Significance of Self-destruction
Self-destruction encompasses various interpretations across different philosophies and traditions. In Buddhism, it represents despair faced by the prince. Jainism identifies it with self-induced demise, while Vaishnavism views it as distanced attempts from the Supreme God. The Purana indicates destructive actions stemming from envy and moral disregard, while Vedanta warns of self-harm against knowledgeable beings. Mahayana emphasizes liberation from the false self to avoid suffering. Ultimately, self-destruction signifies acts leading to one's own downfall, guided by ignorance or misguided desires.
Synonyms: Self-inflicted harm, Self-harm, Self-abasement, Suicide
In Dutch: Zelfvernietiging; In Finnish: Itsetuho; In Spanish: Autodestrucción; In German: Selbstzerstörung; In Malay: Kemusnahan diri; In Swedish: Självförstörelse; In French: Autodestruction
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Self-destruction'
In Buddhism, self-destruction encompasses the inherent suffering of life, consequences of harmful desires, intentional harm, and attachment to false self, ultimately leading to personal ruin and despair, illustrated through various characters' foolish actions.
From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) The act of causing harm to oneself due to overwhelming desires, a central theme entangled in the king's decision-making.[1] (2) The concept illustrated through characters in the tale who faced dire consequences due to their own foolish actions or words.[2]
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) The outcome for individuals who, influenced by ignorance and harmful views, obstruct virtuous teachings, leading to their own ruin.[3] (2) The act of damaging one's own well-being or fate, often as a result of greed or foolishness.[4]
From: Vinaya (1): The Patimokkha
(1) The act of intentionally causing harm or ending one's own life, which is addressed in the teachings regarding conduct for Bhikkhus.[5]
From: Patipada (path of practice)
(1) The consequences of pursuing harmful desires and behaviors that ultimately lead to one's own downfall, akin to the behavior of animals like monkeys.[6]
From: The Fo-Sho-Hing-Tsan-King (A Life of Buddha)
(1) The ultimate despair that the prince fears might arise if he is not allowed to seek the truth and escape the worldly life.[7]
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) The process through which attachment to a false sense of self leads to suffering; recognizing there is no inherent self liberates one from such suffering.[8]
Hindu concept of 'Self-destruction'
In Hinduism, self-destruction encompasses physical and emotional harm to oneself, the voluntary choice of death, and consequences of violating moral codes. It highlights misguided desires that lead to downfall and emphasizes adherence to divine principles.
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) The act of harming oneself physically or morally, often by associating with negative influences.[9] (2) The negative consequences that arise from ignoring the Vedas and moral principles.[10] (3) Svaha indicates a willingness to commit self-destruction if Agni does not agree to her request, emphasizing the depth of her love.[11] (4) Acts that lead to one’s own demise or downfall, particularly when against prescribed duties.[12] (5) The act of causing one's own death, discussed in the context of the Bhrigus' refusal to engage in such acts despite their weariness of life.[13]
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) The tendency of the mind to lead itself into ruin through its own misguided desires and actions.[14]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Shastri)
(1) The act of causing one’s own downfall or demise, emphasized as a potential fate for the king if he follows misguided advice.[15]
From: Harivamsha Purana
(1) Nikumbha's desire that drives him to execute his plans, hinting at his inner turmoil.[16]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) The destructive consequence of attempting to separate from the Supreme Personality of Godhead.[17]
From: Tiruvaymoli (Thiruvaimozhi): English translation
(1) The consequence faced by those who disregard divine protection and pursue harmful desires.[18]
From: Chandogya Upanishad (english Translation)
(1) The consequence faced by someone attempting to harm a knowledgeable individual, resulting in their own harm.[19]
Jain concept of 'Self-destruction'
In Jainism, self-destruction signifies the name-karma, representing self-induced dissolution or demise. It reflects the belief in personal responsibility for one’s actions and their consequences, impacting spiritual growth and karmic karma.
From: Tattvartha Sutra (with commentary)
(1) The name-karma indicating self-induced forms of dissolution or demise.[20]
The concept of Self-destruction in local and regional sources
Self-destruction encompasses self-harmful behaviors and choices that result in personal damage or demise, often stemming from deep-seated hate or negative emotions, ultimately leading individuals toward their own downfall.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) The outcome of actions driven by hate, leading to one's own demise.[21] (2) The act of causing harm or destruction to oneself, particularly through harmful behaviors or choices.[22]