Significance of Moksha (liberation)
Moksha, or liberation, is a central goal in various Indian spiritual traditions, representing the ultimate freedom from the cycle of birth and death (samsara). It signifies emancipation achieved through devotion, spiritual practice, and realization of the ultimate truth. Various philosophical approaches, including Vaishnavism, Shaivism, and Vedanta, articulate Moksha as a state of eternal freedom and enlightenment, where an individual overcomes material desires and illusions. The attainment of Moksha is considered the highest aspiration of human existence in these traditions.
Synonyms: Salvation, Emancipation, Release, Enlightenment, Liberation, Freedom, Deliverance, Nirvana
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Moksha (liberation)'
Moksha, in Hinduism, signifies liberation from the cycle of birth and death (Samsara), representing the ultimate spiritual goal and freedom achieved through the realization of the eternal Self and overcoming material desires.
From: The Bhagavata Purana
(1) A state of immortality and freedom from fear, associated with the ultimate nature of the Supreme Man.[1] (2) The ultimate goal of yoga practice is liberation from the cycle of birth and death.[2] (3) The ultimate goal of human existence, representing freedom from the cycle of birth and rebirth.[3] (4) The state of ultimate freedom from the cycles of birth and death, characterized by realization of the eternal Self.[4] (5) The ultimate goal of life in the spiritual journey, characterized by liberation from the cycles of rebirth.[5]
From: The Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) The ultimate spiritual goal and liberation from the cycle of birth and death, which can be attained through adherence to prescribed rituals and practices.[6] (2) The ultimate goal of life, representing freedom from the cycle of birth and death.[7] (3) The ultimate goal or state of freedom from the cycle of birth and death, which Shuka seeks guidance on attaining.[8]
From: Laghu-yoga-vasistha
(1) The ultimate freedom from the cycle of birth and death, achieved through the extinguishment of desires.[9] (2) The state of freedom achieved by overcoming the bondage imposed by material desires and the illusions of the external world.[10] (3) The state of release from the cycle of birth and death, where the individual realizes unity with Brahman.[11]
From: The Padma Purana
(1) Moksha, or liberation, is the ultimate state of freedom from the cycle of birth and rebirth, attainable through devotion.[12] (2) The ultimate goal of spiritual practice, representing freedom from the cycle of birth and rebirth and the attainment of the highest state of being.[13]
From: The Brahmanda Purana
(1) The state of release or liberation from the cycle of worldly existence, achieved through the understanding of transcendental truth.[14] (2) The ultimate goal of human existence as envisioned in the context of Bharata, representing spiritual freedom and enlightenment.[15]
From: The Skanda Purana
(1) The ultimate goal of spiritual liberation from the cycle of birth and death, attainable through sincere observance.[16]
From: Bhagavatpadabhyudaya by Lakshmana Suri (study)
(1) The concept of freedom from the cycle of birth and death, which can be achieved in this life according to Advaita Vedanta.[17]
From: Mandukya Upanishad (Gaudapa Karika and Shankara Bhashya)
(1) A spiritual freedom that is argued to have no beginning and, thus, is eternal in nature.[18]
From: Prasthanatrayi Swaminarayan Bhashyam (Study)
(1) A term in Indian philosophy defined as the attainment of liberation from maya, the illusion associated with the cycle of death and rebirth.[19]
From: Siddhanta Sangraha of Sri Sailacharya
(1) The ultimate goal of spiritual practice, representing freedom from the cycle of birth and death.[20]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) The ultimate goal sought by spiritual seekers, signifying emancipation from samsara.[21] (2) A state of freedom from the cycle of birth and death, often associated with realizing the ultimate truth and achieving union with the divine.[22]
From: Shaiva Upanishads (A Critical Study)
(1) The ultimate goal of spiritual practice, signifying liberation from the cycle of birth and death, which is conferred upon the wearer of Rudraksha.[23]
From: Gitartha Samgraha (critical Study)
(1) The ultimate goal of freedom and emancipation in Indian philosophy, representing liberation from the cycle of birth and death.[24]