Significance of Immortal
The concept of Immortal is explored across various belief systems such as Hinduism, Jainism, Vaishnavism, and Buddhism, each attributing unique characteristics to eternal existence. In Hinduism, Immortal signifies beings that achieve eternal life through rituals and divine attributes. Jainism presents it as the essence of Siddhartha, while Vaishnavism emphasizes the eternal forms of the Supreme Lord. Buddhism, particularly in Mahayana and Theravada traditions, equates Immortal with Nirvana, representing the ultimate goal transcending material existence. Overall, Immortal encapsulates the idea of eternal beings and the pursuit of lasting existence through spiritual practices.
Synonyms: Eternal, Everlasting, Undying, Unending, Imperishable, Deathless, Ageless, Timeless, Infinite, Perennial
In Malay: Abadi; In Dutch: Onsterfelijk; In Finnish: Kuolematon; In Spanish: Inmortal; In German: Unsterblich; In Swedish: Odödlig; In French: Immortel; In Portugese: Imortal; In Italian: Immortale; In Polish: Nieśmiertelny
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Immortal'
In Buddhism, "Immortal" signifies transcending death and the material world, achieving nirvana, and embodying eternal truths, often linked to celestial beings and the ultimate goal of spiritual liberation from the cycle of rebirth.
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) A state or realization in Buddhism sought by practitioners, often equated with achieving nirvana.[1] (2) A term that refers to a state or being that embodies immortality, the search for which drives the friends' quest.[2] (3) A concept referring to a state beyond the usual life and death cycle, often associated with an eternal truth or reality.[3]
From: Mahavastu (great story)
(1) Celestial beings revered in Buddhist tradition, often associated with divine attributes and powers.[4] (2) Celestial beings often referred to in context with their purity and eternal existence.[5] (3) The realization of transcending death and material existence, which is treasured over living a long life without such awareness.[6]
From: Shurangama Sutra (with commentary) (English)
(1) One of the forms that womb-born beings can take, often associated with eternal existence beyond normal life cycles.[7]
From: Vinaya (2): The Mahavagga
(1) The immortal, also known as Amata, has been won by the Tathagata, who promises to teach it to the Bhikkhus.[8] (2) A state referred to in Buddhism as Nirvana, which is the ultimate goal of spiritual practice, signifying the cessation of all suffering.[9]
Hindu concept of 'Immortal'
In Hinduism, "Immortal" signifies the eternal nature of the Self or Brahman, representing a state free from death and worldly suffering. It encompasses divine beings, philosophical discussions on existence, and attributes of gods like Vishnu, highlighting profound spiritual truths.
From: Brahma Sutras (Shankaracharya)
(1) The antaryamin is expressly called the Immortal and the ruler within in every section of the chapter referring to it, showing that it is free from the shortcomings of the jiva.[10] (2) A concept of reaching a state that can be achieved by moving upwards and reaching the crown.[11] (3) A characteristic of the home of the spirits, free from fear, and reached by those who have sought the Self, as described in the text.[12] (4) The eternal nature of the unified self that transcends physical death and individual existence, as illustrated in the merging with Brahman.[13] (5) Refers to the eternal aspect of the highest Self or Brahman, indicating its timeless nature.[14]
From: Brahma Sutras (Shankara Bhashya)
(1) Immortal is a term being analyzed to determine if it refers to the Pradhana, instead of Brahman, especially due to the presence of the word ‘bridge’ in the text, which suggests a connection to something beyond.[15] (2) This is an epithet like ‘Infinite’ and ‘Self’ that shows that Akasa here refers to Brahman.[16] (3) Describing a state of existence that transcends death and decay, applicable to the spiritual self.[17] (4) The state of being free from death and the cycle of rebirth, as achieved by the knower of Brahman.[18] (5) Describes the eternal nature of the Highest Lord, contrasting with the temporary existence of the individual soul.[19]
From: Mundaka Upanishad with Shankara’s Commentary
(1) Describes the state attained upon liberation from ignorance, where one transcends the limitations of mortality and achieves eternal existence.[20] (2) This term refers to the origin of good youth, diverse jivas, which is the source from which they come into existence, as described in the provided text.[21] (3) The immortal is described as the source of all created things, serving as a fundamental essence from which the universe and all manifestations arise.[22] (4) A concept in Hindu philosophy referring to the eternal and unchanging aspect of reality, central to Para Vidya.[23] (5) Refers to something that is eternal and does not decay.[24]
From: Mandukya Upanishad
(1) Possessing the quality of being exempt from death or decay, a state that is considered potentially susceptible to transformation in the initial premise.[25] (2) Existing forever, a quality sought for the Absolute, despite the challenges posed by change.[26] (3) The text refers to an entity that possesses the quality of everlasting existence, that cannot die, and is a central point of the belief system being examined.[27] (4) Refers to beings or entities that are unchanging and eternal, not subject to mortality or death.[28]
From: Prashna Upanishad with Shankara’s Commentary
(1) Becoming one with Prana, in a relative sense, after the body ceases to exist is a state attained by the learned man.[29] (2) Refers to the state of existence that transcends physical death and individual identities, signifying eternal unity with Purusha.[30] (3) Describes the eternal aspect of the self or the ultimate truth that does not perish or return.[31] (4) The state achieved through meditation, signifying an everlasting being who has traversed through the lunar world.[32]
From: Brahma Sutras (Ramanuja)
(1) This phrase describes something that is everlasting, and is associated with the Imperishable, as per the provided text.[33] (2) A term referring to Brahman as the eternal and unchanging essence that rules over the individual souls, in contrast with their transient nature.[34] (3) A term referring to the eternal aspects of existence, represented here by air and Ether, which continue to persist.[35]
From: Chandogya Upanishad (english Translation)
(1) According to the text, Brahman is immortal, and it is also described as the Self, which is considered the inmost being residing in everyone.[36] (2) The state of being unending or everlasting, described in relation to bhuma, which transcends the limitations of mortality.[37] (3) Describes Brahman as eternal and undying, and similarly attributes these qualities to Om and akshara.[38]
From: Katha Upanishad with Shankara’s Commentary
(1) Becoming "immortal" signifies transcending the limitations of mortality through the realization of the identity between Brahman and the atman, thus ending the cycle of birth and death.[39] (2) It is the state attained by the individual who gains knowledge of the described entity through intellect, mind control, and meditation.[40] (3) This term describes beings whose age knows no decay, and are not subject to the typical limitations of mortality, possessing a state of unending existence.[41]
From: Kena Upanishad with Shankara’s Commentary
(1) A state achieved by turning away from worldly matters, as stated in the teaching of the Upanishad.[42] (2) The state of being free from death, attained through wisdom and knowledge, contrasting with the worldly cycle of birth and death.[43]
From: Chandogya Upanishad (Shankara Bhashya)
(1) A state of existence beyond physical death; a goal reached through the right pathways of the arteries.[44] (2) The Immortal is a term describing the eternal nature of Brahman, indicating that it is never subject to death.[45]
From: Thirty minor Upanishads
(1) Brahman’s eternal nature, transcending life and death.[46] (2) Indicates the everlasting nature of the Atma, free from death.[47]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad Bhashya Vartika
(1) The quality of the Witness-self that signifies its eternal nature and unchanging essence.[48] (2) Refers to the eternal nature of Brahman, which is beyond death.[49]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad
(1) Refers to the eternal aspect of existence, which can be reached through knowledge.[50]
From: Kaivalya Upanishad
(1) Refers to the Absolute as eternal and without origination, emphasizing its unchanging, everlasting nature.[51]
From: Isopanisad (Madhva commentary)
(1) The quality of being unending or eternal, particularly related to the divine or spiritual essence that does not perish.[52]
From: Kena upanishad (Madhva commentary)
(1) The state of existence beyond physical death achieved by realizing Brahman and following the teachings of a Sad Guru.[53]
From: Kathopanishad (Madhva commentary)
(1) A state of existence beyond physical death achieved through knowledge and understanding of the Supreme Being.[54]
From: Mandukya Upanishad (Gaudapa Karika and Shankara Bhashya)
(1) Possessing eternal life and not subject to death or decay.[55]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) This is a reference to those who do not know old age, as addressed to Vaka by the boon-giving slayer of Vala.[56] (2) Immortal is a characteristic of Kesava, signifying His eternal nature, and He is also described as the highest of the high.[57] (3) The immortals are unable to destroy the undying flowery and fruitful productions of the tree of the Bharata, which has a pure taste.[58] (4) These are beings who live in the celestial regions, and their state is attained through giving gold, and other pious actions.[59] (5) Refers to the celestial beings who are eternal and engage in heavenly discussions concerning worldly matters.[60]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) The text states that hearing certain things makes men become Immortals, suggesting a path to immortality.[61] (2) Beings who are deathless, such as the gods.[62] (3) Beings that are eternal and do not experience death, to whom the Devi addresses her teachings.[63] (4) Refers to the eternal aspect of the soul that persists beyond physical existence.[64] (5) Celestial beings or deities that receive the divine favor from the Mother figure described in the text.[65]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Shastri)
(1) "The Immortals" refers to beings who possess eternal life and are not subject to death, often associated with gods, deities, or celestial beings in mythology.[66] (2) A claim made by Ravana about his undying nature due to the boon received from Brahma.[67] (3) Describes the ultimate state of being which Dashagriva seeks to attain through his boons.[68]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Griffith)
(1) The Immortals conspired to distract Vishvamitra from his austerities, revealing their intervention in human affairs and their attempts to influence the outcomes of spiritual endeavors.[69] (2) The Immortals are a group who refused to hear the hermit’s call, but were later addressed by the sage to allow Trishanku's ascent, showcasing their role in the celestial events.[70] (3) These are beings who participated in the churning of the sea and are referred to as such in the text.[71]
From: Harivamsha Purana
(1) The son of whom Jayanta was, to whom the son of Narayana spoke about prowess in battle, according to the text.[72] (2) The gods who are engaging in the quest against Bali and are considered eternal beings.[73]
From: Vishnu Purana
(1) The beings who consume the ambrosia from the moon during its growth and wane, benefitting from the sun's influence.[74] (2) Refers to Krishna and Balarama, highlighting their divine nature and connection to the spiritual realm while they engage in earthly activities.[75]
From: Gautami Mahatmya
(1) A state of being that the nectar could grant, which the Devas sought to control against their enemies.[76] (2) Represents beings who cannot die, a concept introduced inquired by the Devas when discussing the ramifications of Shiva's powers.[77]
From: Markandeya Purana
(1) Candika pierced Nishumbha, the afflicter of the Immortals, in the heart with a dart as he approached with dart in hand.[78] (2) Refers to the gods who are eternal and divine beings, including deities like Shiva, Vishnu, and Brahma.[79]
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) The gods who reside in heaven and possess eternal life, representing divine beings in the narrative.[80]
From: Sanatsujatiya (English translation)
(1) The text suggests that immortality is attained by those who apprehend the divine through understanding, mind, and heart, and also by avoiding death.[81]
From: Prem Sagar (English translation)
(1) A state of living forever, associated with Hirunkusyp's son, emphasizing his renown and power.[82] (2) A term describing Jurasindhu's resistance to death, due to the nature of his birth.[83] (3) A state attributed to Pounrik's supposed existence, mentioned in the context of the lamentations of his wives.[84]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) The quality of not being subject to death, achieved by the body through the nectar, according to the text.[85] (2) Refers to the eternal nature of the Supreme Lord's forms, which do not experience birth or death.[86]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) The immortal, known as Akshara, corresponds to the letter a in the Sanskrit verse, emphasizing the concept of timelessness associated with the letter.[87]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) Immortal is another attribute of the 'birth' conferred by the Preceptor, emphasizing its eternal nature and significance beyond the mortal realm.[88] (2) A state achieved through contributing knowledge and education, thereby leading to enduring recognition or legacy.[89] (3) The state attained by those who successfully commit to life-long studentship and service to the teacher.[90]
From: Bharadvaja-srauta-sutra
(1) Describes the enduring nature of the Mahavira and its divine attributes.[91] (2) Referring to eternal beings or deities that are central to the beliefs and practices outlined in the text.[92]
From: Satapatha-brahmana
(1) Describes an element or aspect that is undecaying and not subject to death, represented by vital airs like out-breathing, downward breathing, through-breathing, upward breathing and central breathing.[93] (2) Refers to the eternal and unchanging nature of Prajapati, contrasting with mortality.[94] (3) The state achieved by those who perform the proper sacrifices and rites.[95]
From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)
(1) The ultimate desire of the brothers, representing their wish to evade death, which was denied to them but modified to allow them to choose a form of death.[96]
From: Bharadvaja-srauta-sutra
(1) Immortal is used in the Agnidhra's response, characterizing the waters and their role in the ritual's context.[97]
Jain concept of 'Immortal'
In Jainism, "Immortal" signifies the eternal essence of Siddhartha, contrasting with mortal beings like Kanakavati, highlighting the belief in enduring existence beyond physical life and the permanence of spiritual essence.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) A being who lives forever, as opposed to mortal beings like Kanakavati.[98] (2) Describing the enduring and ever-present nature of the Siddhartha's essence.[99]
The concept of Immortal in local and regional sources
The keyphrase "Immortal" encompasses concepts of eternal existence, timeless legacies, and revered figures. It highlights both physical immortality, as with the tree, and the lasting impacts of influential individuals like Gandhi, showcasing a deep spiritual significance.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) This concept is connected to the idea of humans being sons of something, possessing a living spark from a fiery body.[100] (2) It refers to something that can be thought of as remaining of man in any way, even after his body wears away and is dissolved.[101] (3) The tree was taken to be immortal by all without anybody having to be told about it, indicating the tree's perceived eternal nature and its central place in the villagers' beliefs.[102] (4) Divine beings or celestial entities considered unending in their existence, often worshipped in devotional practices.[103] (5) Referring to Gandhi's lasting legacy and influence, indicating that he is now part of a revered and eternal group of figures.[104]
From: Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints
(1) Beings who are not bound by death and long for deeper, spiritual sustenance beyond physical pleasures.[105] (2) Refers to beings that are not subject to death or mortality, highlighting the transient nature of worldly desires.[106]
From: Sanskrit Words In Southeast Asian Languages
(1) This English word describes a state of being that does not die and lives forever, related to the word Amrta, as described in the provided text.[107]
From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda
(1) The immortal is the eternal one, the deathless one, the sleepless one, ever awake, whose glory never dies, whose powers never fail, according to the text.[108]
The concept of Immortal in scientific sources
Immortal, in this context, pertains to Taoist elements like immortals, cultivation techniques, spirits, and ordinary people within the art of the bedchamber, reflecting the secularization of Taoism.
From: Religions Journal (MDPI)
(1) Immortals, along with cultivation technique, spirits, and ordinary people, are Taoist elements in the art of the bedchamber, emphasizing its reflection of the secularization of Taoism.[109]
Classical concept of 'Immortal'
From: The Argonautica (English translation)
(1) Beings, one of whom gave a gift when meeting someone, according to a prophecy.[110] (2) The immortals are referenced when the text states that the sons of kings were of the blood of the immortals, suggesting their ability to take on such a difficult task.[111] (3) The immortals are invoked to grant a perfect life, joy, children, and the glory of a city unravaged, indicating a belief in divine influence over human affairs.[112] (4) These beings are the ancestors of the comrades, highlighting the divine heritage and legendary status of the group accompanying the man.[113] (5) Entities to whom one should yield if a dove perishes midway, as it is better to avoid an evil doom from the rocks.[114]
From: The Odyssey of Homer (English translation)
(1) Scylla is not mortal, and the protagonist is warned that he will not let himself be beaten even by the "immortals", highlighting the supernatural and invincible nature of the monster.[115] (2) The immortals are beings from heaven whom Alcinous suggests Ulysses might be, though Ulysses denies this, claiming he is merely afflicted.[116] (3) An immortal being describes Calypso, emphasizing her divine status and the contrast between her and the mortal Ulysses.[117] (4) It is a term used to describe Nestor, as he has reigned for three generations and is considered wise.[118]
From: The Iliad of Homer (English translation)
(1) A group of divine beings, engage in discussions and debates about mortal affairs, expressing varying opinions and influencing events based on personal sentiments and past grievances.[119] (2) This describes the steeds of Achilles, given to his father Peleus by Neptune, excelling all others in the chariot races.[120] (3) The Trojans offered unblemished hecatombs to them, and the wind carried the sweet savour of sacrifice to heaven.[121]
From: The History of Herodotus
(1) The Immortals are a special group of Persian soldiers, led by Hydarnes, who replaced the Medes in battle but could not overcome the Hellenes.[122] (2) The "Immortals" were a select group of ten thousand chosen Persians, maintained at a constant number by replacing those lost to death or disease, showing their elite status.[123] (3) A characteristic attributed to the soul of man, which, according to the Egyptians, enters into another creature after the body dies.[124]
From: Aesop's Fables (English translation)
(1) The state of being immortal is attributed to the Amaranth, which never fades and blooms forever in renewed youth, a stark contrast to the Rose's fleeting existence.[125]
From: Ancient Egypt the Light of the World
(1) Child-Horus is the mortal and Horus in spirit the immortal, representing the mortal and immortal aspects blended in the mystery of Tattu.[126] (2) A spirit that lived for ever was now the supreme type of the human soul, with the king who never dies impersonating something in man.[127]
From: Egyptian Magic
(1) The document explains that the Egyptian declared that he was immortal and believed that he would enjoy eternal life in a spiritual body after death.[128]
From: The Gods of the Egyptians Vol 1
(1) It is a state of being, achieved by the dead king, becoming a god with supreme power, although his heart's seat remains among those living on earth.[129]