Significance of Nature
Synonyms: Nurture, Environment, Natural world, Wilderness, Ecosystem, Flora and fauna, Landscape, Scenery, Wildlife, Countryside
In French: Nature; In Dutch: Natuur; In Finnish: Luonto; In Spanish: Naturaleza; In German: Natur; In Swedish: Natur; In Italian: Natura; In Polish: Natura; In Malay: Alam semula jadi; In Portugese: Natureza
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Nature'
In Buddhism, "Nature" encompasses inherent qualities defining entities, differentiating them, and linked to an Omniscient Person. It also describes the impermanent, interconnected essence of existence, where things are fluid. This understanding is crucial for interpreting arguments about existence and operation.
From: Tattvasangraha [with commentary]
(1) A fundamental essence or inherent characteristic that defines the inherent properties and qualities of a particular entity or concept under consideration.[1] (2) Nature refers to the inherent characteristic or quality of something, particularly as it relates to its ability to be produced by particular causes influenced by auxiliaries.[2] (3) The fundamental qualities of something.[3] (4) It is the fundamental qualities or characteristics of a thing, used to determine whether it is different from another thing.[4] (5) It is the inherent character or essence of something, encompassing its innate qualities, tendencies, and predispositions.[5]
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) Great wisdom has as its the relinquishment and rejection of dharmas.[6] (2) This describes something that is to perish immediately and spontaneously after it has been born, as understood within the context of the text.[7]
From: Mahayana Mahaparinirvana Sutra
(1) Nature is presented as a concept that is open to questioning, implying a need to understand its true essence within the context of the Buddha's teachings.[8] (2) The world believes that this is a creator, speaking of an end and a beginning, and of the “is-not” and “is” of the world.[9]
From: Shurangama Sutra (with commentary) (English)
(1) The nature refers to the fundamental characteristics of existence, suggesting that things are not obstructed or fixed, but fluid and interconnected.[10]
Hindu concept of 'Nature'
In Hinduism, Nature encompasses the cosmos, divine essence, and the physical world, including elements, qualities, and inherent characteristics. It's the source of cause and effect, divided into forces, and distinct from Purusha. Nature is also the essential character of beings, minds, and objects, and the cause of both man and disease.
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) Nature is identified as the force that engages in action, while the Lord is not the cause of the capacity for action, the actions of men, or the connection of actions and their fruit.[11] (2) The inherent character or essence of a person or thing, determining its qualities and behavior.[12] (3) In the womb, amid urine and faeces, one’s sojourn is regulated by this, and the born creature is not a free agent.[13] (4) Gods, men, Gandharvas, Pisacas, Asuras, and Rakshasas, are said to have sprung from this, not from actions or a cause.[14] (5) Nature is a possible reason for the monarch being afflicted, alongside Destiny being all-powerful.[15]
From: Brihaddharma Purana (abridged)
(1) It is an entity that existed along with Spirit in the beginning, later coming into contact with Spirit and dividing itself into three parts to aid creation.[16] (2) According to Suka, Vidya is one of the three kinds of it. Some parts of Vidya were evolved into Dakshayani Sati, Savitri, Lakshmi and Sarasvati.[17] (3) The encompassing force divided into three types: Vidya and two kinds of Avidya.[18]
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) The text mentions variations in "Nature" as apparent manifestations of the Divine Spirit, suggesting that what we perceive as the natural world is a reflection of this underlying essence.[19] (2) One observes with extensive view the course of nature, from the highest and greatest objects to the mean and minute.[20] (3) Therefore this is both as empty as the hollow vacuity of air, as also as dense as the density of a rock; so it is the solidity of Brahma that represents the solid cosmos, as his tenuity displays the inane atmosphere.[21]
From: Markandeya Purana
(1) It is where all this universe becomes dissolved in; it subsists with the Soul with sameness of character when all modification is suspended.[22] (2) It is that from whose three qualities 'mukti' results in separation. Separating qualities from it is possible when one sees supreme Brahma.[23]
From: Anugita (English translation)
(1) The inherent qualities and characteristics that define the physical world and existence.[24]
From: Bhagavadgita
(1) The text states that nature only works, implying that actions and their consequences are governed by the laws of nature rather than divine intervention.[25]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Griffith)
(1) Shakes convulsed with dread and darkness is spread over the land, reflecting a universal sense of disturbance and reaction to the unfolding events.[26]
From: Brahma Sutras (Shankaracharya)
(1) The discussion is centered around separating the akshara from entities whose nature is different from Brahman, highlighting inherent distinctions.[27] (2) The fundamental qualities or characteristics of something, particularly in the context of distinguishing between an intelligent being and the pradhana.[28] (3) This is the essential character of something, and the text discusses the nature of words.[29]
From: Brahma Sutras (Ramanuja)
(1) It is something like that of the highest Person, which is attained through Release.[30] (2) This phrase refers to the cause of activity of causes and effects, as Nature is declared to be the cause of the activity of causes and effects.[31]
From: Mandukya Upanishad
(1) The inherent qualities or characteristics that define the arguments presented by the disputants.[32]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad Bhashya Vartika
(1) The inherent and fundamental qualities, characterizing it as real and distinct from the realm of illusion.[33]
From: Brahma Sutras (Shankara Bhashya)
(1) Some speak of this as the cause of everything, but this is mentioned as a Purvapaksha and is refuted later.[34]
From: Chandogya Upanishad (english Translation)
(1) The phenomena of the physical world collectively, including plants, animals, the landscape, and other features and products of the earth.[35]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) The nature of Vrindavana is a subject of inquiry by Shri Nanda, who wants to know the qualities and attributes of the forest.[36] (2) This word describes a characteristic of the mind, and it is mutual.[37] (3) The inherent qualities or characteristics of an entity, in this context referring to divine nature.[38] (4) Describes the inherent qualities or characteristics associated with the elephants mentioned.[39]
From: Sri Krishna-Chaitanya
(1) This refers to the physical world, and the text discusses the worship of nature and its relationship to the Absolute.[40]
From: Bhajana-Rahasya
(1) Natures, which can include imperfections like harshness or lethargy, should not cause one to view a devotee as material.[41]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) The inherent character or fundamental qualities of something, shaping its behavior and responses in various situations and influencing its interactions with the world.[42]
From: Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu
(1) It pertains to the inherent qualities or characteristics of something, influencing its behavior or properties.[43]
From: International Research Journal of Ayurveda and Yoga
(1) 107 Mar mas (vital parts) in the human body and Pradhana Marma is Sirah, Sadyopranahara in nature.[44] (2) The source for daily needs of man like food articles and shelter, living in harmony with it played an important role in understanding its phenomenology.[45]
From: Charaka Samhita (English translation)
(1) This is the cause of both man and diseases, and it is described using qualities such as roughness, fluidity, mobility, and heat, associated with different elements.[46]
From: Journal of Ayurveda and Integrated Medical Sciences
(1) This is what people are moving away from.[47]
From: History of Indian Medicine (and Ayurveda)
(1) There is another person by the name of Bharadvaja, who is a great scholar taking part in the learned discussions of the sages and propounding the theory of this or the innate quality of things as the cause of man as well as of his diseases.[48]
From: Yoga-sutras (with Bhoja’s Rajamartanda)
(1) To consist of (tadatmanah) is to be of that nature, or to be modified to that form: this is the meaning.[49] (2) It is referred to as the Pradhana of the Sankhya categories, the highest of the twenty-five, next only to the soul. It is acquired in every way.[50] (3) It desists, having manifested herself to soul and does by manifold means accomplish the wish of the ungrateful soul.[51] (4) Nature, in this context, signifies the effects of the elements, such as the properties of smell, viscidity, heat, impulsion, and impenetrability, providing insight into their inherent characteristics.[52]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) This describes the characteristics and behaviors of the people residing in a specific country, which can be considered as an advantage or disadvantage.[54]
From: Shakti and Shakta
(1) It knows no sharp boundaries or yawning gulfs, and there is no break in continuity, as subtle connecting links exist between things.[55]
From: Vakyapadiya of Bhartrihari
(1) One view posits that a thing's "nature" inherently dictates whether it possesses a certain power, suggesting that power is an intrinsic quality determined by its fundamental characteristics.[56]
Jain concept of 'Nature'
In Jainism, "Nature" encompasses the interconnectedness of all elements within the universe. It's a concept linked to karma, suffering, and the cycle of rebirth. Nature is where beings experience the consequences of their actions within the framework of the cosmos.
From: Bhagavati-sutra (Viyaha-pannatti)
(1) This is one of the concepts included in the text, and it is referenced in the context of Rajagriha, Movement (of karma), Suffering, Karma deluding faith, Nature, Worlds, Distance, Infernal beings, Fools, Weight, Movement again.[57]
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) Nature, referred to as Prakriti, is an important concept mentioned, suggesting its relevance to the ideas presented and how they might relate to the natural world.[58]
From: Tattvartha Sutra (with commentary)
(1) Nature, also known as bhava, is differentiated from substance, because oneness (single continuum) is specified to be with regard to substance and not with regard to nature.[59]
The concept of Nature in local and regional sources
Nature is multifaceted, encompassing the external world, its laws, and processes. It's viewed as both a source of connection and a realm of evolution. Philosophically, it's linked to God, consciousness, and the human mind, with some perspectives seeing it as a creation of man.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) The text describes the presence of both turbulent and soothing elements coexisting within someone's nature, encompassing extremes like whirlwinds and gentle breezes.[60] (2) Nature is viewed as a dome of many-colored glass and a pageantry of splendour, indicating a perception of the natural world as beautiful and awe-inspiring.[61] (3) Nature is described as never-failing and forgiving the thrice unnatural wretchedness of man, with dark innumerable bees serving as purple reminders of joy.[62] (4) Nature, according to the text, is a subject that Larkin writes about, describing beautiful landscapes and incorporating elements of the natural world into his poetry.[63] (5) Nature is described as the author's love, including forests with trees, flowers, and colorful birds, where he spent most of his time wandering or sitting in temples.[64]
From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda
(1) Nature is something from which the Yogi seeks separation, as it is believed to bring the soul to the realization that it is eternally separate from it.[65] (2) Nature encompasses two apparent forces, one that constantly differentiates and another that constantly unifies, with the interplay of these forces evident in various departments.[66] (3) Nature's gates can be opened by the power of concentration, releasing floods of light and revealing the secrets and treasures hidden within the natural world.[67] (4) According to the text, nature is considered to be only that part of the universe which is manifested on the physical plane, excluding the mind.[68] (5) Nature, according to the text, encompasses everything from the lowest form up to intelligence, and it is separate from the soul, eternally distinct, and its manifestations are caused by itself to free the Purusha.[69]
From: Buddhist records of the Western world (Xuanzang)
(1) The nature of the people is hard and fierce; they greatly regard justice and bravery, reflecting their cultural values and societal norms.[70]
The concept of Nature in scientific sources
Nature is a prestigious, international, peer-reviewed scientific journal. It publishes significant research across all scientific disciplines, including pharmacology, biology, and medicine. Research published in Nature covers topics like antipyretics, protein structures, tissue regeneration, and neural cell models.
From: Sustainability Journal (MDPI)
(1) Previous experiences of nature and narratives about native habitats mediate perceptions of green roofs, meaning that exposure to natural environments shapes how people see green roofs.[71] (2) This term encompasses the environment and ecosystems, particularly in the context of recognizing value and integrating it into economic and financial models.[72] (3) Nature refers to natural landscapes and places and green areas of uncultivated land, which may be shaped by human activities, but the elements of earth, air, water, growing things and wildlife exist independently of human intervention.[73] (4) Nature is mentioned as a variable, and its correlation coefficients with other variables, such as Unebit, are analyzed to understand its impact within the models.[74] (5) Nature, in this context, refers to the intrinsic characteristics or qualities of an indicator, which can be either positive (+) indicating a beneficial effect or negative (-) signifying an adverse impact.[75]
From: International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health (MDPI)
(1) Interaction with nature indoors and outdoors has a significant impact on mental well-being, affecting psychological and physiological health.[76] (2) Nature is referenced as something that can improve well-being and proenvironmental behavior among university students, and active engagement with nature through outdoor adventure tourism can also promote sustainability and well-being.[77] (3) It refers to the physical world and its ecosystems, encompassing plants, animals, landscapes, and natural resources, often valued for its intrinsic beauty and ecological importance.[78] (4) Nature interaction can be affected by cultural, discriminatory, and economic barriers experienced by members of diverse communities, influencing their experiences and the development of social cohesion.[79] (5) Exposure to it has profound benefits for physical and mental well-being, improves cognitive function, blood pressure, physical activity, sleep, activity in the prefrontal cortex and mental health.[80]
From: Religions Journal (MDPI)
(1) It is something to befriend in a time of changing climate.[81] (2) It encompasses the phenomena of the physical world, including living organisms, ecosystems, and natural processes, studied by science and considered in philosophical and theological contexts.[82] (3) Nature, or φύσις, is associated with Greek Philosophy, indicating its role in philosophical discussions within the specified texts and analyses.[83] (4) According to the text, nature plays a vital role in the spiritual experiences, offering solace, tranquility, and a sense of reconnection that is fundamental to the retreats and walks in places like Sintra.[84] (5) A mechanistic philosophy of nature is not necessarily equated with excluding God, as many advocates had theological reasons.[85]
From: Religious Inquiries (Journal)
(1) Nature is one of the three things in which the principles of matters, such as supplications and rewards of the righteous, terminate.[86] (2) It is not mere inanimate matter, rather it is full of perfections and divine and ethical values and has essential value, according to this principle.[87] (3) The sphinx speaks about nature as if she has seen everything that has happened, highlighting her connection to the natural world and its history.[88]
From: International Journal of Pharmacology
(1) A leading international weekly journal of science, publishing peer-reviewed research across all fields of science and technology.[89] (2) This journal published research on the structures of the HER2-HER3-NRG1β complex, revealing insights into dynamic dimer interfaces.[90] (3) This is a prestigious international weekly journal of science, publishing significant research across all scientific disciplines.[91] (4) Nature is a prestigious scientific journal that publishes significant research findings across various scientific disciplines.[92] (5) This is an immense source of pharmacologically active molecules that has been utilized for the treatment of various incurable diseases.[93]
From: The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences
(1) It is a journal in which research on the orbitofrontal cortex was published in 1999, specifically volume 398, issue 6729, pages 704-708.[94] (2) This journal published research on a role for Pyk2 and Src in linking G-protein-coupled receptors with MAP kinase activation.[95] (3) This is a journal that has published articles related to the evaluation of scientists and their work, as indicated by a specific reference.[96]
From: Asian Journal of Pharmaceutics
(1) It is the name of a journal where research about An obesity-associated gut microbiome with increased capacity for energy harvest was published.[97]
From: International Journal of Pharmacology
(1) This scientific journal published research explaining the antipyretic activity of paracetamol through prostaglandin synthetase inhibition.[98] (2) A scientific journal that published the structure of the thermally stable Zika virus.[99] (3) A scientific journal that published information about a three-dimensional human neural cell culture model of Alzheimer’s disease.[100] (4) This scientific journal published a 2000 study demonstrating that vagus nerve stimulation can reduce the systemic inflammatory response to endotoxin.[101] (5) Nature is a scientific journal that published research indicating plant chitinases are potent inhibitors of fungal growth.[102]
Classical concept of 'Nature'
From: The Nicomachean Ethics of Aristotle
(1) Nature's part in making us good does not depend on us, but rather is a result of some divine causes present in those who are truly fortunate, and therefore is not controlled.[103] (2) It is harder to change than habit, influencing behavior deeply, and is often compared to long-standing habits that become ingrained aspects of an individual's character.[104] (3) Nature can be the cause of certain states, but those in whom nature is the cause of such a state are not called incontinent, like women in copulation.[105] (4) Something that exists by nature is unchangeable and possesses the same force everywhere, as opposed to something that is established by convention or human enactment.[106] (5) Nature is a cause that affects things in the world, but things that happen because of nature are not subject to deliberation because they are not in our power.[107]
From: Aesop's Fables (English translation)
(1) The nature of the Sea is calm and firm, but the winds cause it to create waves and lash into fury, disrupting its natural state.[108] (2) Inherent qualities or instincts that prevail over learned behaviors or external changes, demonstrated through the actions of the transformed being.[109] (3) The inherent characteristics and limitations of a creature, such as the inability to live on land despite having sovereignty over the sea.[110]
From: Legends Of The Gods
(1) This is described as something that can be hurtful and destructive, exemplified by drought, darkness and the sea.[111]
From: Development of Religion and Thought in Ancient Egypt
(1) It is a concept that reveals the presence of a deity and is appreciated as a disclosure of a deity in the visible world.[112]