Significance of Ultimate reality
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Synonyms: Supreme reality, Absolute reality, Ultimate truth, Fundamental reality, Highest reality, Metaphysical reality, Absolute truth, Final reality
In Dutch: Ultieme realiteit; In Finnish: Lopullinen todellisuus; In Spanish: Realidad última
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Ultimate reality'
Ultimate reality in Buddhism encompasses the profound truths revealed through Insight Meditation, emphasizing impermanence, emptiness (shunyata), and the interconnectedness of all phenomena, ultimately guiding practitioners towards enlightenment and the attainment of Nibbana.
From: Maha Buddhavamsa—The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) The highest truth or state of existence, referring specifically to Nibbana in the context of Buddhist teachings.[1] (2) The concept referring to Nibbana that the Bodhisatta aspires to achieve, indicating the profound spiritual journey beyond worldly concerns.[2]
From: Introducing Buddhist Abhidhamma
(1) The fundamental truth that forms the background of Insight Meditation, providing a deep understanding necessary for achieving nirvana.[3] (2) Encompasses only physical and mental phenomena that arise and cease; does not include a permanent self.[4]
From: A Manual of Abhidhamma
(1) Nibbana is recognized as an ultimate reality, or vatthu-dhamma, beyond the physical and psychological aggregates.[5] (2) Abstract truth (paramattha-sacca) as opposed to apparent reality, which is ordinary conventional truth.[6]
From: Patthana Dhamma
(1) A fundamental truth that is always applicable and unchanging across all contexts and times.[7]
From: A Discourse on Paticcasamuppada
(1) A deeper understanding of existence that transcends mere appearances and conventional identifications.[8]
From: Guide to Tipitaka
(1) The concept used in Abhidhamma to analyze phenomena, treating the Dhamma without concessions to conventional terms and focusing on the essence of existence.[9]
From: Cetasikas
(1) The term 'dhamma' can refer to various meanings, including teachings and paramattha dhamma, which are ultimate realities.[10]
From: Mahayana Mahaparinirvana Sutra
(1) Paramartha-satya, indicating the truth that transcends illusion and appearances in the context of Buddhist philosophy.[11] (2) The fundamental nature of existence as understood through enlightenment; often depicted by concepts such as the All-Void.[12] (3) Refers to the ultimate truth that transcends conventional understanding, which the Bodhisattva perceives through deep insight into the nature of existence.[13]
From: Karandavyuha Sutra
(1) The fundamental truth or core existence that is represented by the concept of Shunyata in Mahayana teachings.[14]
From: Lankavatara Sutra
(1) The core essence of existence that transcends dualistic interpretations of being and non-being and is closely tied to concepts of emptiness (shunyata).[15]
From: Mulamadhyamaka-karika (English)
(1) The true state of things that transcends ordinary perceptions of existence and non-existence.[16]
From: Vimalakirti Nirdesa Sutra
(1) The state of existence that transcends all dualities and distinctions, which the Tathágata abides in.[17]
From: Guhyagarbha Tantra (with Commentary)
(1) The true nature of all phenomena, as understood in Buddhism, which transcends ordinary perceptions of existence.[18] (2) The true nature of existence, where all beings are seen as fundamentally non-dual and interconnected, beyond ordinary appearances.[19] (3) The highest or most profound understanding of existence as achieved in the perfection stage.[20] (4) The highest truth that is revealed to those with insightful perception, characterized by absence of conceptual thought.[21]
From: Blue Annals (deb-ther sngon-po)
(1) The profound state of being that was abandoned in favor of more coarse practices.[22] (2) The ultimate truth or realization described in the context of the individual's spiritual attainment.[23] (3) A philosophical concept referring to the highest truth or nature of existence within certain Buddhist teachings, often discussed and debated among scholars.[24]
Hindu concept of 'Ultimate reality'
In Hinduism, Ultimate Reality, or Brahman, embodies the absolute truth transcending duality and illusion. It represents the unity of existence, the essence of consciousness, and the ultimate understanding that reveals the interconnected nature of all reality.
From: Mandukya Upanishad (Gaudapa Karika and Shankara Bhashya)
(1) The highest truth or reality, which does not allow for causal relations between entities.[25] (2) The final and true state of existence that is often obscured by transient ideas and theories that fail to capture its essence.[26] (3) The true nature that reflects the oneness of Atman, which is devoid of duality and unchangeable.[27] (4) The highest truth that is non-dual and can only be comprehended through Vedanta, as opposed to the views held by Buddhists.[28] (5) The highest state of existence or truth, regarded as unchanging and immortal.[29]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad Bhashya Vartika
(1) The absolute truth or existence in spiritual philosophy, which is represented as Brahman in this context.[30] (2) The singular essence of existence that remains unchanged, despite appearing in various forms.[31] (3) The highest truth or existence that transcends the physical and conceptual reality that people typically experience.[32] (4) The highest and most fundamental state of existence, identified as infinite and one (ekam).[33] (5) A concept representing the singular, all-encompassing truth of existence that is devoid of duality; as stated in the Chandogya, it is described as 'one only, without a second'.[34]
From: Prasthanatrayi Swaminarayan Bhashyam (Study)
(1) The highest truth and existence, which, according to the Svaminarayana School, can be fully understood through the scriptures.[35] (2) This denotes the absolute truth embodied by Parabrahman, which conveys the highest aspect of existence known to beings.[36] (3) Represents the deeper understanding and essence of existence, contrasting with worldly knowledge.[37] (4) The ultimate reality denotes the highest truth or existence that one experiences oneness with upon attaining moksha.[38] (5) The fundamental nature of existence that philosophy seeks to understand.[39]
From: Bhagavatpadabhyudaya by Lakshmana Suri (study)
(1) The fundamental, unchangeable truth underlying all existence.[40] (2) The deepest truth about existence that sages sought to understand through a systematic investigation known as Tattvavicara.[41] (3) The concept explored in the text, reflecting the core essence of consciousness (Shiva) that transcends material attributes and dualities.[42] (4) In Advaita philosophy, the ultimate reality is Brahman, which is considered the true essence that transcends illusory multiplicity.[43] (5) The highest form of existence that Indian philosophy seeks to understand and define.[44]
From: Brahma Sutras (Ramanuja)
(1) The highest understanding of existence, characterized by infinite splendour and knowledge, beyond physical manifestations.[45] (2) Ultimate reality is a concept indicating the highest truth or essence that is Brahman, transcending the physical and manifold phenomena.[46] (3) Refers to Brahman, whom one can know and become, as described in Vedanta philosophy.[47] (4) Brahman as described within the texts, indicating a state that is not subject to the limitations of physical existence or imperfections.[48]
From: Brihadaranyaka Upanishad
(1) The true nature of existence as per the Upanishads, described as Brahman.[49] (2) The concept of Brahman as the fundamental, unchanging essence of the universe, standing in contrast to the ephemeral relative world.[50] (3) A philosophical concept discussed in the text, referring to Brahman, which is said to be the indestructible essence beyond food and the vital force.[51]
From: Thirty minor Upanishads
(1) The absolute truth or Brahman that is perceived when ignorance is transcended, revealing the unity of all existence beyond physical illusion.[52] (2) The essence of existence that transcends all duality and appears both within and beyond the forms of the universe.[53]
From: Vivekachudamani
(1) The fundamental truth that lies beyond all forms of duality and distinction, synonymous with Brahman.[54] (2) The highest, most fundamental truth or existence, as represented by Brahman in Hindu philosophy.[55]
From: Shiva Gita (study and summary)
(1) The existence of Shiva beyond physical form and its manifestations in the universe.[56]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad
(1) The state of being that is beyond the physical existence and understanding, which is attained through the knowledge of Brahman.[57]
From: Katha Upanishad with Shankara’s Commentary
(1) The highest, most fundamental state of existence or truth in philosophical and spiritual contexts.[58]
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) The truth beyond the perceived physical limitations of the world, often obscured by ignorance.[59] (2) The fundamental truth or essence of existence, which transcends the falsehoods of the material world.[60] (3) The fundamental state of existence that transcends all forms and ideas.[61] (4) The deeper truth behind existence, which transcends the dichotomy of waking and dreaming, unified in divine consciousness.[62] (5) The fundamental truth of existence beyond physical forms and distinctions, perceived through consciousness.[63]
From: Bhagavata Purana
(1) The concept of the truth that underlies all existence, which can be perceived through devotion.[64] (2) A concept embodying the unmanifest primordial cause that transcends attributes and all forms of existence.[65] (3) Referred to as Apashraya, representing Brahman as the foundational truth underlying all existence.[66] (4) The last resort of the universe, regarded as the Supreme Brahma or Supreme Soul.[67] (5) Ultimate reality (ashraya) represents the absolute truth or Brahman, which is the source from which the universe emerges and ultimately returns.[68]
From: Markandeya Purana (Study)
(1) The highest truth and existence that Brahmacari aspires to understand during the period of study and discipline.[69] (2) Surya is considered the ultimate manifestation of truth and reality within Hindu philosophy.[70] (3) The realization of the ultimate reality through the attainment of Brahmahood is discussed in the Markandeyapurana.[71]
From: Linga Purana
(1) A philosophical concept that denotes the absolute truth behind existence that transcends the material world.[72] (2) The knowledge leading to the ultimate reality, which is the substratum of Pradhana and Purusha.[73]
From: Skanda Purana
(1) The transcendent truth beyond physical existence and mental conceptions.[74]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) The final truth that transcends all forms and attributes, represented by Narayana.[75]
From: Sanatsujatiya (English translation)
(1) A central pursuit of the dialogue, representing the highest spiritual truth addressed in the Sanatsujatiya.[76]
From: Gautami Mahatmya
(1) Describes Lord Shiva as the omniscient witness and the essence of everything in the universe.[77]
From: Matsya Purana (critical study)
(1) The notion in Shaktism that regards Shakti as the essential truth of existence, encompassing creation, sustenance, and destruction.[78]
From: Shiva Purana
(1) The description of Shiva as the supreme Atman, author of existence, knowledge, and bliss.[79]
From: Vakyapadiya of Bhartrihari
(1) The ultimate Reality is eternal and unaffected by appearances and disappearances, signifying a truth that transcends the temporal changes of existence and non-existence.[80] (2) The highest truth or essence that words ultimately point to, which is Brahman.[81] (3) The absolute existence that is beyond differentiation, words, and the mind, with no beginning and no end.[82] (4) The peak understanding of existence where the distinction between different entities ceases to exist.[83] (5) The ultimate Reality is what is truly cognised, transcending the unreal forms.[84]
From: Shakti and Shakta
(1) The highest truth or existence that transcends ordinary consciousness and includes all forms of reality.[85] (2) The ultimate reality is identified with Samvid, Caitanya, or Cit, indicating a state that transcends conventional understanding.[86] (3) The highest, ineffable existence that transcends names and forms in Taoist philosophy, often associated with Tao and Brahman.[87]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) The concept of the Supreme Personality of Godhead, which many fail to recognize due to superficial understanding of philosophy.[88]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) The absolute truth underlying the material and spiritual worlds, often associated with the concept of Brahman.[89]
From: Sri Krishna-Chaitanya
(1) Identified as the highest aspect of Godhead (para tattva), representing the essence of existence and truth.[90]
From: Yoga-sutras (with Bhoja’s Rajamartanda)
(1) The highest truth or state of existence that one aims to perceive and understand through meditative practices, beyond the ordinary experiences of the world.[91]
From: Yoga-sutras (Vedanta Commentaries)
(1) Brahman, which cannot be said to create, sustain, or dissolve, as it is by definition without attributes.[92]
From: The Sarva-Darsana-Samgraha
(1) The concept seeking to identify the foundational essence of all that exists, entailing philosophical exploration into diverse forms of knowledge.[93] (2) A concept representing the highest truth, in which Vishnu is understood to be the supreme existence above all other entities.[94]
From: Tiruvacakam Part I
(1) The concept of a supreme, absolute existence that transcends ordinary life and understanding.[95]
From: Hanuman Nataka (critical study)
(1) The concept conveyed in the Kathopanishad regarding Atman as the final and true essence of existence.[96]
From: Padarthadharmasamgraha and Nyayakandali
(1) The highest form of truth or existence that transcends the material world and karmic cycles.[97]
From: Narayaniya (Narayaneeyam)
(1) The state of being that transcends all finite existence, sought after through rigorous philosophical inquiry and devotion.[98]
From: Nyayakusumanjali of Udayana (study)
(1) In Vedanta, Brahman is seen as the sole reality, with everything else as mere illusion, contrary to Udayana’s views.[99]
Jain concept of 'Ultimate reality'
In Jainism, Ultimate reality signifies the attainment of the highest truth through spiritual practices like yoga, as emphasized in Haribhadrasuri's works, highlighting its critical role in understanding existence and spiritual enlightenment.
From: Yogadrstisamuccaya of Haribhadra Suri (Study)
(1) A critical concept in Haribhadrasuri's works that reflects the idea of achieving the highest truth through spiritual practice, especially yoga.[100]
The concept of Ultimate reality in local and regional sources
Ultimate reality represents the singular divine essence and true nature of existence, transcending the physical world and comprehended through spiritual practices, self-inquiry, and meditation, reflecting foundational truths across various philosophical and religious perspectives.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) Brahma is considered the ultimate reality and the essence of all things.[101] (2) The concept of Brahman as the omniscient, omnipresent, and omnipotent essence that is the basis of all existence and the true nature of Atman.[102] (3) The fundamental nature of existence that encompasses all truths beyond human comprehension.[103] (4) Forster's quest for understanding deeper truths about human relationships and existence as portrayed in his literary works.[104] (5) The underlying essence of existence recognized as Truth, Goodness, and Beauty in both Indian and Greek philosophies.[105]
From: Self-Knowledge in Krishnamurti’s Philosophy
(1) A profound truth about existence that one realizes through self-control and meditation, leading to self-knowledge.[106]
The concept of Ultimate reality in scientific sources
Ultimate reality signifies a transcendent state beyond time and space, which yoga practitioners seek to comprehend and connect with, reflecting a deeper understanding of existence that transcends ordinary experiences.
From: Ancient Science of Life
(1) A state of existence beyond time and space which yoga practitioners aim to understand and connect with.[107]