Significance of Longing
Longing is a multifaceted concept in various spiritual traditions. In Jainism, it signifies a commitment to spiritual learning and the absence of desires, enhancing spiritual engagement. Tibetan Buddhism views Longing as emotional attachment driven by desire. Vaishnavism highlights deep yearning for a deity, illustrated in various texts, including personal affections. The Purana context describes Longing as spiritual aspirations and attachments individuals aim to transcend. In Kavyashastra and Dharmashastra, Longing reflects intense emotions that must be controlled for spiritual purity and balance.
Synonyms: Desire, Yearning, Craving, Aspiration, Want, Nostalgia, Hankering, Wish, Urge
In Dutch: Verlangen; In Finnish: Kaipuu; In Spanish: Anhelo
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Longing'
In Buddhism, Longing signifies an emotional attachment driven by intense desire for someone or something, emphasizing the idea that such attachments can lead to suffering and hinder spiritual growth.
From: Tattvasangraha [with commentary]
(1) A type of emotional attachment characterized by a strong desire for something or someone.[1]
Hindu concept of 'Longing'
In Hinduism, Longing signifies intense emotional desires or yearnings, particularly felt by devotees towards their deities. It encompasses the yearning for spiritual connection, transcending attachments, and achieving purity through spiritual practices.
From: Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu
(1) A powerful feeling experienced by Bali that causes him to become unsteady.[2] (2) A feeling of intense desire or yearning, as illustrated in the context of the Narada-pancaratra.[3] (3) The intense emotional state characterized by a profound desire for someone or something.[4]
From: Bhajana-Rahasya
(1) The deep, yearning feeling experienced by devotees when they are separated from their beloved deity.[5]
From: Chaitanya Mangala
(1) Desires reflecting the deep affection and yearning the bride feels for her divine husband.[6]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) an intense feeling of wanting or yearning, particularly in a spiritual context[7]
From: Padma Purana
(1) Desires or attachments that individuals seek to transcend through spiritual practice.[8]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) Longings refer to deep desires or spiritual aspirations that individuals seek to fulfill through practices and knowledge.[9]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) Desires or cravings that one must be free from, to attain purity in thought and action.[10] (2) Intense desires or yearnings, which should be absent in the individual to maintain a balanced mindset.[11]
From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)
(1) The intense emotional desire that Usha feels for Aniruddha after her dream about him.[12]
From: Sahitya-kaumudi by Baladeva Vidyabhushana
(1) The emotion experienced by Hari, characterized by a strong desire or yearning as described in the text.[13]
Jain concept of 'Longing'
In Jainism, Longing reflects both the absence of desires that enables deeper spiritual engagement and the ascetics' fervent aspiration to follow Gautama, highlighting their dedication to spiritual growth and learning.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) The deep desire expressed by the ascetics to follow Gautama, signifying their commitment to spiritual learning.[14]
From: Yogadrstisamuccaya of Haribhadra Suri (Study)
(1) Desires or cravings that the practitioner lacks, allowing for a more profound engagement in spiritual pursuits.[15]
The concept of Longing in local and regional sources
Longing encapsulates the writer's deep emotions and desires, serving as a powerful symbol of their innermost feelings expressed through their writing. It conveys a profound yearning and connection to their experiences.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) The emotions or desires that the writer expresses through writing, symbolizing his innermost feelings.[16]