Significance of Restless mind
In Vaishnavism, the restless mind encompasses various states of agitation and unease driven by desires such as greed, lust, and anger. It signifies a mental turmoil that hinders peace, making it challenging for individuals to achieve spiritual growth. The concept also includes a yearning for connections, as exemplified by Shri Radha's longing for Krishna. Meanwhile, in the context of Purana and Vedanta, the restless mind remains occupied with distractions and desires, complicating one's path to liberation and self-realization. Overall, the restless mind represents a significant barrier to inner tranquility and spiritual progress.
Synonyms: Uneasy mind, Restless spirit, Agitated thoughts, Troubled mind, Anxious mind, Unsettled mind, Turbulent thoughts., Agitated mind
In Dutch: Rusteloze geest
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Restless mind'
In Hinduism, a "Restless mind" represents a state of agitation and distraction due to unfulfilled desires, hindering spiritual growth and peace. It reflects continual turmoil, impeding realization of the Self and causing delusion in life's journey.
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) An unsettled state of thought characterized by constant distractions and unfulfilled desires, impeding spiritual growth.[1] (2) A state of mental agitation resulting from ignorance, causing worries and distractions in one's life.[2] (3) Describes the ceaseless state of the mind occupied with desires, leading to internal conflict and dissatisfaction.[3] (4) The unsettled state of consciousness that generates desire and distracts from liberation.[4] (5) The continuous agitation and unsteady nature of the minds of young individuals.[5]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) The natural state of Jivas (living beings) which causes various passions such as lust and anger.[6] (2) A mental state experienced by Vyasa Deva that prevents him from exercising self-control and leads to indulgent thoughts.[7]
From: Bhajana-Rahasya
(1) The state of eagerness and agitation that Shri Radha experiences as She yearns to meet with her beloved Krishna.[8] (2) A state of mind troubled or disturbed by desires such as lust, anger, and greed, making it difficult to achieve peace through yogic practices alone.[9] (3) A mental state characterized by agitation and lack of focus, often resulting from improper satisfaction of desires.[10]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) A state of turmoil and agitation in the consciousness of an individual, often resulting from greed for worldly objects.[11] (2) A state of mind characterized by a lack of peace or tranquility, leading to constant movement or travel.[12]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) describes the instability and distractions of the mind that hinder remembrance[13] (2) The state of unease and uncertainty experienced by Gopa-kumara, which is addressed in his reflections on Vaikuntha.[14]
From: Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu
(1) Refers to the mental state of the speaker who no longer finds joy in the impersonal Brahman due to a past experience.[15]
From: Chandogya Upanishad (english Translation)
(1) A mind that is constantly distracted and attached to sense pleasures, making it difficult to realize the Self.[16]
From: Yoga-sutras (Ancient and Modern Interpretations)
(1) A description from the Bhagavadgita emphasizing the challenging nature of controlling the mind.[17]
The concept of Restless mind in local and regional sources
"Restless minds" signifies a state of mental agitation and unease, reflecting a deep yearning for peace and solitude, leading individuals to seek serene environments free from distractions and anxiety.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) A state of mental unease and yearning for peace and solitude, prompting the speaker to seek a serene haven away from distractions.[18] (2) Characterizes a state of mental unease or agitation, often associated with anxiety or an inability to find peace.[19]