Significance of Impermanent
Impermanent in Tibetan Buddhism highlights the transient nature of all phenomena, emphasizing that nothing endures over time. This concept is illustrated through examples, such as the jar represented by a lamp. In Mahayana tradition, impermanence leads to deeper insights about the fleeting nature of life and material possessions. Similarly, Theravada Buddhism stresses that everything, including life and death, is impermanent, captured in the term Anicca. Understanding impermanence is crucial in grasping the concepts of dukkha and the teachings of the Buddha on suffering.
Synonyms: Transient, Short-lived, Ephemeral, Momentary, Unstable, Evanescent
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Impermanent'
In Buddhism, "Impermanent" highlights the transient nature of all things, illustrating that life, death, and material wealth are not enduring. It emphasizes the concept of Anicca, essential for understanding dukkha and the nature of suffering.
From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) The understanding that all things, including life and death, are transient, highlighted by the landowner's realization.[1]
From: Abhidhamma in Daily Life
(1) A characteristic of all conditioned realities, indicating that they arise and cease with changes.[2]
From: Guide to Tipitaka
(1) Anicca, a characteristic of phenomena in Abhidhamma that highlights their transient nature.[3]
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) Referring to the transient nature of all things, key in the understanding of dukkha and the Buddha's teachings on suffering.[4]
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) The quality of all phenomena in Buddhism according to Ananda's understanding, leading to the insight presented by Purna Maitrayaniputra.[5] (2) An important Buddhist concept indicating the transient nature of life and material wealth.[6]
From: Tattvasangraha [with commentary]
(1) Describes a quality of being transient or not enduring over time, illustrated through the example of a jar manifested by a lamp.[7]