Significance of Restlessness
Restlessness is a multifaceted mental state recognized across various philosophical and scientific perspectives. In Jainism, it stems from unwholesome actions and impacts one's experience. Vaishnavism describes it as a state of unease, particularly highlighted by Gopa-kumara's feelings of separation from the Lord. Theravada identifies it as a lack of calm and a distraction from wholesome activities, while historical contexts illustrate individual experiences of inner turmoil. In science, restlessness manifests as a symptom of anxiety or a side effect of certain medications, reflecting its pervasive nature across disciplines.
Synonyms: Uneasiness, Agitation, Impatience, Anxiety, Turmoil, Disquiet, Nervousness
In Dutch: Rusteloosheid; In Finnish: Levottomuus; In Spanish: Inquietud; In German: Unruhe; In Swedish: Rastlöshet; In Malay: Kegelisahan
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Restlessness'
In Buddhism, Restlessness is viewed as mental agitation stemming from worldly ties, marked by distraction and anxiety that hinder mindfulness and moral actions, ultimately preventing calmness and focus on wholesome practices.
From: A Manual of Abhidhamma
(1) A state of agitation or distraction, identified as uddhacca.[1] (2) A state of being unable to relax or remain still, often driven by anxiety or agitation.[2] (3) A state of agitation and inability to remain calm or composed, often resulting in immoral actions.[3]
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) A form of agitation or inability to maintain mental focus, which distracts from the practice of mindfulness.[4] (2) A form of mental agitation that arises from being tied to worldly concerns.[5]
From: Abhidhamma in Daily Life
(1) A mental state characterized by a lack of calm and distraction from wholesome activities.[6]
From: Cetasikas
(1) A mental state characterized by agitation or distraction, preventing stable mind and focus on wholesome actions.[7]
Hindu concept of 'Restlessness'
In Hinduism, Restlessness signifies a state of unease and agitation, exemplified by Gopa-kumara's distress from separation from the Lord, disrupting one's focus and inner peace.
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) A state of unease or agitation that disrupts focus and peace of mind.[8] (2) The feeling of unease and agitation that Gopa-kumara experienced, intensifying due to his separation from the Lord.[9]
Jain concept of 'Restlessness'
In Jainism, Restlessness denotes a mental condition arising from negative actions, contributing to a heavier experience for the souls. It emphasizes the need for ethical behavior to achieve inner peace and spiritual harmony.
From: Bhagavati-sutra (Viyaha-pannatti)
(1) A mental state stemming from unwholesome actions that adds weight to the living being's experience.[10]
The concept of Restlessness in local and regional sources
Restlessness denotes an inner agitation causing individuals like Visoba, Ranga Rao, and Okonkwo to struggle with peace, sleep, and adherence to traditional beliefs, revealing a deeper anxiety associated with unresolved obligations and societal change.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) The inner turmoil experienced by Okonkwo as he grapples with changes to his traditional beliefs and societal values after colonial influences.[11] (2) A state of being unable to relax or be still, often associated with anxiety.[12] (3) The feeling experienced by Ranga Rao when left alone at home, leading him to struggle with sleep and concentration.[13]
From: Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints
(1) An inner agitation or inability to find peace, experienced by Visoba due to his pending obligation to repay the creditor.[14]