Significance of Higher stage
The concept of Higher stage encompasses advanced levels of spiritual and cognitive development across various philosophical traditions. In Jainism, it marks a point beyond certain types of bondage and wrong beliefs through spiritual advancement. Tibetan Buddhism associates it with qualities of mercy and wisdom. Vaishnavism and Yoga describe it as an advanced devotion and enlightenment, respectively. In Vyakarana and Vedanta, it signifies profound understanding and levels of existence that transcend ordinary experience. Ultimately, in several traditions, it represents an important phase in the journey toward liberation and enlightenment.
Synonyms: Elevated level
In Dutch: Hogere fase; In Finnish: Korkeampi vaihe; In Spanish: Etapa superior
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Higher stage'
The Higher stage in Buddhism signifies advanced levels of spiritual realization and development, encompassing qualities like wisdom and mercy, achieved through practice and meditation on the path to greater understanding and spiritual attainment.
From: A Discourse on Paticcasamuppada
(1) The advanced levels of the Ariyan path, characterized by an increased dedication to good actions and contemplation.[1] (2) The advanced levels of spiritual attainment that one aims for on their path.[2]
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) Refers to advanced levels of spiritual development attained by Kisagotami after her insights.[3]
From: Introducing Buddhist Abhidhamma
(1) The advanced level of understanding achieved through Buddhist Practice and meditation.[4]
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) Pertains to a level of spiritual attainment (uttarabhumi) that allows for greater understanding or capabilities.[5]
From: Lankavatara Sutra
(1) Refers to the successive stages of realization that the Yogin experiences, culminating in advanced spiritual achievements beyond the initial stage.[6]
From: Tattvasangraha [with commentary]
(1) Indicates advanced levels of development or maturity that qualities such as mercy and wisdom can achieve, akin to the improvement observed in grains.[7]
Hindu concept of 'Higher stage'
In Hinduism, the Higher stage signifies transcendent understanding, advanced levels of existence, profound spiritual bliss, and enlightenment through mastery in practices like Pranayama and bhakti, ultimately leading to liberation and ultimate consciousness.
From: Yoga-sutras (with Bhoja’s Rajamartanda)
(1) The advanced level of Samyama practice that should be approached only after mastering the lower stages.[8]
From: Yoga-sutras (with Vyasa and Vachaspati Mishra)
(1) The advanced levels of mastery that one ascends to during the practice of Pranayama, as each state is gradually learned.[9]
From: Yoga-sutras (Ancient and Modern Interpretations)
(1) The ultimate goal in devotional practice, representing full liberation and enlightenment.[10]
From: Yoga-sutras (Vedanta Commentaries)
(1) A level of enlightenment in which identity with the object of concentration is achieved without any mixed awareness.[11]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad Bhashya Vartika
(1) The higher stages refer to levels of existence that include the Viraj and the Hiranyagarbha, which are explained in the context of their cosmic significance.[12] (2) A level of existence or consciousness that surpasses ordinary human happiness, implying a more profound or spiritual form of bliss.[13]
From: Vakyapadiya of Bhartrihari
(1) A level of understanding or cognition that transcends ordinary perceptions and distinctions, representing a more profound clarity.[14]
From: Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu
(1) Advanced levels of devotion or spiritual consciousness that can be attained through proper understanding of bhakti.[15]
Jain concept of 'Higher stage'
The "Higher stage" in Jainism signifies advanced spiritual development where specific bondages like duration and fruition-bondage cease, and wrong beliefs are effectively obstructed through practices like samvara, indicating significant progress on the spiritual path.
From: Tattvartha Sutra (with commentary)
(1) In the higher stages of spiritual development, certain types of bondage, such as duration-bondage and fruition-bondage, are no longer possible.[16]
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) Levels of spiritual advancement where wrong beliefs can be effectively blocked through samvara.[17]
The concept of Higher stage in local and regional sources
Higher stage signifies an elevated state of human consciousness that individuals can attain, reflecting an advancement in awareness and understanding during the new age, as noted by regional sources.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) A level of existence or awareness that is achieved through the understanding and practice of sacrifice.[18] (2) An advanced level of human consciousness that individuals have the chance to achieve in the new age.[19]