Significance of Nature of things
The Nature of things is a significant philosophical concept explored across various traditions, including Buddhism, Hinduism, Jainism, and others. In Buddhism, it emphasizes the impermanence of life, the unchanging essence underlying phenomena, and the inherent qualities of reality that can be understood through deep insight. Hinduism attributes these characteristics to inherent qualities of phenomena, while Jainism focuses on understanding reality to inform ethical behavior. Overall, the Nature of things encapsulates the fundamental qualities and principles that govern existence and reality, making it crucial for philosophical inquiry.
Synonyms: Essence, Character, Substance, Fundamental quality, Intrinsic nature, Inherent qualities, Properties, Disposition
In Dutch: Aard van de dingen; In Finnish: Asioiden luonne; In Spanish: Naturaleza de las cosas; In German: Natur der Dinge
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 of things'
In Buddhism, the "Nature of things" encompasses the inherent qualities defining entities and their interrelationships, emphasizing fundamental truths about existence, impermanence, and interdependence, ultimately guiding the bodhisattva's understanding and actions.
From: Tattvasangraha [with commentary]
(1) A fundamental principle or characteristic inherent in reality is mentioned. An argument is based upon this, suggesting that a fundamental unit of matter cannot be considered one because there is diversity of orientations.[1] (2) The 'nature of things' refers to the inherent qualities and characteristics of objects or phenomena, and it is argued that the Buddhist argument proceeds based on this concept.[2] (3) The inherent characteristics of objects or phenomena, which are always determined by the precise concurrence of specific factors, rather than randomly.[3] (4) Devadatta's cognitions of color and objects have causes that are efficient and untrammelled, based upon the nature of things.[4] (5) The intrinsic qualities or properties of entities that inform the relationships and concepts associated with them.[5]
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) This is the inherent quality, known as dharmata, that is always present in the world.[6] (2) Refers to the inherent qualities and realities of existence as recognized through the insights of the Omniscient One.[7] (3) A concept suggesting that the exact number of thirty-two marks aligns with the fundamental realities and truths of existence.[8] (4) A philosophical principle requiring that a text must not contradict fundamental truths as understood in Buddhism.[9] (5) The fundamental essence or reality of dharmas, which, in Buddhism, is understood as being empty and devoid of intrinsic characteristics.[10]
From: Mahayana Mahaparinirvana Sutra
(1) Refers to the intrinsic characteristics or properties that define the fundamental aspects of reality.[11] (2) The fundamental properties and characteristics of existence as perceived and understood by the Bodhisattva during meditation and contemplation.[12]
From: Shurangama Sutra (with commentary) (English)
(1) Refers to the inherent characteristics that define physical phenomena, standing in contrast to the seeing-nature.[13]
From: Maha Buddhavamsa—The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) The inherent qualities of impermanence and change that apply to all phenomena, emphasized by the Buddha to illustrate the inevitability of parting.[14] (2) A philosophical consideration by the Buddha explaining the inevitability of separation and impermanence in life.[15]
From: Milindapanha (questions of King Milinda)
(1) This is the subject of statements that leave no room for additions, made by various enlightened beings, and are true and real.[16] (2) An inclusive statement reflecting the fundamental truths about human experiences, suffering, and the recluse's way of living.[17]
From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) The inherent qualities and conditions that define existence, including impermanence and change.[18]
From: Guide to Tipitaka
(1) The true essence and reality of phenomena as explained by the Buddha, which reflects the impermanence and interdependent nature of existence.[19]
From: The Great Chariot
(1) The naturelessness that is this is also the spontaneous presence of great bliss, emphasizing the inherent blissfulness of reality.[20] (2) The essential quality behind all phenomena that remains unchanged despite temporal appearances and experiences.[21]
From: The Fo-Sho-Hing-Tsan-King (A Life of Buddha)
(1) The inherent characteristic of all things being joined and then separated, illustrating the impermanence of life.[22]
Hindu concept of 'Nature of things'
In Hinduism, the "Nature of things" encompasses the intrinsic qualities and characteristics defining entities, their relationships, and the essence of reality, emphasizing a profound understanding that leads to knowledge, liberation, and insight into existence's complexities.
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) The text explains that the mind was employed in the discrimination of the nature of things, which led to discarding thoughts of sensual enjoyments.[23] (2) Ignorance of the nature of things is the source of uneasiness and sickness, according to the text.[24] (3) The inherent characteristics or behaviors of existence, often as understood through a spiritual or philosophical lens.[25] (4) The inherent qualities that define the existence and behavior of all entities in the universe.[26] (5) The inherent essence of existence that can be understood through deep reflection and awareness.[27]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) The inherent reality and truth of existence as understood through wisdom and scriptures.[28]
From: Vakyapadiya of Bhartrihari
(1) The fundamental essence or characteristics of reality, as understood by sages.[29] (2) Refers to the inherent characteristics or properties of entities, influencing how actions are interpreted or diversified.[30] (3) Refers to the inherent qualities or circumstances that guide interpretation and understanding of actions and expressions.[31] (4) The intrinsic characteristics or essence of objects, which cannot be comprehended through unestablished words.[32] (5) The intrinsic qualities or characteristics of objects that underlie their existence and difference from one another.[33]
From: Padarthadharmasamgraha and Nyayakandali
(1) The fundamental characteristic of objects, emphasizing that Colour consistently exists within the substances that embody it.[34] (2) The inherent qualities that define the existence and relationships among both individuals and their Communities.[35] (3) The inherent qualities and characteristics of substances which a science aims to describe and understand.[36] (4) The nature of things refers to the inherent characteristics or qualities that define entities and influence their classification as Generalities or Individualities.[37]
From: Yoga-sutras (with Vyasa and Vachaspati Mishra)
(1) The nature of things in existence consists of being the objects of knowledge, including the five Tanmatras, the elements, and things made of the elements.[38] (2) The inherent characteristics that define the existence and qualities of objects, including their relation to perceived reality.[39]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) The inherent qualities that lead to natural desires such as hunger and thirst, which are seen as unavoidable.[40] (2) The inherent characteristics or tendencies of individuals.[41] (3) An inherent characteristic that dictates that the consequences of an act may extend beyond the intended purpose, affecting the overall outcome.[42]
From: History of Indian Medicine (and Ayurveda)
(1) Refers to individuals endowed with insight into the nature of things, who are valued for their understanding of the world.[43]
From: The Sarva-Darsana-Samgraha
(1) The inherent qualities and behaviors of phenomena, which are attributed by Carvaka as the source of all events rather than divine influence or fate.[44]
From: Tiruvaymoli (Thiruvaimozhi): English translation
(1) The inherent characteristics of creation which ensure that certain outcomes, such as the Lord's commitment to devotees, are intrinsically guaranteed.[45]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad
(1) In the course of his investigation into the nature of things, the text describes how one sees his identity with the Annamaya-atman, the Viraj, and rises above individual beings by seeing them as none other than the Viraj.[46]
Jain concept of 'Nature of things'
In Jainism, the Nature of things involves comprehending the essence of situations, guiding individuals to communicate and act correctly in alignment with spiritual teachings and ethical principles.
From: Acaranga-sutra
(1) Understanding the reality of situations, which informs appropriate speech and behavior according to the teachings.[47]
The concept of Nature of things in scientific sources
Nature of things, according to regional sources, relates to Schelling's philosophy. His dialogue explores the essence of existence, providing delicate teachings on the "nature of things" within his broader philosophical framework.
From: Religions Journal (MDPI)
(1) Schelling's dialogue brings some of the most delicate teachings on the "nature of things" from his entire philosophy, offering insights into the essence of existence, as indicated in the excerpt.[48]
Classical concept of 'Nature of things'
From: The Nicomachean Ethics of Aristotle
(1) The text states if we look deeper into the nature of things, a virtuous friend seems to be naturally desirable for a virtuous man, reinforcing the connection between virtue and friendship.[49] (2) The cause is rooted in the nature of things, suggesting that the observed differences in affection between benefactors and beneficiaries are not merely coincidental but are influenced by fundamental aspects of human psychology and motivation.[50]