Significance of Solitary places
In various spiritual traditions, the concept of a "Solitary place" emphasizes the importance of isolation and tranquility for meditation and self-reflection. In Buddhism and Jainism, these settings provide the necessary peace to practice mindfulness and asceticism away from distractions. Similarly, in Vaishnavism, these secluded locations facilitate intimate spiritual experiences and personal connections with the divine. Overall, a Solitary place represents an essential environment for spiritual growth, contemplation, and deeper insights across multiple philosophies.
Synonyms: Isolation, Quiet spot, Desolate place, Hidden place, Remote area, Secluded spot, Lonely place
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Solitary places'
In Buddhism, a "Solitary place" signifies quiet, isolated environments ideal for meditation and contemplation. These settings, free from distractions and crowds, foster spiritual practice and reflection, crucial for achieving samadhi and inner peace.
From: The Great Chariot
(1) Areas free from human presence, regarded as beneficial for meditation and achieving a peaceful state of mind.[1] (2) Areas that are isolated and lack the presence of cities and crowds, fostering an environment conducive to establishing samadhi.[2] (3) A setting free from disturbances of people and occupations, providing an environment conducive to meditation.[3] (4) A remote and undisturbed environment, such as a forest, where individuals can retreat to practice mindfulness and meditation without distractions.[4]
From: Blue Annals (deb-ther sngon-po)
(1) Referring to the remote and quiet locations favored by Gampopa and his disciples for meditation and retreat.[5] (2) A private area Zhan Ston desired to retreat to for spiritual practices, emphasizing the importance of solitude in meditation.[6] (3) Phag mo gru pa's preference for residing away from villages for greater independence and peace.[7]
From: Maha Buddhavamsa—The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) A remote or isolated environment where the Venerable Sariputta lived, indicating a choice for reflection and spiritual practice.[8]
From: Milindapanha (questions of King Milinda)
(1) Quiet environments where the Bhikshu can retreat for contemplation, akin to the solitude preferred by the panther.[9]
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) Locations favored by the Buddhas, where they can meditate without distraction from others.[10]
Hindu concept of 'Solitary places'
In Hinduism, a "solitary place" signifies secluded environments ideal for meditation, reflection, and spiritual growth. These locations foster intimacy and distraction-free worship, crucial for personal retreat and deep connection with the Divine.
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) A location where Nityananda is seen alone by Madhai, emphasizing the personal and intimate nature of the encounter.[11] (2) A location that is isolated or quiet, away from the presence of others, where individuals can reflect or contemplate.[12] (3) A secluded or quiet location where the Lord chose to meditate.[13] (4) The private space where Shriman Mahaprabhu communicated his intentions to Nityananda regarding taking sannyasa.[14] (5) The location where Lord Nityananda went to be alone and reflect on his feelings.[15]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) A quiet environment; a space free from disturbances where one can engage in spiritual practice.[16] (2) A secluded environment where one can chant and meditate without distractions.[17] (3) A secluded location where the Lord would go, leading to the absence of His sight for residents.[18] (4) a solitary location chosen for chanting the mantra[19] (5) A private location chosen for the purpose of chanting without the presence of others.[20]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) A private and secluded area, emphasizing tranquility and isolation, where Krishna is found.[21] (2) This term describes a secluded or private setting where Lalita interacts with Radha, suggesting intimacy and confidentiality.[22]
From: Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu
(1) A secluded environment where private interactions and expressions of affection can occur without interruption.[23] (2) Living in a solitary place is highlighted as one of the unique stimuli for shanta-rasa.[24]
From: Bhajana-Rahasya
(1) A secluded area where Shri Krishna interacted with the gopis, underlining the intimacy and sacredness of their relationship.[25]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) An isolated environment sought by Vyasa, representing a space for reflection and contemplation amidst his dilemmas.[26] (2) A secluded environment chosen for deep worship and spiritual practices to facilitate connection with the Divine.[27] (3) Refers to the location Vidura chose for his meditation and dispassion away from society.[28]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki
(1) An isolated location from which Ravana and Marica commence their journey.[29] (2) Remote and uninhabited areas where the searching monkeys did not find any signs of Maithili or her abductor.[30]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) A secluded location where Duryodhana was hiding, emphasizing his isolation.[31]
From: Bhagavata Purana
(1) A secluded area where a yogin or sage can focus on meditation and spiritual practice without distractions.[32]
From: Skanda Purana
(1) A secluded location on Meru where the sage practiced deep meditation.[33]
From: Shiva Purana
(1) Locations that are remote or serene where a mendicant can meditate in solitude, contributing to spiritual practice.[34]
From: Padma Purana
(1) An environment devoid of distractions, fostering an atmosphere for spiritual growth and realization of knowledge.[35]
From: Lalitopakhyana (Lalita Mahatmya)
(1) A private setting where Bhanda convened with his brothers to strategize about the battle.[36]
From: Gautami Mahatmya
(1) The location where Nageshvara, the serpent, resided away from people.[37]
From: Sahitya-kaumudi by Baladeva Vidyabhushana
(1) A context or setting (desha) that is isolated, potentially impacting the suggestiveness of a statement.[38] (2) A location characterized by absence of others, implying intimacy and exclusivity in the relationship or encounter described.[39] (3) Refers to a setting in which the characters are alone, contributing to the context of frustration and emotional complexity.[40] (4) A secret or private meeting space suggested in the text for a more intimate interaction.[41]
From: Thirty minor Upanishads
(1) A state of living with one thought alone, essential for spiritual growth.[42] (2) A quiet, undisturbed environment preferred for spiritual practices and contemplation.[43]
From: Chandogya Upanishad (english Translation)
(1) Locations that are secluded, suggesting they are ideal for brahmins like Raikva.[44]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) Remote environments chosen for the purpose of meditation and spiritual retreat.[45] (2) A location devoid of people and distractions, deemed suitable for holding private and important consultations.[46]
From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)
(1) An isolated setting that heightens the strangeness of the woman's actions, where she prepares food while experiencing extreme emotions.[47]
From: Varahi Tantra (English Study)
(1) A quiet setting used for worship and study, where distractions are minimized to focus on spiritual learning.[48]
Jain concept of 'Solitary places'
In Jainism, a "solitary place" signifies a remote area for ascetic practice, enabling focused spirituality away from distractions, and also represents a punitive location for individuals facing consequences, enhancing contemplation and self-discipline.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) An isolated or remote location where one can practice asceticism away from distractions.[49] (2) The location where the chamberlain was taken for punishment, away from others, as a consequence of his actions.[50]