Significance of Material contact
Material contact in Vaishnavism signifies the interactions and attachments individuals have with the physical world that can detract from their spiritual essence and self-realization. It encompasses engagements that lead to distractions, ignorance, and attachment to earthly ties, posing challenges to spiritual growth. Additionally, material contacts may involve associations with the physical body that concern practitioners, while also including actions that could hinder one's path to spiritual elevation. This concept underscores the struggle between worldly distractions and the pursuit of a divine relationship.
Synonyms: Physical contact, Tangible contact, Material interaction, Physical engagement, Tangible interface
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Material contact'
Material contact in Buddhism signifies asymmetrical interactions between European and Asian cultures, particularly concerning theatrical traditions and intellectual exchanges.
From: Hualin International Journal of Buddhist Studies
(1) Manifestations of this and intellectual contact and asymmetrical interactions between European stages and Asian cultures and theatrical traditions.[1]
Hindu concept of 'Material contact'
Material contact in Hinduism highlights the interactions with the physical world that can degrade spiritual essence, foster attachment, and lead to ignorance, hindering true self-realization and spiritual progress as emphasized by the Alvar's prayers for liberation.
From: Tiruvaymoli (Thiruvaimozhi): English translation
(1) This refers to the Alvar's connections to the physical world, which the Lord severed to facilitate his spiritual journey, symbolizing liberation from earthly attachments.[2] (2) Physical connections or relations that tie beings to the earthly realm.[3] (3) The association with the physical body, which poses a potential for mischief and is a source of concern for the Alvar.[4] (4) Interactions and attachments to the physical and worldly aspects of life that the Alvar prays to be freed from to achieve spiritual elevation.[5] (5) The physical interactions or connections that the Lord severed as part of establishing a divine relationship.[6]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) The interactions and attachments to the physical world that degrade the spiritual essence of the individual.[7]
From: Vakyapadiya of Bhartrihari
(1) The relationship between the balance and the material being weighed, highlighting the interaction that dictates how transformations are understood.[8]