Significance of Imperishable
The concept of Imperishable appears across various philosophical and religious traditions in India, signifying an eternal and unchanging essence. In Jainism and Vaishnavism, it refers to states or entities that cannot be destroyed. Puranas associate it with divine figures like Shri Rama, highlighting their eternal nature. Vedanta links Imperishable to Brahman, the ultimate reality that transcends physical existence. Similarly, in other traditions like Shaivism and Mahayana, it describes the enduring nature of divine and spiritual qualities. Overall, Imperishable embodies the idea of timeless existence beyond decay or destruction.
Synonyms: Eternal, Everlasting, Indestructible, Lasting, Timeless, Immortal., Immortal
In Dutch: Onvergankelijk; In Finnish: Katoamaton; In Spanish: Imperecedero; In German: Unvergänglich; In Swedish: Oförgänglig; In Malay: Tidak rosak
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Imperishable'
In Buddhism, the term Imperishable signifies eternal qualities that do not change or decay, particularly emphasizing the lasting impact of bodhisattvas' wisdom, memory, and merit accumulation, which remain vibrant over time.
From: Akshayamatinirdesha [english]
(1) Imperishable describes the characteristics of the bodhisattvas’ accumulations of merit and knowledge, implying their enduring nature.[1] (2) This term describes the enduring nature of both the memory and eloquence of the bodhisattvas, indicating that these qualities do not diminish or fade over time.[2] (3) Describing something that is enduring or eternal, not subject to decay or change.[3]
Hindu concept of 'Imperishable'
In Hinduism, "Imperishable" signifies the eternal, unchanging essence of Brahman, the ultimate reality that transcends mortality and physical limitations, embodying the timeless nature of existence while contrasting with the transient material world.
From: Brahma Sutras (Ramanuja)
(1) Points to Brahman's nature as unaffected by change, decay, or destruction.[4] (2) A concept within the text representing Brahman, which exists beyond physical characteristics and embodies eternal qualities.[5] (3) Describes the eternal and unchanging nature of the highest being or Brahman, as referenced in meditative practices.[6] (4) An eternal state of existence attributed to Brahman, which is unaffected by the material changes of the universe.[7] (5) Refers to Brahman, described as eternal and unchangeable, which supports that which is the end of ether.[8]
From: Brahma Sutras (Shankaracharya)
(1) The Imperishable is the source of all beings, which forms the general topic of discussion, and the knowledge of the Imperishable is the knowledge of Brahman, which is to be comprehended.[9] (2) According to the text, the Imperishable is exclusively Brahman, and it is the only entity that supports all things, from the beginning up to the ether.[10] (3) Brahman, which supports all things up to ether.[11] (4) The eternal aspect of Brahman highlighted in discussions about the fundamental nature of reality.[12]
From: Prashna Upanishad (Madhva commentary)
(1) That which is eternal and beyond transient existence; knowing this leads to becoming the knower of the all.[13]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad
(1) A description of Brahman, indicating that it transcends mortality and physical constraints, remaining everlasting and unchanging.[14]
From: Mundaka Upanishad (Madhva commentary)
(1) The eternal and unchanging essence that underlies the entire universe and existence itself.[15]
From: Mundaka Upanishad with Shankara’s Commentary
(1) Imperishable denotes the quality of being eternal and unaffected by time, associated with the ultimate reality of Brahman.[16]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) Something that is enduring and cannot be destroyed or diminished.[17]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Shastri)
(1) A title used to describe Shri Rama, suggesting his eternal nature and divine power.[18]
From: Vishnu Purana
(1) A term used in the narrative to describe Brahma, indicating the eternal nature of the supreme soul beyond the cycles of creation and destruction.[19]
From: Hiranyakesi-grihya-sutra
(1) Describes what is eternal and undying; in this context, referring to the essence of the offerings made.[20]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) Denotes the Original Cause or the Conscious Being, representing an unchangeable entity that endures through Universal Dissolution.[21]
From: Baudhayana Dharmasutra
(1) A term referring to the enduring nature of spiritual offerings that connect the living with their ancestors.[22]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) Refers to avyaya, meaning that which cannot be destroyed or diminished.[23]
Jain concept of 'Imperishable'
In Jainism, "Imperishable" describes a state of existence that remains indestructible and unchangeable, emphasizing the eternal nature of certain truths or spiritual realities that persist beyond physical or material influences.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) Referring to a state that cannot be destroyed or diminished.[24]
The concept of Imperishable in local and regional sources
Imperishable denotes the eternal and unchanging essence of the supreme Being, highlighting divinity's characteristic of enduring existence, free from decay or deterioration. It encapsulates the concept of timelessness within spiritual beliefs.
From: Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints
(1) Refers to the eternal and unchanging nature of the supreme Being.[25] (2) A characteristic of the divine that signifies eternity and the inability to perish or decay.[26]