Significance of Natural desire
Natural desire is a multifaceted concept that encompasses various intrinsic motivations across different philosophical and cultural perspectives. In Vaishnavism, it indicates a motivation for combat, while in the Purana, it highlights King Janaka's disinterest in worldly desires. The Natyashastra and Vedanta emphasize natural inclinations towards life and actions linked to outcomes, respectively. Theravada points to innate cravings to be overcome, and historical contexts articulate the underlying subconscious impulses governing behavior. In science, natural desire relates to essential physiological urges necessary for health.
Synonyms: Inherent craving, Instinct, Urge, Inclination, Longing, Craving, Propensity
In Dutch: Natuurlijk verlangen; In Finnish: Luonnollinen halu; In Spanish: Deseo natural; In German: Natürliches Verlangen; In Portugese: Desejo natural; In Italian: Desiderio naturale; In Polish: Naturalne pragnienie
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Natural desire'
Natural desire in Buddhism signifies innate cravings and inclinations stemming from the human condition. These feelings are perceived as obstacles to spiritual growth and enlightenment, emphasizing the need to transcend them for inner peace.
From: Dhammapada (translated from the Pali)
(1) This describes the innate cravings and inclinations that arise from the human condition, which are to be overcome.[1]
Hindu concept of 'Natural desire'
Natural desire in Hinduism encompasses intrinsic human needs and motivations, highlighting diverse aspects like King Janaka's detachment from worldly pleasures, the drive for exclusive relationships, combat instincts, and the fundamental inclination towards life and attachments.
From: International Research Journal of Ayurveda and Yoga
(1) Suppressing these prevents Vata from moving freely, which can lead to health issues.[2] (2) Based on Habits, excessive straining, excessive sexual indulgence, or the repression of these can contribute to the development of Arshas.[3]
From: Bhagavad-gita-rahasya (or Karma-yoga Shastra)
(1) The impulse to continue living is considered this, rather than a logical conclusion drawn from life's experiences.[4]
From: Anugita (English translation)
(1) The intrinsic wants and needs of a person, which in the context signify King Janaka's lack of desire for worldly elements.[5]
From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)
(1) The innate inclination in most men to have exclusive possession of their wives, which may explain the rarity of polyandry.[6]
From: Brahma Sutras (Ramanuja)
(1) The intrinsic motivation that propels actions, whether in everyday life or in the context of sacrifices, often aimed at desired outcomes.[7]
From: Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu
(1) The inherent motivation to engage in combat, as highlighted by the text.[8]
From: Padarthadharmasamgraha and Nyayakandali
(1) Natural desire is a form of desire that does not necessitate the presence of a body for its existence.[9]
The concept of Natural desire in local and regional sources
Natural desire encompasses subconscious thoughts that arise from stored energy, influencing our actions and potentially leading to a form of slavery under unchecked impulses. It also reflects suppressed feelings, as seen in Lawrence's emotional struggles.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) Sex is described as a natural desire, comparable to the need for food and drink, according to Bertrand Russell's perspective on human urges.[10] (2) Lawrence's genuine feelings that he suppresses due to his emotional turmoil and external pressures.[11]
From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda
(1) They are the thoughts that we take from the stored-up energy in the subconscious mind, which we take for talents, and we obey them blindly and slavery is the result, and we call ourselves free.[12]
The concept of Natural desire in scientific sources
Natural desire, as described by regional sources, encompasses innate bodily urges vital for health. These instincts, like the need for sleep, ensure internal balance. Ayurveda emphasizes the importance of not suppressing these natural desires.
Classical concept of 'Natural desire'
From: The Nicomachean Ethics of Aristotle
(1) Following natural desires, such as those common to all men, makes people more easily pardoned, with anger and bad temper being more natural than excessive appetites, as discussed in the text.[13]