Significance of Pure mind

Pure mind is a state of mental clarity and purity identified across various spiritual traditions, including Buddhism, Jainism, and Vedanta. It emphasizes the importance of being free from distractions, biases, and impurities, allowing individuals to effectively receive teachings and attain spiritual goals. This clear mental state is crucial for recognizing deeper realities, engaging in practices like meditation, and facilitating genuine understanding of one’s true nature. Achieving a pure mind is seen as essential for spiritual growth and realization across multiple faiths.

Synonyms: Clear mind, Tranquil mind, Serene mind, Innocent mind, Unblemished mind, Calm mind., Clean mind, Unclouded mind

In Dutch: Zuivere geest; In Finnish: Puhdas mieli; In Spanish: Mente pura; In Portugese: Mente pura; In Italian: Mente pura; In German: Reiner Geist; In Swedish: Rent sinne; In Malay: Fikiran murni; In Malay: Fikiran yang suci; In French: Esprit pur; In Polish: Czysty umysł

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Buddhist concept of 'Pure mind'

Buddhism Books

Pure mind in Buddhism represents a mental state devoid of greed, hatred, and delusion, fostering clarity, understanding of teachings, and enlightenment. It encompasses untainted consciousness, facilitating wisdom and true generosity, crucial for spiritual practice.

Significance in Mahayana (major branch of Buddhism):
Mahayana Books

From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra

(1) A pure mind is when paracittajnana is pure, highlighting the conditional nature of this knowledge based on the observed mind.[1] (2) Hard speech coming from a (aklishtacitta) the aim of which is to teach beings to distinguish the good (kushala) from the bad (akushala) and to remove them from this level of suffering.[2] (3) A gift made with a pure mind is described as being like a beautiful flower, unblemished, and is a characteristic of pure gifts, as the text suggests.[3] (4) A state of mental clarity free from distractions, which is essential for successfully practicing meditation on the Buddhas.[4] (5) Anasravacitta, a state of mind that is free from attachments and delusions, characterized by clarity and insight.[5]

From: Shurangama Sutra (with commentary) (English)

(1) A state of mind that is unclouded and clear, allowing for deep understanding of reality and truth without distractions.[6] (2) A mind that is clear of any distractions or unworthy thoughts, allowing the essence of total wisdom to emerge.[7] (3) The state of the speaker's mind that prevented total loss despite the spell and violation of one precept.[8] (4) A state of mind achieved by Pilindavatsa where awareness of the body and pain is transcended, resulting in spiritual purity.[9] (5) The untainted and original state of consciousness that is free from false thoughts and distractions.[10]

From: Mahayana Mahaparinirvana Sutra

(1) A state of mental clarity and morality free from the stains of defilements, closely associated with shila and wisdom.[11] (2) A state of consciousness free from greed, anger, ignorance, and attachment, associated with enlightenment.[12]

From: Bodhisattvacharyavatara

(1) A state of consciousness that does not see flaws in others, reflecting a higher understanding and clarity of perception.[13]

From: Avatamsaka Sutra (flower adornment sutra)—Preface

(1) A state of mental clarity which allows for increasing Bodhi (enlightenment) day by day.[14]

From: Vimalakirti Nirdesa Sutra

(1) A state of mental clarity and purity conducive to receiving and practicing the Dharma.[15]

From: Mahavastu (great story)

(1) A state of mind untainted by distractions or impurities, inherent in Buddhas that leads to clear perception.[16]

Mahayana is a major branch of Buddhism focusing on the path of a Bodhisattva (spiritual aspirants/ enlightened beings). Extant literature is vast and primarely composed in the Sanskrit language. There are many sutras of which some of the earliest are the various Prajnaparamita sutras.

Significance in Buddhism (general):

From: Bodhinyana

(1) A state of mental clarity free from defilements, essential for recognizing and understanding the teachings of the Buddha.[17] (2) A mental state free from attachment, confusion, and disturbances, allowing for clarity and understanding.[18] (3) A state of mind free from bias and distraction where true understanding arises and can be cultivated through diligent practice.[19]

From: The Great Chariot

(1) The arising of bodhicitta is said to come from this, depending on homage and offerings, after first inquiring whether one’s being has been defiled with obstacles, after which the precepts are said.[20] (2) The state of being mentally clear and aligned with wholesome qualities, open to receiving teachings.[21]

From: Apadana commentary (Atthakatha)

(1) A state of mental clarity and virtue that is emphasized for spiritual practice and receptivity.[22]

From: The Fo-Sho-Hing-Tsan-King (A Life of Buddha)

(1) A state deeply moved, desiring to see the body of the lord, causing the fire to go out and not kindle.[23]

Significance in Theravada (major branch of Buddhism):
Theravada Books

From: Abhidhamma in Daily Life (by Ashin Janakabhivamsa)

(1) A necessary condition for genuine spiritual attainment, suggesting that intrinsic purity is vital for reaching higher states such as Nibbána.[24] (2) A mind that is free from unwholesome influences and dedicated to righteousness.[25]

From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)

(1) The state of having a clear and confident mind, which is crucial for speaking or acting positively.[26]

From: Guide to Tipitaka

(1) A mind that retains the dhamma, illustrated with the analogy of clean cloth in the Vattha Sutta.[27]

Theravada is a major branch of Buddhism having the the Pali canon (tipitaka) as their canonical literature, which includes the vinaya-pitaka (monastic rules), the sutta-pitaka (Buddhist sermons) and the abhidhamma-pitaka (philosophy and psychology).

Significance in Tibetan Buddhism (Vajrayana or tantric Buddhism):
Tibetan Buddhism Books

From: Tattvasangraha [with commentary]

(1) A state of mental clarity achieved by ceasing ignorance and attachments, which leads to liberation according to the text.[28]

Tibetan Buddhism includes schools such as Nyingma, Kadampa, Kagyu and Gelug. Their primary canon of literature is divided in two broad categories: The Kangyur, which consists of Buddha’s words, and the Tengyur, which includes commentaries from various sources. Esotericism and tantra techniques (vajrayana) are collected indepently.

Hindu concept of 'Pure mind'

Hinduism Books

In Hinduism, a Pure mind signifies a state of mental clarity free from distractions and impurities, essential for spiritual growth and understanding. It facilitates deep inquiry into sacred texts and embodies enlightenment, peace, and liberation.

Significance in Purana and Itihasa (epic history):
Purana Books

From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4

(1) Abandon therefore thy desire for, and thy attachment to anything of this kind, which is at best but to the trouble of the soul; and thy freedom from them will keep thy mind pure, although thou mayst continue to discharge thy duties of life, with a willing mind and unenslaved soul.[29] (2) A pure mind is described as being full of immortality, similar to the moon, signifying a state of enlightenment, and freedom from worldly attachments.[30] (3) A state of mental clarity and purity likened to filtered water, free from distractions or impurities.[31] (4) A state of mind that readily accepts instruction and knowledge, likened to a surface that retains oil.[32] (5) A mind free from desires and impurities that reflects the truth accurately.[33]

From: Laghu-yoga-vasistha

(1) Thus did the noble son of Hiranyakashipu meditate through his pure mind and enjoy bliss in the supreme differenceless Nirvikalpa Samadhi of great omniscience, suggesting that the purity of mind is essential for spiritual realization.[34] (2) It is the mind that makes efforts in the virtuous path and can correct and mould the impure mind, like one iron shaping another iron.[35] (3) The pure mind concentrates itself for some time through study and practice, then in such persons developing Jnana, a divine vision will arise, as described in the text.[36] (4) A mind that is free from desires and distractions, enabling clarity and spiritual understanding.[37] (5) A mind that is cleansed of impurities and desires, allowing the seeker to attain peace and wisdom.[38]

From: Mahabharata (English)

(1) Endued with a pure mind and restraining the self by constancy, one renounces objects of sense and casts off affection and aversion, becoming fit for assimilation.[39] (2) Thoughts that are free from corruption, malevolence, or impure intentions.[40] (3) The state of mental and spiritual clarity desired by individuals who make frequent gifts, crucial for receiving the full merits of their actions.[41] (4) A mind free from attachment and desire, seen as the ultimate state of clarity and understanding in spiritual practices.[42]

From: Gautami Mahatmya

(1) Daksha's sacrifice was guarded with purity of mind, indicating the importance of mental clarity and focus in rituals.[43] (2) The state of mental clarity and sincerity that Bali possesses, allowing him to receive blessings from Vishnu.[44]

From: Vishnu Purana

(1) Represent individuals free from selfish thoughts, akin to clear waters adorned with beauty.[45]

From: Anugita (English translation)

(1) A state of mental clarity and integrity that allows for the expansion of merit through good actions.[46]

From: Bhagavad-gita Mahatmya

(1) A quality attributed to the king or his son, suggesting spiritual clarity and moral integrity.[47]

From: Harivamsha Purana

(1) A state of mind that is free from impurities and distractions, allowing for focused understanding and concentration.[48]

From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Griffith)

(1) The text suggests that her purer mind is different from other women, implying that she is more virtuous and less prone to faults.[49]

The Purana refers to Sanskrit literature preserving ancient India’s vast cultural history, including historical legends, religious ceremonies, various arts and sciences. The eighteen mahapuranas total over 400,000 shlokas (metrical couplets) and date to at least several centuries BCE.

Significance in Vedanta (school of philosophy):
Vedanta Books

From: Taittiriya Upanishad Bhashya Vartika

(1) A state of mental clarity and focus, achieved through meditation, which is necessary for valuable inquiry into the Upanishad.[50] (2) A state of mental clarity and purity necessary for a spiritual aspirant to gain Brahman-knowledge.[51] (3) A state of mind that is free from impurities, thoughts, or distractions, allowing for the emergence of right knowledge.[52] (4) A state of mental clarity and freedom from impurities achieved through the performance of obligatory rites.[53] (5) A state of mind that is free from desires and attachments, enabling a person to understand the nature of impermanence.[54]

From: Vivekachudamani

(1) A state of mind cleansed from distractions and impurities achieved through constant practice.[55] (2) A state of mind that is free from the influences of Rajas and Tamas, conducive to liberation.[56] (3) The quality of minds that are free from impurities, allowing access to the profound truth.[57]

From: Thirty minor Upanishads

(1) A state of mental clarity and tranquility that is necessary for spiritual growth and understanding.[58] (2) A state of mental clarity and purity required to engage in deep meditation and realize ultimate truth.[59] (3) The state of mind that is without desire and seeks emancipation.[60]

From: Chandogya Upanishad (english Translation)

(1) A mind that is free from distractions and impurities, necessary to perceive the Self and the true nature of reality.[61] (2) A state of mental clarity achieved through the consumption of pure food, leading to deeper understanding and control over one’s thoughts.[62]

From: Mandukya Upanishad (Gaudapa Karika and Shankara Bhashya)

(1) The undifferentiated, changeless essence that exists in the subtle state of consciousness.[63]

From: Kaivalya Upanishad

(1) Individuals who possess clarity of thought and intention, enabling them to perceive reality accurately.[64]

From: Kena Upanishad with Shankara’s Commentary

(1) A state of mental clarity and freedom from desires that enables the pursuit of spiritual knowledge concerning the Brahman.[65]

Vedanta refers to a school of orthodox Hindu philosophy (astika), drawing its subject-matter from the Upanishads. There are a number of sub-schools of Vedanta, however all of them expound on the basic teaching of the ultimate reality (brahman) and liberation (moksha) of the individual soul (atman).

Significance in Vaishnavism (Vaishava dharma):
Vaishnavism Books

From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)

(1) A state of consciousness that is free from distractions, crucial for effective devotion.[66] (2) the aspect of the mind that is free from impurities, allowing the manifestation of Bhagavan[67]

From: Tiruvaymoli (Thiruvaimozhi): English translation

(1) A state of mental clarity and purity that is essential for effective worship, indicating the need to seek nothing in return.[68] (2) A state of mental clarity and purity achieved after surrendering to the Lord, enabling proper worship and adoration.[69]

From: Chaitanya Bhagavata

(1) Minds that are free from material distractions and focused solely on the Absolute Truth and pure spiritual experiences.[70]

From: Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu

(1) The minds of individuals who have attained a clear and untainted state of consciousness.[71]

From: Prem Sagar (English translation)

(1) A state of spiritual and mental clarity that is encouraged during the meditation on Govardhana.[72]

Vaishnava or vaishnavism (vaishnavism) represents a tradition of Hinduism worshipping Vishnu as the supreme Lord. Similar to the Shaktism and Shaivism traditions, Vaishnavism also developed as an individual movement, famous for its exposition of the dashavatara (‘ten avatars of Vishnu’).

Significance in Yoga (school of philosophy):
Yoga Books

From: Yoga-sutras (Vedanta Commentaries)

(1) Minds that have been cleansed of biases and desires, allowing for a greater appreciation of spiritual love.[73] (2) A mind in the state of nirvichara samadhi that has transcended minor thought-waves.[74] (3) A state of mental clarity where the mind is free from disturbances, equating to the essence of Atman.[75]

From: Shat-cakra-nirupana (the six bodily centres)

(1) A reference to the untainted intelligence manifesting as the inner Spirit in spiritual contexts.[76] (2) Describes Hakini's mental state, emphasizing clarity and purity of thought, essential in spiritual practice.[77]

Yoga is originally considered a branch of Hindu philosophy (astika), but both ancient and modern Yoga combine the physical, mental and spiritual. Yoga teaches various physical techniques also known as asanas (postures), used for various purposes (eg., meditation, contemplation, relaxation).

Significance in Dharmashastra (religious law):
Dharmashastra Books

From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi

(1) Emphasizes the importance of maintaining thoughts that are free from desires to possess what belongs to others.[78] (2) A mental state free from distractions, aiming for an effective serving of food.[79]

Dharmashastra contains the instructions (shastra) regarding religious conduct of livelihood (dharma), ceremonies, jurisprudence (study of law) and more. It is categorized as smriti, an important and authoritative selection of books dealing with the Hindu lifestyle.

Significance in Ayurveda (science of life):
Ayurveda Books

From: Charaka Samhita (English translation)

(1) The state of mental clarity achieved through purification practices, allowing for true understanding and perception.[80]

From: Journal of Ayurveda and Integrated Medical Sciences

(1) It leads to good deeds, restoring energy and vitality daily, and it is fostered through hygiene practices that maintain external and internal cleanliness.[81]

Ayurveda is a branch of Indian science dealing with medicine, herbalism, taxology, anatomy, surgery, alchemy and related topics. Traditional practice of Ayurveda in ancient India dates back to at least the first millenium BC. Literature is commonly written in Sanskrit using various poetic metres.

Jain concept of 'Pure mind'

Jainism Books

In Jainism, "Pure mind" signifies a clear, untainted mental state aligned with the teachings of the Jina, free from impurities and distractions, essential for spiritual clarity, virtue, and practicing proper conduct.

Significance in Jainism (general):

From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra

(1) A state of mental clarity and devotion with which Lalitanga went to other sacred sites.[82] (2) A clear and untainted mind that holds the teachings of the Jina, indicating mental clarity and virtue.[83] (3) The untainted and virtuous state of mind of King Siddhartha where Dharma dwells.[84]

From: Uttaradhyayana Sutra

(1) The state of clarity and spiritual purity that one should strive for, as indicated in the conversation between the monk and Sanjaya.[85] (2) A state of clarity and mental cleanliness, free from negative thoughts and distractions.[86] (3) A mental state free of impurities and distractions, contributing to clarity and insight.[87]

From: Sutrakritanga (English translation)

(1) A mental state free from impurities, desires, and distractions, essential for practicing proper conduct in a spiritual context.[88]

Jainism is an Indian religion of Dharma whose doctrine revolves around harmlessness (ahimsa) towards every living being. The two major branches (Digambara and Svetambara) of Jainism stimulate self-control (or, shramana, ‘self-reliance’) and spiritual development through a path of peace for the soul to progess to the ultimate goal.

The concept of Pure mind in local and regional sources

History Books

Pure mind is a state of mental clarity essential for perceiving ultimate truth, enabling spiritual clarity and devotion. It emphasizes transparency, virtue, and avoidance of negativity, fostering remembrance of God and attracting divine favor.

Significance in India history and geography:

From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda

(1) The text emphasizes that the value of ethics to a Yogi lies in its ability to purify the mind, and a pure mind makes it easier to control, suggesting a direct correlation between moral purity and mental control.[89] (2) The great Yogis are blissful because they, with their pure minds, never crossed the river of desire, according to the provided text.[90] (3) A state of mental clarity achieved through pure food and the avoidance of negative emotions, which facilitates a constant memory of God and is the goal.[91] (4) This is where the One is seen, not with the eyes, but through the mind, which must be pure to perceive the ultimate truth.[92]

From: Triveni Journal

(1) This is the state of mind that is naturally pure, which is clouded by frustrations.[93] (2) A state of mental clarity and cleanliness, emphasized as essential for meaningful prayer.[94] (3) A mind that is transparent and virtuous, as emphasized by Tagore for achieving knowledge and spiritual clarity.[95]

From: Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints

(1) A state of mental clarity and focus on spiritual truths, often achieved through devotion and the remembrance of God.[96] (2) Highlights Tuka’s virtuous and sincere nature, which attracts divine favor.[97]

Plural form: Pure minds.