Significance of Highest reality
The concept of Highest reality is detailed across various texts, including the Purana, Kavya, Vedanta, and Kavyashastra. It signifies the ultimate spiritual truth or state of being achieved through knowledge, action, and devotion, as well as the divine truth that enlightens seekers beyond the material realm. In Shaivism, Highest reality refers to Shiva, while Vedanta emphasizes the essence of Turiya, representing pure consciousness and non-duality. Ultimately, it embodies the realization of the true nature of existence and self.
Synonyms: Ultimate truth, Supreme reality, Absolute reality, Final truth, Highest truth
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Highest reality'
In Hinduism, the highest reality signifies the ultimate truth beyond ordinary perception, encompassing pure consciousness, spiritual enlightenment, and the essence of existence, as realized in Turiya and represented by divine principles like Shiva and Atman.
From: Mandukya Upanishad (Gaudapa Karika and Shankara Bhashya)
(1) The ultimate truth or essence of existence that is beyond the illusions presented by the act of creation.[1] (2) The ultimate truth of self, which is realized by merging with the Self.[2] (3) The ultimate understanding of Reality that one becomes firm in upon realizing Turiya.[3] (4) The ultimate truth or existence, beyond all categories of understanding and perception.[4] (5) The concept that consciousness or mind is the ultimate substance common to both dream and waking experiences.[5]
From: Brahma Sutras (Ramanuja)
(1) The utmost truth or existence beyond the material world, which the Bhagavata and Pancaratra aim to elucidate and worship.[6] (2) The purest form of existence as indicated by texts focusing on Narayana, contrasted against various conflicting beliefs.[7]
From: Mandukya Upanishad
(1) This refers to Nonduality, which is considered the ultimate truth and unchanging essence of existence.[8]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad Bhashya Vartika
(1) Brahman is referred to as the Supreme or Highest entity, which transcends all causal relationships.[9]
From: Matsya Purana (critical study)
(1) Refers to Shiva as the ultimate aspect of reality in Shaivism, emphasizing his supreme nature.[10] (2) The ultimate spiritual truth or state of being that is sought through the combined paths of knowledge, action, and devotion.[11]
From: Skanda Purana
(1) The ultimate truth or divine principle, enlightening seekers about spiritual understanding beyond the material world.[12]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) Refers to the ultimate truth of existence and the divine nature of the Devi, who transcends all aspects of life.[13]
From: Bhishma Charitra
(1) The ultimate truth or state that the king is expected to meet upon his death.[14] (2) The ultimate truth or state of being that king Shantanu realized as he left the physical world.[15]
From: Kavyamimamsa of Rajasekhara (Study)
(1) In Abhinavagupta's philosophy, this term refers to Shiva, who symbolizes the ultimate state of existence and consciousness.[16]