Significance of Reality
Synonyms: Truth, Actuality, Existence, Fact, Tangible, Real life, Authenticity, Veracity
In Dutch: Realiteit; In Finnish: Todellisuus; In Spanish: Realidad; In German: Wirklichkeit; In French: Réalité; In Swedish: Verklighet; In Malay: Realiti; In Italian: Realtà; In Polish: Rzeczywistość; In Portugese: Realidade
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Reality'
In Buddhism, Reality is the ultimate truth beyond perceived existence. It's the true nature of things, as they are, not as they seem. Understanding Reality, through correct inference, is key to enlightenment, urging one to embrace truth over illusion.
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) It is the state of affairs that may not align with expectations, leading to the formulation of a wish to advance internal state and promote clarity.[1] (2) Describes the belief in the truth or genuineness of something, which people might hold for the ten points of comparison.[2] (3) It is also known as tattvartha, maitri has as its object first an arbitrary characteristic, then, as object, it.[3] (4) Also known as dravyaparyeshana, it is the essence of existence. The text mentions that the Buddha looked for a reality in dharmas without ever finding it.[4]
From: Lankavatara Sutra
(1) There is this, and it is not to be qualified as pure, nor is it to be said defiled.[5] (2) In the Buddhist context, it refers to the ultimate truth that transcends conventional distinctions of existence and non-existence.[6]
From: Mahayana Mahaparinirvana Sutra
(1) The text presents 'Reality' as something about which individuals may have doubts, suggesting that its true nature is a subject of deep inquiry and understanding within the teachings.[7]
From: Akshayamatinirdesha [english]
(1) Great joy has the form of reality since it effects just that, emphasizing the transformative power of this profound spiritual experience, which aligns one with the true nature of existence.[8]
From: Tattvasangraha [with commentary]
(1) According to the text, there is no other reality than the particular combinations of earth and other material substances, highlighting a materialistic perspective that rejects non-material realities.[9] (2) According to the text, reality is characterized by the capability of effective action, contrasting with illusoriness; if something can produce an effect, it must be real and not like 'intentional destruction'.[10] (3) The provided text emphasizes that, despite any perceived similarities or shared characteristics, elements are fundamentally distinct and separate from one another.[11] (4) The state of things as they actually exist, rather than as they may appear or are conceived in thought.[12] (5) The actual state of things as they are, which must be clarified through correct inference and understanding.[13]
From: Abhidhamma in Daily Life
(1) A state of existence that can be classified in different ways, with a deeper understanding of it leading to a deeper understanding of the things in and around oneself.[14] (2) The state of things as they actually exist, as emphasized in the teachings of the Buddha.[15]
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) The provided text describes that a single day’s life of a wise person, who is aware of reality, is greater than even hundred years of life of an individual who is bereft of wisdom and insight.[16] (2) This is the true nature of existence, the core of Buddhist teachings, and the state that those who are aware of it do not cling to, which is the path to enlightenment.[17]
Hindu concept of 'Reality'
In Hinduism, "Reality" signifies the true, fundamental nature of existence. It transcends language, appearances, and perceptions, encompassing Brahman, the source of the universe, and ultimate truth. It is revealed through knowledge, meditation, and the dissolution of illusion, representing the eternal and unchanging essence of all things.
From: Vivekachudamani
(1) A fundamental aspect of existence or truth, serving as a source of profound joy and contentment for an enlightened individual, devoid of ego-centered notions.[18] (2) Experiencing this is not a direct consequence of performing actions, but results from the clarity of a purified intellect.[19] (3) This term refers to Brahman, which is the subject of meditation and is considered the true nature of existence, as opposed to the unreal or the universe.[20] (4) When fully realized, the veil obscuring Truth disappears, resulting in the elimination of false knowledge and the end of suffering caused by its effects.[21] (5) The ultimate truth or existence that is beyond the temporary physical manifestations.[22]
From: Mandukya Upanishad (Gaudapa Karika and Shankara Bhashya)
(1) "Reality" in this context refers to the ultimate truth or essence, which is ever-existent and unchanging, standing in contrast to the perceived world of illusion.[23] (2) The concept of "reality" is central, with Atman being identified as the ultimate reality, and the text contrasting this with the unreal nature of changeable and negatable objects.[24] (3) This is changeless and unborn, and it appears to undergo a modification only through Maya, therefore duality is not the ultimate.[25] (4) Reality is the state of being real, and no reality can be attached to any of them.[26] (5) This is independent of Brahman, and the Shruti negates the reality of the means by pointing out the incomprehensibility of Atman, as its reason.[27]
From: Chandogya Upanishad (english Translation)
(1) It is described as being nothing apart from the Self, indicating that everything, including names and forms, is ultimately a part of the Self.[28] (2) Only the three colors are considered this, implying that other aspects are transient or illusory.[29] (3) The three colours are considered to be the reality, emphasizing that the three colours are the only thing that is real.[30] (4) The state of things as they actually exist, in contrast to appearances or the illusory nature of the phenomenal world.[31] (5) Referring to the true essence or substance of something, as opposed to its superficial appearances or designations.[32]
From: Mandukya Upanishad
(1) Reality, coupled with Truth and Absolute Knowledge, is the only existence, making discrimination and decision-making processes unnecessary because of a state of total comprehension.[33] (2) There is nothing that can be proved to have a reality, there is nothing that is real other than "I", as in a dream it is "I" alone.[34] (3) This represents a state of being outside the dream where the subjects are not present, indicating the absence of these creatures, and a different environment.[35] (4) The true nature of things, is the basis for understanding the cause without a cause, contrasting with what is imagined based on logical reasoning.[36] (5) A state of understanding and perception that transcends illusory experiences, embodying the ultimate truth.[37]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad Bhashya Vartika
(1) It is fundamentally one and undivided, contrasting with the perception of duality caused by avidya, as emphasized in certain passages.[38] (2) The state of things as they actually exist, contrasted in the text with the concept of non-existence.[39]
From: Thirty minor Upanishads
(1) The efforts of man that are according to scriptures tend to Reality, while those that transcend scriptures tend to harm, according to the provided text.[40] (2) The ultimate truth or existence that is revealed through the dissolution of illusion and ignorance.[41]
From: Kaivalya Upanishad
(1) The ultimate truth of existence, which is ascertained by ascetics through their pure minds, the knowledge of Vedanta, and sannyasa.[42]
From: Mundaka Upanishad with Shankara’s Commentary
(1) The true nature of existence that transcends superficial appearances.[43]
From: Brahma Sutras (Shankara Bhashya)
(1) A state of existence as understood in the text, contrasting the perceived multiplicity of souls with the unity of the self.[44]
From: Mandukya Upanishad (Madhva commentary)
(1) The true nature of existence as attributed to the Lord, which is not perceived due to ignorance and illusion.[45]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad
(1) Reality is the basis upon which illusory manifestations rest, and it is this underlying reality that Brahman represents.[46]
From: Vakyapadiya of Bhartrihari
(1) Reality suggests that both multiplicity and unity are unreal, contrasting with worldly usage which is based upon what appears to the mind.[47] (2) The text describes it as absolutely different from all appearances and beyond all transformations. It cannot be described as one, connected, or undergoing real transformation, as these presuppose something different. It is free from all limiting factors and without any inner differentiation.[48] (3) The fundamental nature of all things, existing eternally and composed of both existence and non-existence, which is expressed through different words.[49] (4) This signifies the actual existence of things, and it is a state that transcends the realm of mere assumptions and theoretical discussions, according to the provided text.[50] (5) The ultimate truth or existence, contrasting with the forms of transformations that do not belong to it.[51]
From: Laghu-yoga-vasistha
(1) It is that Jnana which exists without Samkalpa, in a state intermediate between the conception of an object and that of another.[52]
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) It is the One Being that becomes and unbecomes anything, it is the only Being, and all things that becomes. It should be recognized by the wise, rather than shadows or fleeting baubles.[53]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) The state of things as they actually exist, particularly in a spiritual context as clarified by Lord Vishvambhara.[54]
From: Sri Krishna-Chaitanya
(1) If the brain of an insane Person be capable of supplying the clue to the Knowledge of the Reality.[55]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) The incarnations are presented as topmost reality, especially when viewed by devotees, devoid of any illusory connection, offering a profound spiritual experience.[56]
From: Yoga-sutras (Vedanta Commentaries)
(1) The fundamental truth that underlies all existence, as per the philosophy of yoga.[57]
From: History of Indian Medicine (and Ayurveda)
(1) Reality is something humans are confronted with in a tremendously vital manner when facing pain, disease, and death, which prompts them to seek understanding and solutions.[58]
Jain concept of 'Reality'
In Jainism, "Reality" is a highly revered and significant work by Professor Jain. Excerpts were used in translation due to the text's profound impact and importance within the tradition.
From: Tattvartha Sutra (with commentary)
(1) "Reality" is Professor Jain’s magnum opus, from which excerpts were taken during the present translation due to overwhelming reverence for it.[59]
The concept of Reality in local and regional sources
Reality encompasses the actual state of things, influencing understanding and perception. It includes the true nature of existence, the universe as perceived, and the unchanging essence beyond the physical world. Reality also refers to the ultimate truth, the foundation of existence, and the knowledge of God.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) In the novels of Sri Viswanatha, reality gains new dimensions, depicted as a luminous halo surrounding man from consciousness to the end.[60] (2) Something that can only be apprehended by sealing the senses, suggesting that true understanding lies beyond the realm of sensory experience, requiring a transcendence of the material world to grasp the true nature of existence.[61] (3) Reality comprehends both the visible universe and an immeasurable beyond, and it includes unimaginable stores of energy and power inaccessible to science, so understanding life's significance requires reckoning with both the metaphysical and the physical.[62] (4) It is described as having three theoretic forms: ‘Gnana’ (the intellectual path), ‘Karma’ (the ethical or moral path), and ‘Bhakti’ or ‘Rasa’ (the aesthetic or devotional path).[63] (5) It is something that people seek, as they are part of it, similar to a drop of water seeking the sea.[64]
From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda
(1) This concept, the subject of the lecture, explores the essence of what remains constant and unchanging in contrast to fleeting aspects of existence, which he discussed.[65] (2) Reality is the underlying truth, that one Infinite Existence, that is the foundation upon which dreams are built.[66] (3) This is of the universe as seen through our mind; separating ourselves from the Absolute and attributing certain qualities to It give us Ishvara.[67] (4) This describes what is seen in the heaven of the forefathers, as in a dream, or in the heaven called the Gandharva, or the Brahmaloka.[68] (5) This refers to the ultimate truth or essence of existence, beyond the limitations of the physical world, which is what we must go to.[69]
The concept of Reality in scientific sources
Based on regional sources, "Reality" signifies the truth about the HIV epidemic. The text emphasizes the crucial need to confront and acknowledge this reality, suggesting an urgent call for awareness and acceptance of the epidemic's facts.
From: Religions Journal (MDPI)
(1) It can be understood and seen more clearly through the properly attuned, washing away familiarity and enabling participation in creation, which results in new things.[70] (2) Reality, in the context of the text, is speculated about and re-defined, and the re-defined reality no longer exists prior to definition, leading to the misconception that definitions themselves constitute reality.[71] (3) According to the text, identifying blood as water, flesh as earth, heat as fire, breath as wind, and space as all-pervasive allows one to de-personalize their experience and avoid problematic distinctions regarding reality.[72] (4) The provided information indicates that the reality where people experience faith, especially marginalized communities facing poverty and oppression, is central to theology.[73] (5) Reality is equated with the thusness, the ultimate, the selflessness of persons, and the reality realm, through permanence, as stated by Buddha in Chapter 4.[74]
From: Sustainability Journal (MDPI)
(1) It is a popular topic in the field. A class of displays on the reality-virtuality continuum. It is the future of immersive learning, empowering STEM with the Arts.[75] (2) Reality, in the context of virtual fashion, pertains to how realistically virtual clothes replicate real-world fabric textures and draping effects, enhancing the consumer experience.[76] (3) Reality represents the state of things as they actually exist, as opposed to an idealistic or notional idea of them, affecting perceptions and actions.[77] (4) Reality is the assessment of established residential compounds in Sulaimaniya, Iraq, comparing them against urban planning regulations and space syntax theories.[78] (5) Reality is constructed through actions and serves as a basis for interpretation, influencing concrete steps and subsequent outcomes that interact with the surroundings.[79]
From: International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health (MDPI)
(1) When children are surrounded and supported by an appropriate mix of this element and abstract play materials, their capacity to participate in such activity is triggered.[80]
From: South African Journal of HIV Medicine
(1) This is the truth about the HIV epidemic, and the text stresses the need to face this reality.[81]