Significance of Kaivalya
Kaivalya, in Hinduism, signifies a state of absolute liberation and isolation, achieved through yoga practices and self-realization. It is viewed differently across various philosophies, such as Vaishnavism, where it is seen as merging with Brahman, and Shaktism, which associates it with ultimate freedom from the cycle of birth and death. In Yoga, Kaivalya represents the soul's return to its true essence, free from ignorance. Overall, it encompasses a concept of spiritual liberation and the realization of the true self.
Synonyms: Moksha, Liberation, Enlightenment, Self-realization, Transcendence, Freedom., Emancipation, Spiritual freedom
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Kaivalya'
Kaivalya in Hinduism represents the ultimate liberation and realization of the true self, achieved through separation from material existence and ignorance, leading to oneness with the Supreme and freedom from the cycle of rebirth.
From: Thirty minor Upanishads
(1) Kaivalya denotes the state of ultimate liberation and realization of Brahman, where the individual does not return to worldly existence after attaining this state.[1] (2) The state of isolation or liberation attained through yogic practices, resulting in the cessation of the mind's fluctuations and a direct realization of truth.[2] (3) The supreme seat that provides emancipation and separates one from the snare of maya.[3] (4) The state of liberation or ultimate freedom from the cycle of rebirth.[4] (5) The ultimate goal in ascetic practice, representing absolute liberation and oneness with the Self.[5]
From: Prasthanatrayi Swaminarayan Bhashyam (Study)
(1) Liberation or moksha, referring to the state of being free from worldly attachments.[6] (2) A concept in Indian thought that signifies 'aloneness' resulting from the destruction of all bonds, contributing to the state of liberation.[7] (3) The liberation or ultimate realization sought after in Samkhya philosophy through understanding the distinctions between entities.[8]
From: Shiva Gita (study and summary)
(1) The absolute release resulting from true knowledge of reality, reflecting complete unity with one’s own self.[9] (2) The absolute release resulting from true knowledge of reality, becoming one with oneself.[10] (3) The state of isolation from the senses and the world, representing complete transcendence and self-realization in Brahman.[11]
From: Kaivalya Upanishad
(1) The solitary realization of the concept of Alone, indicating a deep understanding of one's own singular existence.[12]
From: Yoga-sutras (Ancient and Modern Interpretations)
(1) State of liberation achieved when the individual self (purusha) recognizes its true nature, beyond the distractions of the mind.[13] (2) The principal objective of concentration, representing a state of liberation or spiritual independence.[14] (3) Kaivalya is the state of liberation or ultimate release in Yogadarshana, where the pure soul becomes separate from the material existence, facilitated by the cessation of ignorance (avidya).[15] (4) The state of ultimate liberation from prakriti, considered the final attainment in Sankhya philosophy.[16] (5) The ultimate goal to be attained, representing liberation or independence, which requires overcoming existing karmas and vasanas.[17]
From: Yoga-sutras (with Vyasa and Vachaspati Mishra)
(1) The perfect freedom or liberation aimed at through yogic practices.[18] (2) A state similar to absolute freedom that the Videhas experience while functioning within their own potencies.[19] (3) Final emancipation or liberation, signifying the realization by an individual of their separation from mind-matter.[20]
From: Yoga-sutras (with Bhoja’s Rajamartanda)
(1) The term referring to the state of isolation or solitude of the soul from ignorance, suggesting a higher understanding of existence.[21] (2) A term denoting isolation or spiritual liberation, signifying the soul's return to its true essence, free from the influences of evil.[22]
From: Laghu-yoga-vasistha
(1) Emancipation or the ultimate state of self-realization, where one attains complete liberation from the cycle of birth and death.[23] (2) Kaivalya signifies the state of aloneness or isolation from the distractions of the world, aligning oneself with the nonduality of existence.[24] (3) The state of liberation that is achieved through the destruction of ignorance and the individual mind.[25] (4) Kaivalya denotes final liberation, where the duality of existence and the concept of Ahamkara are transcended.[26] (5) Absolute freedom or independence achieved through realization of the Self.[27]
From: Skanda Purana
(1) The state of ultimate liberation and spiritual freedom, often represented as the highest goal of human existence.[28] (2) A state of salvation or ultimate liberation, which Kalanemi desires for his next birth, highlighting the theme of spiritual aspiration.[29]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) A term referring to the state of merging into the existence of the Lord, which is the goal of certain yogis who seek unity with the divine.[30] (2) The state of merging into the existence of Brahman, which, according to the text, is seen as undesirable by those blessed with the merciful glance of Shri Caitanya.[31]
From: Tiruvaymoli (Thiruvaimozhi): English translation
(1) A concept of liberation or isolation in spiritual terms, viewed as a lesser goal compared to seeking the Lord.[32] (2) A state of self-enjoyment or liberation that is considered less valuable if it is pursued for personal desire.[33]
From: Sri Krishna-Chaitanya
(1) The state considered the ultimate goal in certain philosophies where the individual self is merged with the divine.[34]
From: Shakti and Shakta
(1) The ultimate state of liberation or freedom from the cycle of birth and death, often associated with profound realization of self.[35]
From: Varahi Tantra (English Study)
(1) A term representing the ultimate state of liberation referenced in Tantras.[36]
From: The Sarva-Darsana-Samgraha
(1) The state of absolute liberation and isolation achieved through yoga practices, leading to the soul's realization of its true nature.[37]
From: Lakulisha-Pashupata (Philosophy and Practice)
(1) The state of perfect isolation achieved through philosophical systems such as Samkhya and Yoga, which Kaundinya contrasts with the goals of the Pasupata system.[38]
From: Vakyapadiya (study of the concept of Sentence)
(1) A term associated with liberation or isolation in Sankhya philosophy, hinting at aspects related to intuitive consciousness.[39]