Significance of Short life
The concept of Short life in various philosophical contexts highlights limited life spans due to specific circumstances and actions. In Buddhism, it refers to a concise historical account of Buddha's life, while in Purana, it indicates that Satyavan’s death is foretold despite his virtues. Dharmashastra views Short life as a limited duration of existence, and Mahayana associates it with moral failings, particularly harming others. Theravada emphasizes the fleeting nature of human existence, reinforcing the idea of a brief lifespan.
Synonyms: Fleeting life, Transitory life, Momentary existence, Temporary existence, Transient life, Momentary life
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Short life'
In Buddhism, the concept of "Short life" signifies both the brief lifespan associated with immoral actions and the transient nature of existence, emphasizing how negative actions lead to limited longevity compared to the eternal lives of enlightened beings.
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) A life-span that is limited or brief, contrasting with the long life of the buddhas, often influenced by their circumstances.[1] (2) A consequence resulting from actions that harm living beings, leading to a life without longevity.[2] (3) A brief lifespan commonly associated with those who commit murder and lack moral scruples.[3] (4) A condition described concerning people under the Buddha Shakyamuni, indicating a tendency toward a lesser lifespan (alpayusha).[4]
From: Guide to Tipitaka
(1) The transient and fleeting nature of human existence, emphasized through various metaphors likening it to ephemeral phenomena.[5]
From: The Fo-Sho-Hing-Tsan-King (A Life of Buddha)
(1) A concise historical narrative of Buddha's life that encompasses essential events without extensive detail.[6]
Hindu concept of 'Short life'
In Hinduism, "Short life" highlights the inevitability of an early death, as seen in Satyavan's fate, despite his virtues, and suggests a broader concept of life being defined by limited duration or consequences of negative actions.
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) A life span characterized by brief duration, often resulting from negative actions.[7] (2) A significant detail indicating that Satyavan will die within a year, overshadowing his many virtues.[8]
From: Skanda Purana
(1) The prophecy stating that the boy is destined to die young, despite the blessings he received.[9]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) The duration of existence, indicating a limited span or time.[10]
From: Yoga-sutras (Vedanta Commentaries)
(1) Another effect of karma, suggesting a brief existence as a result of the interaction between causes and tendencies.[11]
The concept of Short life in local and regional sources
The keyphrase "Short life" emphasizes the fleeting nature of human existence, highlighting the importance of values to provide direction and meaning in our lives despite their brevity.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) Short life refers to the transient nature of human existence, emphasizing the need for values to give it direction and meaning.[12]