Significance of Hermit
The term "Hermit" in Buddhism denotes individuals who withdraw from society for spiritual pursuits. This includes royal figures who renounce worldly life to seek enlightenment alongside Buddha, as well as those practicing solitude and meditation for religious reasons. Hermits are characterized by their commitment to discipline, asceticism, and personal practice, contrasting with communal worship. Across various texts, hermits engage in rigorous purification, meditation, and devotion, leading a life focused on spiritual growth and renunciation of material attachments.
Synonyms: Recluse, Solitary, Anchorite, Eremite
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Hermit'
In Buddhism, a Hermit symbolizes individuals who renounce worldly life for spiritual enlightenment, embodying solitude, ascetic practices, and contemplation, reflecting devotion and discipline in pursuit of higher spiritual understanding.
From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) A person living in solitude for religious reasons, in this case referring to the Bodhisatta's ascetic life.[1] (2) Individuals who renounce worldly life to practice asceticism and spiritual discipline, mentioned as achieving greater spiritual heights.[2] (3) A person who has withdrawn from society to live a life of contemplation and solitude, representing the ideal of spiritual renunciation.[3]
From: Maha Buddhavamsa—The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) Over one thousand individuals living in a forest who followed the teachings of their great teacher and supported him during his sickness.[4] (2) The ascetic lifestyle adopted by Prince Maha Paduma during his time in the Himalayas.[5] (3) A solitary ascetic who discovered the floating cup and decided to care for the lump of flesh.[6]
From: Vinaya (3): The Cullavagga
(1) Monastics who practice a life of solitude and simplicity, often seeking spiritual enlightenment away from societal distractions.[7]
From: Dipavamsa (study)
(1) Individuals who withdraw from society for spiritual contemplation and ascetic practices, referenced in the chronicles.[8]
From: Blue Annals (deb-ther sngon-po)
(1) A person who lives in seclusion for spiritual reasons, such as dkon mcahog rten in the text.[9] (2) A practitioner who lives a solitary life dedicated to spiritual pursuits, representing one potential path within Buddhist practice.[10] (3) An individual who practices solitude for spiritual purposes.[11] (4) Refers to an individual who practices solitude and meditation, emphasizing the narrative's focus on the importance of personal practice and the tension between communal and solitary worship.[12]
From: Apadana commentary (Atthakatha)
(1) Refers to Bhagineyyupali in his ascetic state, who recognized the Glorious One from afar.[13] (2) A person living in seclusion, often for religious reasons, noted for their devotion and discipline.[14]
From: The Fo-Sho-Hing-Tsan-King (A Life of Buddha)
(1) Individuals, including royal princes, who gave up their worldly lives to join Buddha in the pursuit of enlightenment.[15]
Hindu concept of 'Hermit'
In Hinduism, a Hermit signifies a solitary spiritual figure, such as Vasudatta's father, who embodies purity and asceticism, dedicating their life to spiritual practices and meditation while withdrawing from societal obligations.
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) A person who has withdrawn from society to live a life of simplicity and austerity in a secluded place.[16] (2) A character archetype contrasted with the householders, indicative of someone who may live with less material need or societal attachment.[17] (3) A specific type of ascetic who lives in solitude, often focused on spiritual pursuits and serving guests.[18] (4) Individuals who live in seclusion, often for religious or spiritual reasons.[19] (5) An individual who has chosen to adopt a solitary lifestyle, aimed at spiritual practice and often characterized by reduced or modified meal intake.[20]
From: Vasistha Dharmasutra
(1) A person who chooses to live in solitude, often for religious reasons.[21]
From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)
(1) A hermit is a recluse or solitary person, often living in seclusion for religious or spiritual reasons.[22] (2) A spiritual figure, Vasudatta's father, who provides a background of purity and divine connection.[23] (3) Spiritual practitioners who seek solitude for meditation and devotion, such as those who question Naravahanadatta.[24]
From: Padma Purana
(1) An individual who lives in seclusion for religious observances, requiring more rigorous purification practices.[25]
From: Harivamsha Purana
(1) Individuals who live in seclusion often for spiritual reasons, engaging in practices such as offering oblations to fire.[26]