Significance of Pure mind
The concept of Pure mind across various philosophical and spiritual traditions signifies a state of mental clarity and purity. In Buddhism, it represents a focus free from bias and distraction, essential for understanding and spiritual growth. Jainism emphasizes clarity untainted by desires, while Vaishnavism regards it as crucial for devotion and worship. Other perspectives like Tibetan Buddhism, Yoga, and Vedanta highlight the importance of a mind free from impurities for achieving deeper spiritual insights and enlightenment. Ultimately, Pure mind is central to attaining a higher understanding across these traditions.
Synonyms: Clear mind, Serene mind, Calm mind, Unbiased mind, Innocent mind, Peaceful mind., Tranquil mind, Peaceful mind
In Dutch: Zuivere geest; In Finnish: Puhdas mieli; In Spanish: Mente pura
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'
In Buddhism, a Pure mind signifies mental clarity devoid of defilements, doubts, and attachments, essential for understanding teachings, achieving enlightenment, and engaging in spiritual growth, ultimately leading to liberation and the realization of true wisdom.
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) A state of mental clarity free from distractions, which is essential for successfully practicing meditation on the Buddhas.[1] (2) Anasravacitta, a state of mind that is free from attachments and delusions, characterized by clarity and insight.[2] (3) The state of being wholly focused and devoid of negative emotions or thoughts toward parents at the moment of reincarnation.[3] (4) A mental state free from greed, hatred, and delusion, essential for spiritual practice.[4] (5) A state of mind that is free from negative intentions, essential for true generosity of the Dharma.[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: Lotus Sutra
(1) Mental states free from doubt and attachment, essential for receiving Buddhist teachings.[13]
From: Bodhisattvacharyavatara
(1) A state of consciousness that does not see flaws in others, reflecting a higher understanding and clarity of perception.[14]
From: Avatamsaka Sutra (flower adornment sutra)—Preface
(1) A state of mental clarity which allows for increasing Bodhi (enlightenment) day by day.[15]
From: Vimalakirti Nirdesa Sutra
(1) A state of mental clarity and purity conducive to receiving and practicing the Dharma.[16]
From: The Sutra of Queen Śrīmālā of the Lion’s Roar
(1) The state of mind of Shrimala and her attendants as they revered and praised the Buddha.[17]
From: Mahavastu (great story)
(1) A state of mind untainted by distractions or impurities, inherent in Buddhas that leads to clear perception.[18]
From: Bodhinyana
(1) A state of mental clarity free from defilements, essential for recognizing and understanding the teachings of the Buddha.[19] (2) A mental state free from attachment, confusion, and disturbances, allowing for clarity and understanding.[20] (3) A state of mind free from bias and distraction where true understanding arises and can be cultivated through diligent practice.[21]
From: Apadana commentary (Atthakatha)
(1) A state of mental clarity and virtue that is emphasized for spiritual practice and receptivity.[22]
From: The Great Chariot
(1) The state of being mentally clear and aligned with wholesome qualities, open to receiving teachings.[23]
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]
From: Guhyagarbha Tantra (with Commentary)
(1) Pure mind is the state referenced by Dharmodgata wherein all things are seen as naturally pure, unencumbered by extraneous thoughts or analyses.[28] (2) A representation of the unclouded state of consciousness that embodies clarity and fullness, central to understanding buddha-mind.[29]
From: Tattvasangraha [with commentary]
(1) A state of mental clarity achieved by ceasing ignorance and attachments, which leads to liberation according to the text.[30]
Hindu concept of 'Pure mind'
In Hinduism, a Pure mind embodies spiritual clarity, moral integrity, and freedom from desires. It fosters peace, wisdom, and focused devotion, essential for meditation and understanding the ultimate truth and consciousness of Brahman.
From: Shiva Purana
(1) The state of mental clarity and virtue necessary for receiving blessings from Lord Shiva and attaining Siddhis.[31] (2) A state of mental clarity and purity required for successful worship and attaining spiritual benefits.[32] (3) The state of mental clarity and devotion required for listeners to gain the blessings and auspiciousness from the narrative.[33] (4) A mental state free from distraction and impurities, focused on spiritual growth.[34] (5) The mental state required by devotees when performing worship to ensure its effectiveness and purity.[35]
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) A state of mental clarity and purity likened to filtered water, free from distractions or impurities.[36] (2) A state of mind that readily accepts instruction and knowledge, likened to a surface that retains oil.[37] (3) A mind free from desires and impurities that reflects the truth accurately.[38] (4) A mind that is properly purified from doubts, akin to the mentee of Vyasa.[39]
From: Skanda Purana
(1) A state of mental clarity and generosity that is required when making a gift.[40] (2) The mental state required for true devotion, emphasizing clarity and purity of intention in worship.[41] (3) A state of mental clarity and intention free of distractions or impurities, essential for effective worship and prayer.[42]
From: Padma Purana
(1) A mental state characterized by clarity and devotion, essential for performing rituals and achieving spiritual goals.[43] (2) A mental state free from impurities and distractions, essential for genuine spiritual practices and offerings.[44] (3) A mental state required for the daily recitation of hymns to achieve various spiritual benefits.[45]
From: Bhagavata Purana
(1) A mental state achieved through adherence to one's prescribed duties (dharma), allowing for clear contemplation of reality.[46] (2) A state of mental clarity and focus achieved through the practice of listening to spiritual teachings.[47] (3) A state of mental clarity and purity which leads to the experience of infinite bliss and absorption into the universal consciousness (Brahman).[48]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) Thoughts that are free from corruption, malevolence, or impure intentions.[49] (2) The state of mental and spiritual clarity desired by individuals who make frequent gifts, crucial for receiving the full merits of their actions.[50] (3) A mind free from attachment and desire, seen as the ultimate state of clarity and understanding in spiritual practices.[51]
From: Laghu-yoga-vasistha
(1) A mind that is free from desires and distractions, enabling clarity and spiritual understanding.[52] (2) A mind that is cleansed of impurities and desires, allowing the seeker to attain peace and wisdom.[53] (3) A state of consciousness free from distractions and impurities, pivotal for spiritual realization.[54]
From: Brahma Purana
(1) A state of mind that is considered holy and is essential for understanding the true path to heavenly realms.[55] (2) A state of mental clarity and spiritual focus conducive to worship and the observance of holy rites.[56]
From: Gautami Mahatmya
(1) Daksha's sacrifice was guarded with purity of mind, indicating the importance of mental clarity and focus in rituals.[57] (2) The state of mental clarity and sincerity that Bali possesses, allowing him to receive blessings from Vishnu.[58]
From: Anugita (English translation)
(1) A state of mental clarity and integrity that allows for the expansion of merit through good actions.[59]
From: Vishnu Purana
(1) Represent individuals free from selfish thoughts, akin to clear waters adorned with beauty.[60]
From: Bhagavad-gita Mahatmya
(1) A quality attributed to the king or his son, suggesting spiritual clarity and moral integrity.[61]
From: Harivamsha Purana
(1) A state of mind that is free from impurities and distractions, allowing for focused understanding and concentration.[62]
From: Lalitopakhyana (Lalita Mahatmya)
(1) A mental state free from distractions or impurities, essential for devotional practices.[63]
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.[64] (2) A state of mental clarity and purity necessary for a spiritual aspirant to gain Brahman-knowledge.[65] (3) A state of mind that is free from impurities, thoughts, or distractions, allowing for the emergence of right knowledge.[66] (4) A state of mental clarity and freedom from impurities achieved through the performance of obligatory rites.[67] (5) A state of mind that is free from desires and attachments, enabling a person to understand the nature of impermanence.[68]
From: Vivekachudamani
(1) A state of mind cleansed from distractions and impurities achieved through constant practice.[69] (2) A state of mind that is free from the influences of Rajas and Tamas, conducive to liberation.[70] (3) The quality of minds that are free from impurities, allowing access to the profound truth.[71]
From: Thirty minor Upanishads
(1) A state of mental clarity and tranquility that is necessary for spiritual growth and understanding.[72] (2) A state of mental clarity and purity required to engage in deep meditation and realize ultimate truth.[73] (3) The state of mind that is without desire and seeks emancipation.[74]
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.[75] (2) A state of mental clarity achieved through the consumption of pure food, leading to deeper understanding and control over one’s thoughts.[76]
From: Mandukya Upanishad (Gaudapa Karika and Shankara Bhashya)
(1) The undifferentiated, changeless essence that exists in the subtle state of consciousness.[77]
From: Kaivalya Upanishad
(1) Individuals who possess clarity of thought and intention, enabling them to perceive reality accurately.[78]
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.[79]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) A state of consciousness that is free from distractions, crucial for effective devotion.[80] (2) the aspect of the mind that is free from impurities, allowing the manifestation of Bhagavan[81]
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.[82] (2) A state of mental clarity and purity achieved after surrendering to the Lord, enabling proper worship and adoration.[83]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) Minds that are free from material distractions and focused solely on the Absolute Truth and pure spiritual experiences.[84]
From: Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu
(1) The minds of individuals who have attained a clear and untainted state of consciousness.[85]
From: Prem Sagar (English translation)
(1) A state of spiritual and mental clarity that is encouraged during the meditation on Govardhana.[86]
From: Yoga-sutras (Vedanta Commentaries)
(1) Minds that have been cleansed of biases and desires, allowing for a greater appreciation of spiritual love.[87] (2) A mind in the state of nirvichara samadhi that has transcended minor thought-waves.[88] (3) A state of mental clarity where the mind is free from disturbances, equating to the essence of Atman.[89]
From: Shat-cakra-nirupana (the six bodily centres)
(1) A reference to the untainted intelligence manifesting as the inner Spirit in spiritual contexts.[90] (2) Describes Hakini's mental state, emphasizing clarity and purity of thought, essential in spiritual practice.[91]
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.[92] (2) A mental state free from distractions, aiming for an effective serving of food.[93]
From: Shaiva Upanishads (A Critical Study)
(1) A state of mental clarity and cleanliness, free from impurities and distractions, important for meditation.[94] (2) Minds that are free from impurities, allowing for a clearer understanding of reality.[95]
From: Charaka Samhita (English translation)
(1) The state of mental clarity achieved through purification practices, allowing for true understanding and perception.[96]
From: Varahi Tantra (English Study)
(1) A state of mental clarity and purity that is necessary for effectively performing the purashcarana.[97]
Jain concept of 'Pure mind'
In Jainism, a Pure mind embodies mental clarity, virtue, and cleanliness, free from negativity and distractions. It represents the ideal state for spiritual practice, highlighted in dialogues like that between the monk and Sanjaya.
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.[98] (2) A state of clarity and mental cleanliness, free from negative thoughts and distractions.[99] (3) A mental state free of impurities and distractions, contributing to clarity and insight.[100]
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) A clear and untainted mind that holds the teachings of the Jina, indicating mental clarity and virtue.[101] (2) The untainted and virtuous state of mind of King Siddhartha where Dharma dwells.[102]
From: Sutrakritanga (English translation)
(1) A mental state free from impurities, desires, and distractions, essential for practicing proper conduct in a spiritual context.[103]
The concept of Pure mind in local and regional sources
The term "Pure mind" signifies mental clarity and spiritual focus derived from devotion to God, reflecting Tuka's virtuous nature that draws divine favor. It emphasizes the significance of spiritual truths in achieving inner peace.
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.[104] (2) Highlights Tuka’s virtuous and sincere nature, which attracts divine favor.[105]
From: Triveni Journal
(1) A mind that is transparent and virtuous, as emphasized by Tagore for achieving knowledge and spiritual clarity.[106]