Significance of States of being
States of being, as described in various philosophical traditions, encompass a range of conditions or phases of existence. In Tibetan Buddhism, it highlights the different temporal categories and transitions of entities across past, present, and future. Vaishnavism presents stages like wakefulness, dream, and sleep, while Purana emphasizes experiences of the mind through these various conditions. Vedanta examines levels of existence post-death and phases of life, ultimately framing consciousness through waking, dreaming, and deep sleep. Each tradition contributes to a richer understanding of states of being.
In Dutch: Staten van zijn; In German: Seinszustände; In Finnish: Olemisen tilat; In Spanish: Estados del ser
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'States of being'
In Buddhism, States of being encompass various realms of existence influenced by suffering, acknowledging conditions of existence, engaging with impermanence and no-self, and recognizing transitions through past, present, and future phases.
From: Tattvasangraha [with commentary]
(1) Different conditions or phases, such as past, present, and future, through which an entity may transition.[1] (2) The conditions or forms of existence that are acknowledged by Buddhist teachings, which may include the traditional temporal categories.[2]
From: Lotus Sutra
(1) The different realms of existence that sentient beings may inhabit, often associated with various degrees of suffering.[3]
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) The various aspects of existence or reality that one can engage with; these states are to be understood in relation to the concepts of impermanence, suffering, and no-self.[4]
Hindu concept of 'States of being'
In Hinduism, States of being encompass various conditions of existence, including waking, dreaming, and deep sleep, as well as stages of life and spiritual development, reflecting the complexity of consciousness and the nature of the Atman.
From: Chandogya Upanishad (english Translation)
(1) Different levels of existence after death, as outlined in Vedanta, including Brahmaloka and Svargaloka among others.[5]
From: Brihadaranyaka Upanishad
(1) Various conditions of existence, namely wakefulness, dreaming, and deep sleep, through which the self experiences reality differently and learns about its true nature.[6]
From: Mandukya Upanishad
(1) Different levels or forms of existence, encompassing physical, mental, and spiritual experiences.[7]
From: Kaivalya Upanishad
(1) Different conditions of existence identified as waking state, dream state, or deep sleep, which serve for explanatory purposes in understanding consciousness.[8]
From: Vivekachudamani
(1) Encompasses different phases of life, such as boyhood and youth, which are temporary and do not reflect the eternal nature of the Atman.[9]
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) The various conditions of the mind and intellect as they experience waking, sleeping, dreaming, and realization of unity with truth.[10] (2) Various conditions or realities that consciousness and existence can inhabit, such as waking, dreaming, and profound sleep.[11]
From: Bhagavata Purana
(1) The various phases of life and spiritual development, including the householder, Vanaprastha, and sannyasa stages.[12]
From: Vakyapadiya of Bhartrihari
(1) The classifications of existence that can collectively be understood through the notions of birth and death.[13] (2) Describes the conditions or phases that Being can assume; it is not distinct from the essence of Being itself.[14]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) Different conditions or stages of existence, such as wakefulness, dream, and sleep.[15] (2) The various conditions or modes of existence that relate to consciousness and the experiences of life.[16]
The concept of States of being in local and regional sources
"States of being" denotes various emotional and psychological conditions that individuals experience. This concept illustrates how people navigate and express diverse modes of existence, reflecting their inner emotional landscapes and personal realities.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) Different conditions or modes of existence that express the emotional and psychological experiences of individuals.[17]