Significance of Trance
Synonyms: Ecstasy, Daze, Stupor, Reverie, Trance state, Dream state, Hypnosis, Rapture, Enchantment, Dream, Spell
In Dutch: Trance; In German: Trance; In Finnish: Trance; In Spanish: Trance
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Trance'
In Buddhism, Trance is interpreted as a focused meditative state, characterized by concentrated mindfulness, which facilitates profound joy, alleviates mental suffering, and enables transformative experiences for practitioners, as exemplified by Bhaddaji's state of meditation.
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) Trance, along with other perfections, is maintained by the spirit of the prajnaparamita, signifying the integral role of wisdom in supporting all aspects of spiritual practice.[1] (2) Trances, along with absorptions, are a method of concentrating the mind, and they are collectively referred to as concentration, or samadhi, which is the 'sphere of action of right thought'.[2] (3) Trance is a dharma that has the concentration of the mind as its characteristic.[3] (4) A meditative state in which a practitioner can perform remarkable transformations.[4] (5) Deep meditative states that allow an individual to experience joy and happiness, countering mental suffering.[5]
From: The Perfection Of Wisdom In Eight Thousand Lines
(1) It involves detaching from sensory experiences with aversion, developing extraordinary knowledge and profound states of focused concentration, and advancing spiritual capabilities.[6]
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) It is a state (jhana) that Venerable Revata was fond of entering, enjoying the bliss of emancipation, and was foremost for his quick transition into it.[7]
From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) A state of focused meditation that Bhaddaji entered, waiting for the Master to arrive before rising.[8]
Hindu concept of 'Trance'
In Hinduism, Trance signifies a profound meditative state allowing transcendental experiences, heightened awareness, and emotional depth. It culminates in Samadhi, representing ultimate realization through focused connection with Ishvara in one’s actions.
From: Yoga-sutras (with Vyasa and Vachaspati Mishra)
(1) Trance, together with concentration and meditation, constitutes Samyama, and performing Samyama over the three-fold change brings forth knowledge of past and future.[9] (2) Trance is described as a component of intense energy that, along with purificatory action and mantra repetition, supports the vehicle of good actions.[10] (3) Trance is identified as the third of the three intimate means, which are considered more closely related to the ultimate objective.[11] (4) The trance, specifically referred to as the Cloud of Virtue, is attained through constant discrimination and a lack of interest in even the Highest Intellection.[12] (5) Trance is the immediate effect of conscious habituating volition and is considered the chief aspect of Samyama, even though Samyama encompasses concentration and meditation as well.[13]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) Trance is a state of deep meditation in which perfected yogis fix their minds to see the Supreme Personality of Godhead within.[14] (2) A trance is an altered state of consciousness, characterized by a detachment from one's surroundings and a heightened focus on internal thoughts or experiences.[15]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) An altered state of consciousness, often characterized by reduced responsiveness to external stimuli and heightened internal focus.[16]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) Trance refers to the state of deep absorption, also known as samadhi, that Shri Gopa-kumara entered after being touched by Sanaka and his brothers, leading to profound spiritual experiences.[17]
From: Tiruvaymoli (Thiruvaimozhi): English translation
(1) A state of fainting or deep emotional experience spurred by recalling past unions.[18]
From: Laghu-yoga-vasistha
(1) Rudra traced his way to the former Sannyasi and awakened him from this state.[19]
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) The trance is a state of deep meditation from which Vasishtha awakens to hear a soft sound and perceive endless worlds.[20] (2) The final stage of Yoga, or Samadhi, characterized by deep absorption in meditation.[21]
From: Mandukya Upanishad (Gaudapa Karika and Shankara Bhashya)
(1) In this state, along with deep sleep, the mind does not function, and consequently, no duality can be perceived.[22]
From: Thirty minor Upanishads
(1) A specialized altered state of consciousness that can occur during deep meditation or spiritual absorption.[23]
Jain concept of 'Trance'
In Jainism, Trance is viewed as a profound meditative state achieved by the thirty-three followers prior to their passing, emphasizing deep concentration that facilitates spiritual enlightenment and detachment from worldly existence.
From: Bhagavati-sutra (Viyaha-pannatti)
(1) A state of deep concentration or meditation that the thirty-three followers entered before passing away.[24]
The concept of Trance in local and regional sources
Trance, as defined by regional sources, is something Swami Shankaracharya claims he hasn't learned, emphasizing his sole reliance on Bhavani for salvation. This suggests Trance is a state or knowledge distinct from his spiritual path.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) People can enter a trance, often during devotional activities, which may enable them to foresee things clearly, a state possibly linked to brain chemistry changes.[25] (2) A state of altered consciousness experienced by the poet, characterized by frenzy and deep absorption in the creative moment.[26] (3) Trance is stated by Swami Shankaracharya as something he has not learned, highlighting his exclusive reliance on Bhavani for salvation.[27]
The concept of Trance in scientific sources
Trance, in regional contexts, links to shamanism. It denotes a state where individuals transcend human limitations to explore divine realms.
From: Religions Journal (MDPI)
(1) "Trance" is a state associated with shamanism, allowing individuals to break free from human-scapes and wander within the realms of the divine.[28]