Significance of Individual
The keyphrase "Individual" encompasses various interpretations across different philosophical and religious traditions. In Tibetan Buddhism, it signifies both a unique entity within a broader classification and specific recognized instances. Vaishnavism views the Individual as a person experiencing emotional states related to rasa. Vyakarana refers to Individuals as entities represented in plural forms and subjects of philosophical inquiry. Mahayana emphasizes the Individual as a distinct person with an identity, while Theravada categorizes Individuals based on spiritual attainments and communication.
Synonyms: Person, Being, Entity, Character, Human, Soul, Personality, Single
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Individual'
In Buddhism, "Individual" (pudgala) denotes a distinct identity in contrast to no self (anatta), encompasses specific monks, recognizes entities for communication, categorizes spiritual paths, and represents a unique entity within a broader Universal context.
From: Tattvasangraha [with commentary]
(1) Specific instances or examples that represent the universal 'ga', which, according to the argument, cannot serve as the basis for representing or understanding the universal concept.[1] (2) A singular entity that embodies unique characteristics while also being part of a broader classification or Universal.[2] (3) An aspect that is inseparable from the Universal; the text posits that the cognition of the Individual arises directly from words, making the acknowledgment of its relevance necessary for practical actions.[3] (4) The unique entity through which concepts like Gender, Number, and Action are discussed.[4] (5) Particular entities or instances that are recognized and perceived.[5]
From: Vinaya Pitaka (3): Khandhaka
(1) Specific monks being considered or evaluated in the context of seeking leave or reproval.[6]
From: A Manual of Abhidhamma
(1) The section that categorizes different spiritual attainments and types of beings on the path to enlightenment.[7]
From: Guide to Tipitaka
(1) The focus of the second type of conventional terms, referring to persons or entities that are essential for communication but do not exist as absolute realities.[8]
From: Patthanuddesa Dipani
(1) A single sentient being that embodies the various material qualities in relation to the external world.[9]
From: The Great Chariot
(1) The individual is the person who establishes true samadhi, playing a critical role in the process.[10]
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) The concept (pudgala) of a person with a distinct identity or self, often in opposition to the notion of no self (anatta).[11]
Hindu concept of 'Individual'
In Hinduism, the term "Individual" encompasses a single person's emotional experiences, distinct beings examined in philosophical contexts, separate entities indicating plurality, and specific references exemplified by the term 'brahmana'.
From: Vakyapadiya of Bhartrihari
(1) A specific person or example that the term 'brahmana' might refer to when interpreted in a particular way.[12] (2) The specific instances or entities that derive their existence from eternal substrata.[13] (3) Distinct entities or beings that are subjects of philosophical inquiry regarding their relationship to universals.[14] (4) Refers to specific entities or instances that are recognized as separate but are collectively tied to the universal concept.[15] (5) The separate entities that the plural number denotes when expressing plurality.[16]
From: Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu
(1) A single person whose emotional states and experiences are being referred to in the context of attaining rasa.[17]