Significance of Mental object
Mental object is a multifaceted concept present across various traditions, including Buddhism, Purana, Ayurveda, Vyakarana, Vedanta, Theravada, and Science. In Buddhism, it encompasses thoughts, sensations, and experiences processed by the mind, as well as objects of focus in meditation, contributing to the cycle of samsara. Other traditions define mental objects as concepts that shape perceptions, while Science identifies them as entities vital for mental processes. Overall, the notion of mental objects highlights their significance in understanding consciousness and meditation practices.
Synonyms: Concept, Mental representation, Abstraction, Imagery.
In Dutch: Mentaal object
In Finnish: Mentaalinen kohde
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Mental object'
In Buddhism, the keyphrase "Mental object" encompasses various interpretations, including meditation focus, thoughts and desires, and elements essential for attaining jhana, reflecting the multifaceted nature of mental activity and awareness.
From: Visuddhimagga (the pah of purification)
(1) Concepts or phenomena that the mind can focus on during meditation, contributing to the attainment of jhana.[1] (2) A technical term used to represent dhamma when classified as one of the twelve bases or eighteen elements.[2] (3) The aspect of awareness that relates to thoughts or formations present in one’s mind, which gives rise to conscious experience.[3]
From: Maha Buddhavamsa—The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) The focus of meditation and concentration, specifically Nibbana in this context, which one should aim to achieve.[4]
From: Vinaya Pitaka (3): Khandhaka
(1) Concepts or principles upon which a monk who has been reproved should rely, specifically truth and being imperturbable.[5]
From: Catusacca Dipani
(1) Mental-object refers to the concepts and ideas that arise in the mind, categorized under the mind-base.[6]
From: Introducing Buddhist Abhidhamma
(1) An object of awareness that is perceived through the mind, falling into one of the categories of sense objects.[7]
From: A Discourse on Paticcasamuppada
(1) Elements that arise when we reflect, which are essential for mental activity to occur.[8]
From: The Great Chariot
(1) The thoughts, perceptions, and conceptions that arise in the mind and can contribute to the experience of samsara.[9] (2) An object of focus during meditation, which can pertain to either sentient beings or dharmata.[10]
From: Bodhinyana
(1) Desires and thoughts that occur in the mind, often associated with greed for valuable possessions or restlessly seeking after things.[11] (2) The thoughts, sensations, or experiences that the mind receives and processes as mental activities.[12]
Hindu concept of 'Mental object'
In Hinduism, a Mental object encompasses conceptual meanings and thoughts existing internally, influencing perception and mental activities, contrasting with external physical objects. It includes ideas shaping one's perception of the external world and understanding through the mind.
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) Concepts or thoughts that exist within the mind, as opposed to physical objects in the outer world.[13] (2) Concepts and ideas that exist within the mind and contribute to how a person perceives the external world.[14]
From: Charaka Samhita (English translation)
(1) The items of thought that influence the functioning of the mind.[15] (2) An object of thought or focus within the mind which influences mental activity.[16]
From: Vakyapadiya of Bhartrihari
(1) The conceptualization of a meaning that exists in the mind rather than as an external, physical object.[17] (2) The powers relating to the mental representations or ideas that are not clearly determined and are primarily understood in the context of sentence-meaning.[18]
From: Kena upanishad (Madhva commentary)
(1) Refers to anything that can be thought about or perceived through the mind.[19]
The concept of Mental object in scientific sources
Mental object is an entity that interacts with mana, playing a crucial role in the functioning and activity of mental processes, as highlighted by regional sources. It underscores the interplay between mental concepts and cognitive functions.
From: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
(1) An entity that interacts with mana, essential for the operation and activity of mental processes.[20]