Significance of Independence
Independence, as understood across various philosophical and religious contexts, encompasses multiple dimensions. In Tibetan Buddhism, it signifies self-sufficiency, while in Vaishnavism, it highlights both the constraints faced by women and the intrinsic freedom of the Supreme Lord. Natyashastra emphasizes the need for students to have autonomy, whereas Dharmashastra focuses on women's perceived lack of self-reliance. Mahayana views independence as a quality of existence, contrasted with shadows. Finally, in the context of India’s history, independence signifies freedom from colonial rule and external influences, marking a birthright for nations.
Synonyms: Freedom, Autonomy, Self-sufficiency, Sovereignty, Liberty, Self-determination, Independence day, Self-reliance, Self-governance
In Dutch: Onafhankelijkheid
In Finnish: Itsenäisyys
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Independence'
Independence in Buddhism can be interpreted as self-sufficiency and self-reliance, emphasizing the importance of existing autonomously and not depending on external factors, akin to shadows that require a screen for existence.
From: Tattvasangraha [with commentary]
(1) Self-sufficiency; the condition in which something is not reliant on external factors to maintain its validity.[1]
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) The quality of existing on its own; shadows possess none, relying instead on the existence of a screen.[2]
From: Guide to Tipitaka
(1) The period following which the first Myanmar University was founded.[3]
Hindu concept of 'Independence'
In Hinduism, Independence encompasses self-reliance, freedom from external control, and the development of emotions without conflict. It reflects both the Supreme Lord's nature and the struggles faced by women seeking autonomy in decision-making.
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) The state of being free from control, which is intrinsic to the nature of the Supreme Lord.[4]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) The state of being self-sufficient and not relying on others, which the speaker feels they lack.[5]
From: Tiruvaymoli (Thiruvaimozhi): English translation
(1) The lack of freedom experienced by the speaker due to her status as a woman, leading to an inability to make autonomous choices regarding her life.[6]
From: Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu
(1) The ability of the primary rasa to thrive and develop on its own, supported by other emotions without conflict.[7]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) The condition of being self-reliant and free from control; emphasized in the text as something women should lack.[8]
From: Mudrarakshasa (literary study)
(1) The state of being free from external control or influence, particularly in the context of students' behavior and decision-making in discipline.[9]
The concept of Independence in local and regional sources
Independence signifies freedom from external control, encompassing nationalistic movements, personal identities, and the political liberation, notably India's emancipation from colonial rule, regarded as a fundamental right of nations.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) The state of being free from the control of another country, specifically India’s aspiration to break away from British rule.[10] (2) The state of self-sufficiency and freedom from societal constraints which Ramamurti longs for, reflecting his internal struggle.[11] (3) The state of being free from political control, specifically referencing India's freedom from colonial rule.[12] (4) The state of being free from external control, often linked to nationalistic or societal changes that affected various professions and personal identities.[13] (5) The condition of being free from control or influence by others, considered a birthright of every nation.[14]