Significance of Karmabhumi
Karmabhumi in Jainism signifies the realm of action where humans perform deeds that influence their spiritual journey. It includes specific regions within Jambudvipa crucial for spiritual actions and liberation. This term reflects places where Tirthankaras are born to share teachings and where actions lead to karmic consequences, shaping beings’ existence. In broader contexts, Karmabhumi describes the earth as a land of actions, emphasizing the connection between human deeds, spiritual practices, and their impacts on destiny, particularly regarding India’s rich cultural and moral landscape.
Synonyms: Karma, Duty, Work, Field of action
In Dutch: Karmabhumi; In Finnish: Karmabhumi; In Spanish: Karmabhumi
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Karmabhumi'
Karmabhumi in Hinduism is interpreted as the land where human actions occur, specifically Bharata, encompassing moral deeds, spiritual practices, and the realization of karma's consequences, ultimately influencing one's destiny and spiritual journey.
From: Skanda Purana
(1) Refers to the earth as a land of actions and consequences, where merits and sins manifest.[1] (2) The 'Land of righteous acts' where human deeds and spiritual practices play a crucial role in determining one's destiny.[2]
From: Gautami Mahatmya
(1) The land of holy rites where worship of the lord of Yajnas is performed.[3] (2) The Earth where one can perform holy rites and enjoy their fruits.[4]
From: Matsya Purana (critical study)
(1) The land where human actions and activities take place, specifically referring to Bharata.[5]
From: Lalitopakhyana (Lalita Mahatmya)
(1) The land where actions (karma) are performed and its consequences are realized.[6]
Jain concept of 'Karmabhumi'
Karmabhumi in Jainism signifies locations where individuals can achieve liberation through their actions. It encompasses realms tied to karma, crucial for spiritual activities, the birth of Tirthankaras, and the pursuit of merit or demerit.
From: Yogadrstisamuccaya of Haribhadra Suri (Study)
(1) The locations described in Jainism where distinguished individuals can be born and attain liberation during their lifetime.[7] (2) Fields of action within Jainism where Tirthankaras are believed to take birth and share teachings.[8] (3) Fields of action where Tirthankaras can be born and propagate the path of liberation.[9]
From: Bhagavati-sutra (Viyaha-pannatti)
(1) The zone of spiritual activity from where certain types of poisonous beings can be born, specifically those of the human type.[10] (2) The land or realm characterized by the possibilities of karma and spiritual activities, critical to human experience.[11]
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) Specified regions within the continents Jambudvipa that are important for spiritual actions and attaining liberation, differentiated from others like the Devakurus.[12]
From: Tattvartha Sutra (with commentary)
(1) This term refers to the regions associated with labour and karmic activity, essential for acquiring merit and demerit.[13]
From: Uttaradhyayana Sutra
(1) The realm of action where humans live and perform deeds, thereby impacting their spiritual journey.[14]
From: Sutrakritanga (English translation)
(1) A realm associated with actions and the consequences of those actions, playing a significant role in the birth and existence of beings.[15]
The concept of Karmabhumi in local and regional sources
Karmabhumi embodies India as a dynamic intersection of action and responsibility, where spiritual and moral principles merge with cultural and political contexts, emphasizing the nation's role in shaping ethical societal frameworks.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) A term conveying the sacredness of the land of India, emphasizing its spiritual and cultural significance.[16] (2) The notion of India as a crucible of action and responsibility, where spiritual and moral values intersect with the cultural and political realities of society.[17]