Significance of Peace of mind
Peace of mind, according to various spiritual perspectives, is characterized by a state of mental tranquility that arises from understanding, non-attachment, and mindfulness. It involves liberation from desires and emotional disturbances, leading to clarity and a serene disposition. Practices such as meditation and contemplation are emphasized across traditions, including Buddhism, Vaishnavism, and Yoga, to cultivate this state. Ultimately, peace of mind is depicted as an essential inner calm crucial for spiritual growth and well-being, transcending material possessions and worldly concerns.
Synonyms: Calmness, Tranquility, Serenity, Contentment, Assurance, Comfort, Mental clarity, Reassurance, Equanimity
In Dutch: Rust in je hoofd; In Finnish: Mielenrauha; In Spanish: Tranquilidad de espíritu
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Peace of mind'
In Buddhism, Peace of mind encompasses a tranquil state of mental calm achievable through meditation, non-attachment, and virtuous living, ultimately leading to inner contentment and relief from suffering as individuals overcome desires and emotional disturbances.
From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) The calm state of being desired by the Master in his teachings, contrasting the consequences of sinful thoughts.[1] (2) A state of mental tranquility that is threatened by the act of revealing secrets to unreliable parties.[2] (3) A state of mental tranquility that the courtier achieved despite his wrongful imprisonment, allowing him to understand the conditions of existence.[3] (4) A state that Ajatasattu sought but lost after killing his father; regained later through his association with the Tathagata.[4] (5) The state of mental calmness that the layman believed would be disrupted by bringing a woman into their home.[5]
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) A state of mental tranquility that is considered valuable in achieving higher happiness.[6] (2) A state of mental calmness and composure achieved through virtuous living and meditation.[7] (3) A state of mental tranquility sought after by individuals dealing with grief or emotional distress, particularly emphasized in the minister's conversation with Buddha.[8] (4) A state of mental and emotional calmness, often disrupted by external pressures or discontent.[9] (5) Described as the greatest form of wealth, underscoring the idea that internal contentment outweighs material riches.[10]
From: Cetasikas
(1) Peace of mind refers to a state achieved through generosity and consideration for others, contrasting with the restlessness associated with attachment.[11] (2) Peace of mind is achieved through moments of non-attachment when one renounces selfish pleasure in favor of greater benefit for others.[12]
From: Dhammapada (translated from the Pali)
(1) Peace of mind is the result of not envying others and being content with one's situation.[13] (2) A state of mental calmness and stability that is essential for perfect knowledge.[14]
From: Maha Buddhavamsa—The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) The state of mental calmness that the younger brother’s wife seeks, which she believes can be achieved only through the death of Tissa.[15]
From: Introducing Buddhist Abhidhamma
(1) A state of mental tranquility achieved through concentration that fosters serenity and calmness.[16]
From: A Discourse on Paticcasamuppada
(1) Peace of mind refers to a state of mental tranquility, which Ajatasattu sought through his newfound dedication to the Buddha after his misdeeds.[17]
From: Abhidhamma in Daily Life (by Ashin Janakabhivamsa)
(1) A mental state achieved through the practice of Síla, leading to inner calm and lack of anxiety.[18]
From: Milindapanha (questions of King Milinda)
(1) A state of mental calmness and tranquility achieved through meditation.[19]
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) A tranquil mental state that can be achieved by letting go of regrets and past mistakes.[20] (2) A state of mental tranquility and lack of disturbance, considered immensely valuable in the context of the threefold world.[21]
From: Buddhacarita
(1) A state of mental tranquility that results from controlling negative emotions like desire and anger.[22]
From: Lotus Sutra
(1) Peace of mind represents the tranquility and relief from suffering that sentient beings attain through hearing and practicing the Tathagata's teachings.[23]
From: Vimalakirti Nirdesa Sutra
(1) A state of mental tranquility that arises from the understanding and non-attachment to phenomena.[24]
From: Bodhinyana
(1) Peace of mind is achieved when one does things completely with clarity and awareness, free from burdens and discontent.[25] (2) Peace of mind is a state of mental tranquility that can be cultivated through practices like meditation and contemplation.[26] (3) A state of mental calmness and lack of confusion that arises through Dhamma practice and mindfulness.[27] (4) A state of mental tranquility that arises when one is free from desires and attachment, allowing for a stable and serene disposition.[28]
From: The Great Chariot
(1) A state of mental tranquility that arises from understanding the nature of mind beyond speech and thought.[29]
From: Tattvasangraha [with commentary]
(1) A state of tranquility that individuals strive for, especially when contemplating the concept of ‘No-soul’.[30] (2) A state of mental and emotional calmness, which is suggested to be unattainable for those who are ignorant of dharma.[31]
Hindu concept of 'Peace of mind'
In Hinduism, Peace of mind encompasses mental tranquility and clarity sought by various characters like Janamejaya and Arjuna, achieved through spiritual practices, understanding one's duty, and the dispelling of egoism and worldly attachments.
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) A state of mental tranquility that is disrupted by the presence of egoism.[32] (2) A state of mental tranquility that cannot be achieved without recognizing the illusory nature of the world.[33] (3) A state of mental calmness and tranquility, achieved by aligning one's thoughts and actions with inner desires.[34] (4) A deep sense of calm and absence of mental disturbance that comes from spiritual understanding.[35] (5) A state of mental calmness achieved through understanding and liberation from egoism.[36]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) A state of mental and emotional stability and calmness, which is threatened by the presence of the Rakshasa and the fear he instills in the community.[37] (2) A state of mental and emotional calmness that Duryodhana struggles to achieve due to jealousy.[38] (3) A mental state of calmness and contentment that arises when desires and attachments are relinquished.[39] (4) A state of mental calmness and absence of turmoil, often sought by characters such as Dhritarashtra and Kunti amidst their grief.[40] (5) The state of emotional calm that Arjuna sought but struggled to achieve due to memories of his family and the injustices faced.[41]
From: Skanda Purana
(1) A state of tranquility provided to devotees through their devotion to Vishnu.[42] (2) A state of mental tranquility that was lost due to the pressures and demands from kinsmen regarding wealth.[43] (3) Represents the internal state of tranquility that is disrupted by Kamadeva's pursuit, underscoring the emotional stakes in the narrative.[44]
From: Shiva Purana
(1) The state attained by the gods after their victory, allowing them to rule without fear.[45] (2) A state of mental tranquility achieved through spiritual practices and the remembrance of divine beings.[46]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) A mental state of tranquility that Bindhya wishes to attain, which he believes can only be achieved by overthrowing Sumeru.[47] (2) What Janamejaya seeks after feeling sorrowful about his father's unnatural death and failure to conduct a praiseworthy burial.[48]
From: Bhagavata Purana
(1) The process of controlling passions and treasuring the story of Rama leads to peace of mind and liberation from the cycle of birth.[49]
From: Bhagavad-gita-mahatmya
(1) A state of tranquility and absence of mental disturbances that Devashyama seeks to attain.[50]
From: Padma Purana
(1) A state of mental and emotional calmness, free from worry and anxiety.[51]
From: Brahmanda Purana
(1) A state of mental and emotional calmness, which Sagara feels is nurtured by the sage's concern.[52]
From: Gautami Mahatmya
(1) A state achieved by the excellent sages through the power of Maya during their sacrifices.[53]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki
(1) Hanuman assures Tara that witnessing her son Angada as king will restore her tranquility and alleviate her sorrow.[54]
From: Vishnu Purana
(1) A state of mental and emotional calmness that is often achieved through meditation and spiritual practice.[55]
From: Vishnu Purana (Taylor)
(1) The mental state lost by King Bharata due to worry over the fawn.[56]
From: Chandogya Upanishad (english Translation)
(1) A tranquil state of mental well-being that is not achieved through material possessions or status.[57] (2) A state of mental and emotional calmness, which can be elusive despite material success.[58]
From: Ashtavakra Gita
(1) A state of tranquility that can be achieved by recognizing the insubstantiality of worldly attachments.[59]
From: Brahma Sutras (Ramanuja)
(1) A mental state achieved through the understanding and meditation on the unity of Brahman within diversity.[60]
From: Katha Upanishad with Shankara’s Commentary
(1) A state of mental and emotional tranquility that Auddalaki will experience during the nights.[61]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) A state of mental tranquility and steadiness, which can be difficult to achieve without proper practice of devotional service.[62] (2) A state of mental and emotional calmness, which the speaker feels is contingent upon seeing a specific person.[63]
From: Prem Sagar (English translation)
(1) A state of emotional calm and tranquility that Kamsa ultimately cannot achieve, leading to unrest.[64]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) A state of mental calmness and tranquility achieved after resolving feelings of unease associated with past actions.[65]
From: Bhishma Charitra
(1) The state of tranquility that King Shantanu sought but could not achieve, leading him back to the palace.[66]
From: Shat-cakra-nirupana (the six bodily centres)
(1) A state of mental tranquility that comes from focusing on the Lotus and gaining complete knowledge.[67]
From: Manasara (English translation)
(1) A state of mental and emotional calmness, crucial for a leader to function effectively and make sound decisions.[68]
The concept of Peace of mind in local and regional sources
Peace of mind encompasses a state of emotional serenity and mental tranquility, characterized by calmness, relief from stress, and a lack of anxiety. It is sought after for emotional fulfillment, happiness, and clarity in thought.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) The mental tranquility achieved from engaging in philosophical thought and understanding.[69] (2) A state of tranquility that the Holy Mother encouraged people to achieve through acceptance and love.[70] (3) A state of mental and emotional calmness; Menon believes he requires peace of mind to effectively write his story.[71] (4) What Ambujavalli seeks as she faces worries about Pattu and the family’s future.[72] (5) The state of tranquility that can be achieved by following natural laws instead of societal norms and material distractions.[73]
From: Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints
(1) A state of tranquility that the wife observes in her husband, contrasting with her own emotional turmoil.[74] (2) A state of mental tranquility, emphasizing inner calm amidst external chaos and judgment.[75] (3) The serene feeling experienced by the Brahman's wife after hearing about the dream, indicating emotional relief and contentment.[76]
From: Self-Knowledge in Krishnamurti’s Philosophy
(1) A state of mental and emotional calmness, with no anxiety or stress.[77]
The concept of Peace of mind in scientific sources
Peace of mind is described as a mental state characterized by calmness and clarity, which can be achieved through the understanding and practice of Ayurveda, emphasizing holistic well-being and mental tranquility.
From: AYU (Journal of Research in Ayurveda)
(1) A mental state of calmness and clarity achieved through understanding and practicing Ayurveda.[78]