Significance of Supreme consciousness
The concept of Supreme consciousness in Vaishnavism and other spiritual traditions represents the ultimate state of awareness and divine realization. It contrasts with the fragmented consciousness of individual beings who often fail to perceive this higher awareness due to their material desires. Supreme consciousness is associated with divinity, transcending ordinary awareness, and signifies the culmination of spiritual practice, where one understands their identity with the Supreme Soul. It is regarded as the source of all existence and a key aspect of various paths to understanding the divine.
Synonyms: Higher awareness, Elevated consciousness, Supreme awareness, Cosmic consciousness, Universal consciousness, Universal awareness, Divine mind, Ultimate reality, Higher consciousness
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Supreme consciousness'
Supreme consciousness in Hinduism signifies the ultimate reality and awareness realized through Yoga practice. It embodies divine awareness, transcends ordinary consciousness, and represents unity with the Supreme Soul, leading to spiritual liberation and connection to the divine.
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) Refers to the ultimate reality and knowledge represented by the Devi, showcasing her as a source of liberation.[1] (2) The ultimate awareness or existence that one seeks to realize through the practice of Yoga.[2] (3) Refers to the ultimate reality and awareness that transcends ordinary consciousness, embodying the Devi's nature.[3]
From: Skanda Purana
(1) The ultimate awareness and knowledge, associated with Krishna's divine nature.[4] (2) The ultimate awareness associated with the divine, indicating a state of transcendence.[5]
From: Bhagavata Purana
(1) The state of realization in which one understands the soul to be identical with the Supreme Soul, marking the culmination of spiritual practice.[6]
From: Linga Purana
(1) The state experienced in samadhi where one is concentrated solely on spiritual realization.[7]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) The state of divine awareness attributed to the Lord, contrasting with the fragmental nature of individual living entities.[8] (2) This phrase describes Lord Vishnu, who is recognized as the ultimate authority and controller of all beings.[9] (3) Living entities do not see the portions of the supreme consciousness that are covered by their propensity to enjoy.[10] (4) The ultimate awareness embodied by Shri Caitanyadeva, distinguishing him from ordinary beings with limited consciousness.[11]
From: Shakti and Shakta
(1) The ultimate source of all Consciousness, encompassing both subjective experience and objective reality.[12] (2) The Supreme Consciousness represents the ultimate reality or truth within the framework of Advaita, recognized as undifferentiated and absolute.[13]
From: Varahi Tantra (English Study)
(1) The ultimate state of awareness where the mind becomes absorbed, leading to the detachment of actions from merit or sin.[14]
From: Yoga-sutras (Ancient and Modern Interpretations)
(1) The highest form of awareness, often concealed by the distractions of thought and perceptual distortions represented by cittavrittis.[15] (2) The highest form of awareness that remains unchanged and alone when gunas are inactive.[16]
From: Gitartha Samgraha (critical Study)
(1) The ultimate state of awareness and realization of divine truth, sought in Abhinavagupta's writings.[17] (2) The all-encompassing awareness that is sought through spiritual disciplines, connecting the seeker to the divine.[18]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad Bhashya Vartika
(1) The highest state of awareness, referred to as caitanya-abhasa, that the Self truly embodies.[19]
The concept of Supreme consciousness in local and regional sources
Supreme consciousness denotes the highest spiritual awareness, linking individuals to the divine. It embodies omnipotence, omniscience, and omnipresence, transcending ordinary cognition to connect with the ultimate source of existence.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) The state of profound awareness and joy found in the inner realization of one's personal deity.[20] (2) The ultimate reality or truth that lies beyond the physical existence and is perceived through inward reflection and devotion within Buddhist philosophy.[21] (3) A heightened state of awareness and understanding that transcends ordinary mental states, reaching into the divine.[22] (4) The ultimate awareness or presence that is omnipotent, omniscient, and omnipresent, representing the source of all existence.[23]
From: Lord Jhulelal: An Analytical Study
(1) The highest state of awareness or connection with the divine through spiritual practices and rituals.[24]