Significance of Mortal
The term "Mortal" encompasses various interpretations across different philosophical perspectives within Hinduism, Jainism, Vaishnavism, and more. Generally, it refers to the transient nature of human beings, highlighting their impermanence and the inevitability of death. While it contrasts human perceptions of time with divine understanding, it also emphasizes moral standings and the duality of existence. Ultimately, "Mortal" signifies beings that experience birth, decay, and death, differentiating them from eternal divine realms.
Synonyms: Human, Living, Ephemeral, Transient, Perishable, Finite
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Mortal'
In Buddhism, "Mortal" denotes human beings affected by life's limitations and doubts. It highlights that external practices alone cannot purify them and underscores their inherent nature in relation to death.
From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) A term used to describe the nature of human beings in relation to death.[1]
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) Refers to human beings who are subject to the limitations and doubts of life; the text emphasizes that mere external practices do not purify mortals.[2]
Hindu concept of 'Mortal'
In Hinduism, "Mortal" signifies the transient essence of beings, highlighting the duality of human nature versus divine, the inevitability of birth and death, and the moral implications of life choices within a hierarchical context.
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) The people affected by the Bindhya mountain obstructing the Sun, some of whom suffered severe consequences.[3] (2) The state of beings, including the Devas, who are subjected to birth, decay, and death despite their divine status.[4]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki
(1) Referring to Rama’s human nature, which contrasts with the supernatural abilities of Ravana.[5] (2) A reference to Rama, distinguishing him as a human being in contrast to divine or supernatural beings.[6]
From: Skanda Purana
(1) Refers to being of a temporary nature, in context to humanity's transient existence contrasted with eternal divine realms.[7]
From: Chandogya Upanishad (Shankara Bhashya)
(1) The condition of being subject to death and impermanence, associated with those who hold onto dualistic ideas.[8]
From: Katha Upanishad with Shankara’s Commentary
(1) A human being subject to death, who must navigate choices between the good and pleasant throughout life.[9]
From: Brihadaranyaka Upanishad
(1) Referring to everything else besides the Internal Ruler, implying that all beings experience birth and death.[10]
From: Satapatha-brahmana
(1) Refers to human beings in the context of the Earth’s warning about the consequences of the sacrifice performed by Vishvakarman Bhauvana.[11] (2) Refers to the transient nature of beings, which is also encompassed within Prajapati's essence.[12]
From: Shaiva Upanishads (A Critical Study)
(1) Human beings who experience the duality of being accompanied by divinity while also feeling its absence.[13]
From: Prem Sagar (English translation)
(1) Refers to human beings, whose perception of time is being contrasted with Brahma's divine understanding.[14]
From: Malatimadhava (study)
(1) Refers to human beings, particularly in the context of their moral standing within the caste hierarchy.[15]
Jain concept of 'Mortal'
In Jainism, "mortal" underscores the transient nature of human beings, highlighting the inevitability of death and the impermanence of earthly life, emphasizing the importance of spiritual liberation beyond physical existence.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) Referring to human beings, particularly emphasizing their transient nature and the finality of death associated with life on Earth.[16]