Significance of Renunciation
Synonyms: Abandonment, Relinquishment, Rejection, Forsaking, Surrender, Repudiation, Withdrawal
In Dutch: Verzaking; In Finnish: Luopuminen; In Spanish: Renuncia; In German: Verzicht; In Malay: Penolakan; In Swedish: Avsägelse; In French: Renonciation; In Italian: Rinuncia; In Polish: Zrzeczenie się; In Portugese: Renúncia
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Renunciation'
In Buddhism, renunciation signifies relinquishing worldly attachments and desires. It involves giving up possessions, relationships, and pleasures to pursue spiritual growth, enlightenment, and liberation from suffering. This pivotal act, often symbolized by leaving worldly life, is a pathway to understanding non-attachment and achieving nirvana.
From: Maha Buddhavamsa—The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) Renunciation is a significant aspect of fulfilling the paramis, as practiced by Bodhisattas in their pursuit of enlightenment.[1] (2) Renunciation, also known as nekkhamma, is the merit of the absence of defects and the paucity of suffering, beginning with monkhood and ending in Nibbana, contrasting with sensual pleasures.[2] (3) The act of abandoning worldly life and possessions, exemplified by Mahakancana and his companions, who sought spiritual practice in a forest.[3] (4) Renunciation is the act of Prince Revata leaving the royal household, as described in the provided text.[4] (5) The decision made by Bodhisatta Phussa to leave behind his royal life after witnessing four omens.[5]
From: Milindapanha (questions of King Milinda)
(1) The act of giving up something for the purpose of eliminating sorrow and preventing future sorrow.[6] (2) The act of leaving behind worldly attachments and desires in pursuit of spiritual enlightenment.[7] (3) The decision-making moment regarding when the Bodisat will renounce worldly life in pursuit of enlightenment.[8] (4) The act of giving up worldly pleasures and attachments as part of the spiritual path to becoming a Samana.[9]
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) The act of rejecting worldly possessions or desires; essential in the path of a monk.[10] (2) The act of giving up worldly life and attachments, undertaken by Prince Siddhattha in the pursuit of spiritual truth.[11] (3) The act of giving up worldly desires and attachments, which the Buddha practiced in his quest for enlightenment.[12]
From: Vinaya (2): The Mahavagga
(1) The desire to give up worldly life and obligations in order to pursue spiritual goals.[13] (2) The act of giving up worldly possessions and attachments as emphasized in the Buddha's teachings.[14]
From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) A significant event in the story where the characters renounce worldly life to pursue a religious path.[15] (2) The act of giving up worldly possessions and desires for a higher spiritual purpose.[16]
From: Guide to Tipitaka
(1) A significant theme in the stories where the Bodhisatta shows the willingness to give up worldly attachments.[17] (2) A parami involving the willingness to give up worldly attachments and desires.[18]
From: Patipada (path of practice)
(1) The source of courage that allows one to gain strength, particularly in the context of the Dhutanga Kammatthana Bhikkhus, which can lead to gaining results, especially when facing adversity.[19] (2) The act of giving up worldly attachments and desires to focus on spiritual goals within Buddhist practice.[20]
From: Visuddhimagga (the pah of purification)
(1) The act of rejecting or letting go of sense desires as a means to surmount all suffering.[21]
From: Cetasikas
(1) Renunciation is the act of giving up sensuous pleasures for a greater understanding of non-attachment and the pursuit of spiritual growth.[22]
From: Abhidhamma in Daily Life (by Ashin Janakabhivamsa)
(1) It is related to becoming a recluse or a Bhikkhu, to give charity, to observe the Uposatha precepts, to meditate, etc.[23]
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) Renunciation, or tyaga, is a dharma that arises in the mind of the giver, opposing the thought of avarice, and is linked to the merit of generosity.[24] (2) This refers to the act of letting go of attachments, as described in the text, and the desire for material possessions and worldly pleasures.[25] (3) This is what the mind should seek, and the mind should experience disgust in the presence of all the universes and seek renunciation.[26] (4) The practice of giving up worldly desires and attachments as explained by the Buddha in his teachings.[27] (5) Renunciation (vairagya) is the practice of letting go of attachments and desires, recognized as the gateway to achieving the first dhyana.[28]
From: Bodhisattvacharyavatara
(1) The act of abandoning worldly concerns recognized as lacking real meaning.[29] (2) The act of rejecting worldly attachments and desires to focus on spiritual practice.[30] (3) The wish to be liberated from worldly life and suffering, fostering a mindset necessary for deep practice and realization of buddha nature.[31]
From: Mahavastu (great story)
(1) The act of giving up worldly pleasures and attachments to pursue spiritual growth.[32] (2) The voluntary act of giving up worldly possessions, relationships, and comforts in pursuit of spiritual goals.[33]
From: Vimalakirti Nirdesa Sutra
(1) The act of giving up worldly attachments and desires, portrayed in the text as fundamental for spiritual growth and liberation from suffering.[34]
From: Apadana commentary (Atthakatha)
(1) A perfection that involves being dissatisfied with all existences and desiring escape.[35] (2) Renunciation is described as a decision made by individuals, which involves putting bowls into knapsacks, hanging them at their shoulders, and descending from a palatial height, symbolizing a departure from worldly attachments.[36] (3) The decision made by the Bodhisatta to abandon worldly life for spiritual attainment as a monk.[37] (4) The act of Anuruddha leaving behind household life to become a monk, greatly impacting his spiritual path.[38]
From: Hualin International Journal of Buddhist Studies
(1) This is the act of joining an island society because one is drawn to its unique values, and from a worldly perspective, it appears attractive, though it comes with its own risks, such as the possibility of not obtaining food.[39] (2) The paper seeks to situate Sengzhi as an example of early forms of renunciation for women in China while also showing that—far from leading eremitic lives—virtuosi Buddhist nuns were able to leverage their Buddhist identity into surprising places.[40]
From: The Great Chariot
(1) Renunciation is a quality absent in those who are not saddened by cyclic existence, preventing them from escaping suffering and attachment to the world.[41]
Hindu concept of 'Renunciation'
In Hinduism, Renunciation involves relinquishing worldly attachments, possessions, and desires. It is a path to spiritual liberation, often practiced by mendicants, and considered a form of duty and penance. However, it is sometimes seen as less effective than devotion, and is crucial for achieving spiritual goals.
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) The act of giving up worldly possessions and desires, and renunciation should only be adopted in times of distress, according to the speaker.[42] (2) Renunciation has been preached with respect to silent recitation in the Vedanta, emphasizing the importance of detachment and giving up worldly desires in this spiritual practice.[43] (3) Renunciation of all kinds of attachments is the highest means prescribed for Emancipation, as the narrative emphasizes its importance in achieving spiritual freedom.[44] (4) Renunciation, leading to the attainment of Brahma, rests upon the senses, along with acts leading to heaven and ascertainment of truth, indicating its importance in spiritual advancement.[45] (5) According to the learned, renunciation is understood as the rejection of works that are driven by desire, highlighting a detachment from selfish motivations.[46]
From: Bhagavad-gita-rahasya (or Karma-yoga Shastra)
(1) A practice that can be lifted from lower levels, where objects are given up, to loftier heights, where desires are dead.[47] (2) Renunciation (samnyasa) is a path advocated for obtaining the highest happiness or Release, involving giving up worldly life and abandoning actions prescribed by sacred texts.[48] (3) Renunciation is one of the principles found in the New Testament, and it is believed to have been taken into the Christian religion from Buddhism, and therefore indirectly from the Vedic religion, and is also associated with the writers of the Upanishads.[49] (4) A fundamental principle in Buddhism and the Gita advocating for the abandonment of worldly life to achieve spiritual goals.[50]
From: Anugita (English translation)
(1) According to the text, renunciation is considered penance by the ancients who perceived the established truth, and it is essential for those devoted to the Brahman and wishing for the supreme.[51] (2) It is considered the best penance, alongside knowledge being considered the highest thing.[52] (3) Therefore a man of understanding should practice renunciation, giving prominence to knowledge, as stated in the text.[53] (4) The voluntary rejection of worldly pleasures and attachments in pursuit of deeper spiritual truths and freedom.[54]
From: Bhagavadgita
(1) The text indicates that renunciation and pursuit of action are both instruments of happiness, but pursuit of action is considered superior, highlighting the nature of renunciation.[55] (2) Also known as devotion; it involves renouncing all fancies, and it is a necessary step to becoming a devotee.[56] (3) The act of rejecting worldly pleasures or desires, emblematic of the qualities of those with godlike endowments.[57]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) The practice of detachment from worldly desires and bonds, crucial for attaining spiritual fulfillment.[58] (2) The practice taken up by Utathya after feeling distraught over the ridicule of his illiteracy.[59]
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) Renunciation signifies the act of giving up or rejecting something, such as Karkati's abandonment of her fiendish disposition, which pleased the god of winds, according to the information.[60] (2) Renunciation is the act of giving up worldly attachments and desires, especially those rooted in the mind, to attain a state of peace and ultimate rest.[61]
From: Garuda Purana
(1) The practice of giving up worldly desires and attachments, viewed as a means to attain genuine knowledge.[62]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) This is an aspect used by Shri Advaita Acarya and Lord Shiva in explaining the devotional service of Lord Krishna, indicating detachment from worldly things.[63] (2) When Gaurasundara accepts the path of renunciation, His detachment for topics not related with the Lord is shown.[64] (3) This is a practice that is not as effective in bringing one closer to the Lord as unalloyed devotional service, which is the most powerful way to bring Him under the control of devotees.[65] (4) The act of relinquishing worldly attachments and desires in pursuit of spiritual ideals.[66] (5) The act of giving up worldly attachments and desires to focus on spiritual development.[67]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) Along with devotion and purity, it is the method of worshiping Krishna, the original Supreme Personality of Godhead.[68] (2) the act of giving up worldly ties or desires[69] (3) The act of relinquishing worldly possessions and desires for spiritual progress.[70] (4) The practice of giving up worldly attachments and desires to attain spiritual growth.[71] (5) The act of giving up or letting go of something, referenced as 'tyagam' in the Sanskrit text.[72]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) The act of giving up worldly attachments, which is seen as a subsidiary practice compared to bhakti.[73] (2) Virakta, a quality that involves detachment from material desires and sense gratification, which is facilitated by the grace of Mahalakshmi.[74] (3) the process of abandoning the false ego to achieve self-satisfaction.[75] (4) Vairagya, or renunciation, is the act of giving up worldly attachments; however, when not directed towards bhakti, it can hinder the sweet nectar of devotion.[76] (5) Vairagya, the state of giving up attachment to sense objects and desires.[77]
From: Bhajana-Rahasya
(1) The living entity is endeavouring to find relief from the threefold miseries sometimes through knowledge and renunciation and sometimes through knowledge of brahma.[78] (2) The act of giving up material desires and attachments to attain spiritual truth.[79] (3) The act of giving up worldly pleasures and desires in pursuit of spiritual goals, often discussed in the context of genuine devotion.[80] (4) Praised as vairagya, it is deemed ineffective if it does not result in attachment to the lotus feet of Shri Bhagavan.[81]
From: Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu
(1) The act of renouncing worldly pleasures and attachments, described as not being sufficient alone to bring one closer to the divine in this context.[82] (2) The act of giving up worldly attachments or desires, which is considered less effective for achieving the highest perfection in this context.[83]
From: Srila Gurudeva (The Supreme Treasure)
(1) The act of giving up worldly attachments, which is seen as useless if it does not lead to devotion towards Bhagavan.[84]
From: Chaitanya Mangala
(1) A significant quality within Vishvarupa's heart, indicating his desire to detach from worldly duties like marriage.[85]
From: Sri Krishna-Chaitanya
(1) A characteristic linked to the Lord’s capacity to withdraw from worldly attachments, emphasized in a later phase of His life.[86]
From: Vivekachudamani
(1) Detachment from worldly desires and possessions is renunciation, which is a crucial aspect of spiritual practice that enables one to focus on the pursuit of ultimate reality.[87] (2) It is the act of giving up all actions, especially those done with selfish motives. It is a necessary step towards attaining Liberation and purifying the intellect.[88] (3) This is an act that a man of dispassion is fit for, and it can be internal as well as external.[89] (4) The act of giving up the non-self is another important quality that is mentioned within the context of the provided text and is very important.[90]
From: Kaivalya Upanishad
(1) Acknowledging the unreality of creation, this is the practice through which the sage meditates to access the unmanifest Absolute Truth.[91]
From: Brihadaranyaka Upanishad
(1) The act of giving up worldly life and attachments, highlighted as crucial for achieving immortality.[92]
From: Ishavasya Upanishad with Shankara’s Commentary
(1) The act of giving up desires and attachment, particularly in the context of seeking material wealth or offspring.[93]
From: Prashna Upanishad with Shankara’s Commentary
(1) The act of giving up worldly possessions and desires to attain greater spiritual goals.[94]
From: Mandukya Upanishad (Gaudapa Karika and Shankara Bhashya)
(1) The practice of letting go of worldly attachments to attain a higher understanding and realization of ultimate reality.[95]
From: Brahma Sutras (Shankaracharya)
(1) This refers to the act of giving up worldly possessions and activities, and is closely associated with the state of being grounded in Brahman, and is practiced by the mendicant.[96]
From: Chandogya Upanishad (english Translation)
(1) This is tyaga and the text references that you are able to understand the real implication of this word when you see your teacher putting them into practice.[97]
From: Ashtavakra Gita
(1) It is the act of giving up everything, which is the only way to achieve happiness.[98]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad
(1) Renunciation is the best means to moksha, where one gives up dharma and adharma, striving for knowledge of the Inner Self, aligning with the teaching that renunciation is Brahman.[99]
From: Brahma Sutras (Ramanuja)
(1) This is of all enjoyment of fruits here below as well as in the next world. It is a prerequisite for the desire of knowledge to arise. Without this, the desire of knowledge cannot arise.[100]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) Renunciation is connected to meditation, and its rewards are attained when love and hatred are overcome by attributing everything to one’s actions.[101] (2) The text describes it as ‘the surrendering of the notions of I and mine’, and not the abandoning of all that is enjoined by the scriptures.[102] (3) The act of abandoning worldly possessions and the notion of ownership, allowing a person to dedicate themselves entirely to spiritual pursuits.[103] (4) Refers to the practice of giving up certain acts, dealt with under later discourse in the text.[104] (5) The act of giving up worldly interests or possessions, which can lead to a brother being deprived of his share.[105]
From: Tirukkural (Thirukkural)
(1) The act of relinquishing desires and attachments to attain higher spiritual states and the promise of liberation from suffering.[106]
From: Kamashastra Discourse (Life in Ancient India)
(1) A significant concept during the period of the formation of Kamasutra, viewed as an essential part of human life.[107]
From: History of Indian Medicine (and Ayurveda)
(1) The act of abandoning material possessions and desires to achieve a higher state of being.[108]
Jain concept of 'Renunciation'
In Jainism, Renunciation signifies relinquishing worldly desires and attachments. It's crucial for enlightenment, exemplified by Mahavira's asceticism and Arishtanemi's journey. Renunciation, also known as vyutsarga, involves external and internal aspects, influencing beings' nature and is a key topic in Jain teachings.
From: Bhagavati-sutra (Viyaha-pannatti)
(1) It is a state or characteristic that living beings can possess, or lack, and it is a key factor in determining their nature, behaviors, and categories within the classifications that are described within the text.[109] (2) The act of giving up something, as it is described by the text, can be categorized into various types and forms that are associated with specific actions and periods.[110] (3) This is one of the topics for Book Seven, indicating the act of rejecting something formerly enjoyed, often for religious or spiritual purposes.[111] (4) The practice of giving up worldly attachments or desires, which affects the life-span of living beings.[112]
From: Tattvartha Sutra (with commentary)
(1) Renunciation, also known as vyutsarga, involves the act of relinquishing attachments and is categorized into two distinct types, focusing on external and internal aspects.[113] (2) The act of rejecting or giving up worldly attachments, which is described as having two forms.[114]
From: Uttaradhyayana Sutra
(1) The act of giving up worldly attachments, particularly associated with Arishtanemi's spiritual journey.[115] (2) The act of giving up worldly pleasures and desires, which Citra perceives as difficult but essential for those seeking spiritual enlightenment.[116]
From: Kalpa-sutra (Lives of the Jinas)
(1) The significant moment in Mahavira's life when he decided to leave behind worldly possessions and embrace a life of asceticism.[117]
The concept of Renunciation in local and regional sources
Renunciation, as described, is the act of giving up worldly possessions, desires, and attachments. It's often linked to spiritual pursuits, liberation, and serving humanity. The concept is viewed as essential for spiritual growth, achieving freedom, and is a central ideal across various philosophies and religions.
From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda
(1) It is the means by which alone immortality is reached. It is the solution that has been held on to through good or evil fortune, and meant to be held on to till the end of time.[118] (2) Renunciation is described as being ironically looked down upon as madness and sin in the land of Bhagavan Shuka's birth, a statement about societal values.[119] (3) This is a quality displayed by individuals, exemplified by a former executive engineer who relinquished a significant position without hesitation, demonstrating a strong commitment.[120] (4) This spirit is not understood, nor are Sadhus or Sannyasins, by some individuals.[121] (5) It is something that the author was preaching, although he was enjoying the luxuries given to him. He considered himself a hypocrite for enjoying luxuries while preaching this concept.[122]
From: Triveni Journal
(1) It is not suffered by the individual, implying a lack of giving up possessions or desires, representing a state of detachment and non-attachment from material possessions and worldly desires.[123] (2) The act of giving up worldly possessions and pleasures, exemplified by Sundari discarding her wealth and fine robes to embrace a life of service.[124] (3) This is the eventual outcome in a Telugu poem, marking a transition from love to a higher spiritual path.[125] (4) Renunciation is a central theme, initially causing Sundari distress when Nanda embraces it, but later becoming a path for both of them as they dedicate themselves to serving humanity and spiritual growth.[126] (5) This is sacrifice in the spirit of Ahimsa, without taking life or destroying property, preventing desires from rising.[127]
The concept of Renunciation in scientific sources
Renunciation, in regional contexts, involves detaching from worldly desires and attractions. This detachment facilitates a deeper connection with the divine and spiritual realms, marking a shift in focus.
From: Religions Journal (MDPI)
(1) "Renunciation" is examined in relation to Buddhist nuns in Myanmar-Burma and women's practices during the Sasana Revival, highlighting its significance in religious life.[128] (2) Renunciation is viewed as turning away from the world and all it offers in order to connect to the divine.[129]