1] (2) The intense suffering experienced by the paccekabuddha after being shot by Sumangala.[2] (3) The condition suffered by the hunchback during the journey, which leads him to fall down and prompts the interaction with the Bodhisatta.[3] (4) Efforts or hardships taken by someone, implying significant dedication and care, as demonstrated by the brahmin in nurturing the bull.[4]
From: Maha Buddhavamsa—The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) The severe discomfort caused by an affliction of colic that the Venerable Sariputta experienced.[5]
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) The suffering experienced by the monk when Koka pricked his heels, showcasing the physical consequences of the huntman's aggressive actions.[6]
From: Vinaya (2): The Mahavagga
(1) The emotional suffering experienced by Sakka Suddhodana upon the ordination of his son and others.[7]
Hindu concept of 'Great pain'
In Hinduism, Great pain encompasses varied forms of suffering—emotional distress from battles and loss, discomfort due to health issues, and the intense struggle of devotion, highlighting the significance of sacrifice, attachment, and conflict in life.
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) The intense emotional suffering experienced by Dhritarashtra upon hearing of the deaths of key warriors like Bhishma and Drona.[8] (2) A state experienced by Duhsasana as he witnessed the devastation of his forces in battle.[9] (3) Refers to the suffering experienced by Karna when he was pierced during the battle, highlighting the severity of the conflict.[10] (4) The discomfort Indra felt due to Bhangasvana's sacrifice, which was aimed to counteract Indra's power.[11] (5) Refers to Duryodhana's considerable efforts to harm the Pandavas.[12]
From: Skanda Purana
(1) The suffering experienced by Karnataka upon hearing the Vedic chants.[13] (2) The suffering inflicted upon Hara during his battle with Andhaka.[14]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) The sorrow that arises from connections with women, as mentioned by the Devi in her discourse with Mahisha.[15]
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) The significant struggles endured by Chudala due to her separation from Sikhidvaja.[16]
From: Laghu-yoga-vasistha
(1) Refers to the suffering experienced by the mind during its tumultuous journey through life.[17]
From: Shiva Purana
(1) The emotional response of the gods upon witnessing Indra's fall, highlighting the impact of battle.[18]
From: Tiruvaymoli (Thiruvaimozhi): English translation
(1) The suffering experienced by the Nayaki as she feels tormented by reminders of the Lord’s presence through nature.[19] (2) The suffering experienced by the daughter, reflecting her frail state.[20] (3) The efforts and attention paid by the Lord to engage with His devotees and cultivate their love.[21]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) intense emotional suffering that is outwardly visible in the devotees who are experiencing deep devotion.[22]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) The significant emotional suffering experienced by saintly devotees as a result of Sita's abandonment.[23]
From: Bhajana-Rahasya
(1) An intense emotional distress experienced by the gopis as they face the impending departure of Shri Krishna.[24]
From: Prem Sagar (English translation)
(1) The suffering inflicted upon Sumboo by the Kouruvùs after they captured him, showcasing the conflict's intensity.[25]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) The significant emotional suffering that is associated with the process of giving up attachments.[26] (2) Significant discomfort that may arise from sudden lifestyle changes.[27] (3) The suffering that a patient may endure if medicines essential for treatment are stolen and unavailable for timely administration.[28]
From: Charaka Samhita (English translation)
(1) Severe discomfort experienced by patients, indicating serious health issues.[29]
From: Mudrarakshasa (literary study)
(1) The significant emotional distress felt by characters when reminiscing about past relationships and loss.[30]
Jain concept of 'Great pain'
Great pain in Jainism signifies intense suffering stemming from bondage to karma, affecting beings across multiple states, including hell. It emphasizes both physical and emotional distress, influenced by one's actions and worldly attachments.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) An immense suffering or distress, often resulting from harmful actions.[31] (2) The intense suffering associated with worldly life that Dridharatha seeks to overcome.[32] (3) The suffering associated with the cycle of births and worldly existence, influenced by the state of one's mind.[33] (4) The intense suffering experienced by the beings when being lifted, illustrating the physical and emotional toll of their existence.[34] (5) The intense suffering experienced by creatures due to their bondage to karma.[35]
From: Bhagavati-sutra (Viyaha-pannatti)
(1) A state of significant suffering experienced by living beings, often associated with severe distress.[36] (2) A significant degree of suffering that a soul may experience, commonly felt both while in this world and during the process of being born in hell.[37] (3) Intense suffering or discomfort that arises as a result of significant karmic consequences.[38] (4) High levels of suffering experienced by the fire-bodies due to their karma.[39] (5) An intense feeling of suffering due to bondage, particularly experienced by infernal beings in the sixth and seventh hells.[40]
From: Acaranga-sutra
(1) The significant suffering caused by the actions of beings who do not consider the consequences of their deeds.[41] (2) The suffering experienced by those who long excessively for worldly qualities.[42]
From: Uttaradhyayana Sutra
(1) The severe physical suffering experienced by the saint, emphasizing the depth of his struggles.[43]