Significance of Self-surrender
Self-surrender in Hinduism and its various branches signifies the profound commitment of an individual to relinquish personal ego and desires, fully dedicating oneself to the divine. This act of complete submission is characterized by dependence on God and the acceptance of guidance from a spiritual master. Across traditions like Vaishnavism, Vedanta, and Shaivism, self-surrender emphasizes the importance of yielding to higher power for spiritual progress, with ideals such as devotion, protection, and the merging of personal will with divine will being central themes.
Synonyms: Self-abandonment, Submission, Letting go, Self-sacrifice, Resignation, Surrendering oneself, Self-renunciation
In Dutch: Zelfovergave; In Finnish: Itsensä luovuttaminen; In Spanish: Entrega de uno mismo
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-surrender'
Self-surrender in Buddhism involves relinquishing personal desires and attachments to one’s body, demonstrating dedication to the Buddha. This selflessness is considered crucial for achieving spiritual growth and enlightenment within the Buddhist path.
From: Maha Buddhavamsa—The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) The act of relinquishing one’s own body and desires in dedication to the Buddha, viewed as essential for spiritual progress.[1]
Hindu concept of 'Self-surrender'
Self-surrender in Hinduism involves offering oneself to the divine, relinquishing ego, and fully dedicating actions to the Supreme without seeking personal gain, aiming for spiritual liberation and higher connection through devotion and service.
From: Bhajana-Rahasya
(1) Full submission to the divine, characterized by relinquishing personal identification and desires.[2] (2) The act of fully giving oneself to Krishna, recognizing one's dependence on the divine and acting in surrender.[3]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) The act of wholly giving oneself to the guidance and service of the spiritual master and the Supreme Lord.[4]
From: Haribhakti-sudhodaya
(1) The act of completely dedicating oneself and one's actions to the service of the Supreme God for spiritual liberation.[5]
From: Tiruvaymoli (Thiruvaimozhi): English translation
(1) The act of offering oneself completely to the Lord, acknowledging that one's soul and existence truly belong to Him.[6]
From: Sivaprakasam (Study in Bondage and Liberation)
(1) The act of yielding oneself completely to the Divine, allowing one to transcend worldly attachments and egoism.[7]
From: Tiruvacakam Part I
(1) The act of fully accepting the ascetic life and placing oneself in the service of the Supreme, without seeking personal bliss.[8]
From: Siddhanta Sangraha of Sri Sailacharya
(1) Prapatti, which involves a prayerful yielding of oneself to a higher power for protection and guidance.[9]
From: Mandukya Upanishad
(1) The act of relinquishing personal ego and false identities in order to attain a higher spiritual state.[10]
From: Linga Purana
(1) The dedication and offering of oneself to the divine, often emphasized within the practices of worship.[11]
From: Vakyapadiya of Bhartrihari
(1) Self-surrender is an inclination to render service, indicating a willingness to assist without expectation.[12]
From: Satapatha-brahmana
(1) A critical declaration made by the Sacrificer to ensure that Agni does not take possession of his breath.[13]
The concept of Self-surrender in local and regional sources
Self-surrender encompasses relinquishing personal desires to embrace divine will, manifesting in various spiritual traditions. It signifies trust, acceptance of one's fate, and devotion, as seen in Sufi practices, Rao's narratives, and the teachings of Nammalvar and Radha.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) The act of yielding one's own desires and will, to be guided by the divine will.[14] (2) The act of yielding oneself completely, as illustrated in the metaphor of a kitten and its mother cat in Rao's narratives.[15] (3) The concept of relinquishing absolute control or dominance in favor of collaborative efforts for world peace and stability.[16] (4) The act of relinquishing individual desires and aspirations to embrace God's will wholly.[17] (5) The philosophical acceptance of one's fate and the world around, viewed as essential for metaphysical identification.[18]
From: Lord Jhulelal: An Analytical Study
(1) The act of yielding oneself completely to God's will, a significant aspect of the Sufi path known as Tawakkul.[19]