Significance of Noble Being
The term Noble Being is used across various spiritual traditions with nuanced meanings. In Buddhism, it denotes spiritual practitioners who have reached significant realizations and demonstrate selflessness in serving others. In Mahayana Buddhism, it emphasizes moral elevation and commitment to spiritual goals, especially regarding bodhisattvas. In other traditions like Vedanta and Purana, it refers to powerful yet morally upright entities, often highlighting qualities of integrity and dedication toward achieving salvation or enlightenment.
Synonyms: Virtuous life, Nobleman, Lord
In Dutch: Edele Wezen; In Finnish: Jalo Olento; In Spanish: Ser noble
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Noble Being'
In Buddhism, Noble Being indicates an individual who has reached significant spiritual realization, especially on the bodhisattva path, exemplifying selflessness, ethical principles, and dedication to the well-being of others, often recognized for their spiritual accomplishments.
From: Bodhisattvacharyavatara
(1) A noble being is someone who has achieved the exalted state associated with the first bodhisattva level or higher, allowing authorization to write treatises and commentaries on Buddhist teachings.[1] (2) Refers to an individual who has realized absolute bodhicitta, recognized as a unique and virtuous being.[2] (3) Individuals who embody the highest spiritual qualities, typically referring to advanced practitioners on the bodhisattva path.[3] (4) Individuals revered for their spiritual accomplishments, particularly bodhisattvas and those engaged in dharma practice.[4]
From: Lotus Sutra
(1) Noble beings are those who are morally elevated and committed to spiritual goals, often referring to the bodhisattvas engaged in their practice.[5]
From: Mahavastu (great story)
(1) A term used to describe those of high virtue and caliber, often applied to Buddhas and their birth-folk.[6]
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) Refers to a virtuous individual, particularly one with qualities associated with enlightenment, such as wisdom and integrity.[7] (2) Individuals recognized for their virtue and ethical principles, representing the ideals espoused by the Buddha.[8]
From: The Great Chariot
(1) Individuals dedicated to the benefit of others and characterized by their selflessness and effort in aiding sentient beings.[9] (2) A classification of spiritual practitioners who have attained significant stages of realization within the Buddhist path.[10]
Hindu concept of 'Noble Being'
In Hinduism, Noble Being embodies moral integrity and spiritual dedication, signifies powerful entities like Wind and Sun under Brahman's influence, and often refers to the elevated figure of Shiva, representing strength and virtue.
From: Shiva Purana
(1) The high-status entities created by Rudra, endowed with great strength and characteristics.[11] (2) An elevated or virtuous entity, usually referring to Shiva in this text.[12]
From: Skanda Purana
(1) Beings distinguished by their moral integrity and spiritual dedication, capable of attaining salvation.[13]
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) Refers to the holy sages or siddhas whose presence signifies the divine support and approval of the teachings delivered.[14]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad
(1) Refers to powerful entities like Wind, Sun, and others who, despite their might and abilities, operate under the influence of Brahman's authority.[15]