Significance of Ultimate reality
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; In German: Ultimative Realität; In Malay: Realiti muktamad; In Swedish: Den ultimata verkligheten; In French: La réalité ultime; In Polish: Ostateczna rzeczywistość; In Italian: Realtà ultima; In Portugese: Realidade suprema
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 epitomizes the profound truth of existence, transcending dualities and conventional interpretations. It is closely linked to concepts like Nibbana, shunyata, and the essence of Insight Meditation, leading to spiritual enlightenment.
From: Maha Buddhavamsa—The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) Forbearance is not a separate one of these, like Wisdom or Energy, unless considered by itself as adosa cetasika.[1] (2) Nibbana, which is the true extinction of all suffering, the goal of the Prince's renunciation.[2] (3) This is the Unconditioned Element, possessing the quality of peace, that is understood through specific knowledge, which results in the complete elimination of all impurities, preventing their return, also known as Nibbana.[3] (4) The highest truth or state of existence, referring specifically to Nibbana in the context of Buddhist teachings.[4] (5) The concept referring to Nibbana that the Bodhisatta aspires to achieve, indicating the profound spiritual journey beyond worldly concerns.[5]
From: Introducing Buddhist Abhidhamma
(1) The fundamental truth that forms the background of Insight Meditation, providing a deep understanding necessary for achieving nirvana.[6] (2) Encompasses only physical and mental phenomena that arise and cease; does not include a permanent self.[7]
From: A Manual of Abhidhamma
(1) Nibbana is recognized as an ultimate reality, or vatthu-dhamma, beyond the physical and psychological aggregates.[8] (2) Abstract truth (paramattha-sacca) as opposed to apparent reality, which is ordinary conventional truth.[9]
From: Patthana Dhamma
(1) A fundamental truth that is always applicable and unchanging across all contexts and times.[10]
From: A Discourse on Paticcasamuppada
(1) A deeper understanding of existence that transcends mere appearances and conventional identifications.[11]
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.[12]
From: Cetasikas
(1) The term 'dhamma' can refer to various meanings, including teachings and paramattha dhamma, which are ultimate realities.[13]
From: Mahayana Mahaparinirvana Sutra
(1) It is a truth in which the Bodhisattva-mahasattva believes, along with good expedient means.[14] (2) Paramartha-satya, indicating the truth that transcends illusion and appearances in the context of Buddhist philosophy.[15] (3) The fundamental nature of existence as understood through enlightenment; often depicted by concepts such as the All-Void.[16] (4) Refers to the ultimate truth that transcends conventional understanding, which the Bodhisattva perceives through deep insight into the nature of existence.[17]
From: Lankavatara Sutra
(1) It exists beyond convention, as described in the provided text, but its nature is not further elaborated.[18] (2) The core essence of existence that transcends dualistic interpretations of being and non-being and is closely tied to concepts of emptiness (shunyata).[19]
From: Vimalakirti Nirdesa Sutra
(1) The state of existence that transcends all dualities and distinctions, which the Tathágata abides in.[20]
From: Blue Annals (deb-ther sngon-po)
(1) The profound state of being that was abandoned in favor of more coarse practices.[21] (2) The ultimate truth or realization described in the context of the individual's spiritual attainment.[22] (3) A philosophical concept referring to the highest truth or nature of existence within certain Buddhist teachings, often discussed and debated among scholars.[23]
Hindu concept of 'Ultimate reality'
Ultimate reality in Hinduism, primarily identified as Brahman, represents the absolute, non-dual truth of existence that transcends all perceptions, forms, and dualities, culminating in ultimate understanding and liberation (moksha). It embodies the unchanging essence of being.
From: Mandukya Upanishad (Gaudapa Karika and Shankara Bhashya)
(1) A standpoint from which epithets like permanence or impermanence, or corresponding sounds, cannot be applied to Jivas.[24] (2) If Turiya cannot be established through the examination of the Atman qualified by the three states, by following the scriptural method of negation, then one is faced with the only alternative that the is total non-existence because no other reality remains after the negation of the upadhis of the three states if the existence of Turiya be denied.[25] (3) From the perspective of this concept, the text declares an absence of duality, representing a fundamental truth or principle.[26] (4) The highest truth or reality, which does not allow for causal relations between entities.[27] (5) The final and true state of existence that is often obscured by transient ideas and theories that fail to capture its essence.[28]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad Bhashya Vartika
(1) The fundamental principle or essence from which all existence arises, is sustained, and eventually returns, often referred to as Brahman.[29] (2) Ultimate reality refers to the fundamental nature of existence, often associated with concepts like Brahman, and a seeker should pursue Brahman-knowledge to understand ultimate reality.[30] (3) The fundamental truth about existence, the essence of all things, which is obscured by ignorance but can be realized through knowledge and spiritual insight.[31] (4) The absolute truth or existence in spiritual philosophy, which is represented as Brahman in this context.[32] (5) The singular essence of existence that remains unchanged, despite appearing in various forms.[33]
From: Vivekachudamani
(1) Ultimate reality, known as the Absolute or Supreme Self, results in the phenomenal world becoming reduced to mere talk when the mind is merged.[34] (2) It is the fundamental substance or essence that underlies all existence, with which the universe is said to be identical.[35] (3) The ultimate reality, as the Supreme Self, is not separate from the universe; the belief in their distinction arises from delusion and misperception.[36] (4) It is the supreme and fundamental truth that underlies all existence and transcends ordinary perception.[37] (5) The fundamental truth that lies beyond all forms of duality and distinction, synonymous with Brahman.[38]
From: Brahma Sutras (Ramanuja)
(1) The highest understanding of existence, characterized by infinite splendour and knowledge, beyond physical manifestations.[39] (2) Ultimate reality is a concept indicating the highest truth or essence that is Brahman, transcending the physical and manifold phenomena.[40] (3) Refers to Brahman, whom one can know and become, as described in Vedanta philosophy.[41] (4) Brahman as described within the texts, indicating a state that is not subject to the limitations of physical existence or imperfections.[42]
From: Brihadaranyaka Upanishad
(1) The true nature of existence as per the Upanishads, described as Brahman.[43] (2) The concept of Brahman as the fundamental, unchanging essence of the universe, standing in contrast to the ephemeral relative world.[44] (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.[45]
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.[46] (2) The essence of existence that transcends all duality and appears both within and beyond the forms of the universe.[47]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad
(1) The state of being that is beyond the physical existence and understanding, which is attained through the knowledge of Brahman.[48]
From: Katha Upanishad with Shankara’s Commentary
(1) The highest, most fundamental state of existence or truth in philosophical and spiritual contexts.[49]
From: Chandogya Upanishad (english Translation)
(1) It refers to a fundamental truth or principle that underlies all existence, often associated with concepts like Brahman.[50]
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) The truth beyond the perceived physical limitations of the world, often obscured by ignorance.[51] (2) The fundamental truth or essence of existence, which transcends the falsehoods of the material world.[52] (3) The fundamental state of existence that transcends all forms and ideas.[53] (4) The deeper truth behind existence, which transcends the dichotomy of waking and dreaming, unified in divine consciousness.[54] (5) The fundamental truth of existence beyond physical forms and distinctions, perceived through consciousness.[55]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) The final truth that transcends all forms and attributes, represented by Narayana.[56]
From: Sanatsujatiya (English translation)
(1) A central pursuit of the dialogue, representing the highest spiritual truth addressed in the Sanatsujatiya.[57]
From: Gautami Mahatmya
(1) Describes Lord Shiva as the omniscient witness and the essence of everything in the universe.[58]
From: Vakyapadiya of Bhartrihari
(1) The ultimate reality is in the nature of the word, according to the doctrine that the ultimate reality from which everything comes is in the nature of word, where the argument is used in the different systems of philosophy also.[59] (2) The ultimate Reality is eternal and unaffected by appearances and disappearances, signifying a truth that transcends the temporal changes of existence and non-existence.[60] (3) The highest truth or essence that words ultimately point to, which is Brahman.[61] (4) The absolute existence that is beyond differentiation, words, and the mind, with no beginning and no end.[62] (5) The peak understanding of existence where the distinction between different entities ceases to exist.[63]
From: Shakti and Shakta
(1) Consciousness is this, in which all modes whether subjective or objective exist.[64] (2) The highest truth or existence that transcends ordinary consciousness and includes all forms of reality.[65] (3) The ultimate reality is identified with Samvid, Caitanya, or Cit, indicating a state that transcends conventional understanding.[66] (4) The highest, ineffable existence that transcends names and forms in Taoist philosophy, often associated with Tao and Brahman.[67]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) The concept of the Supreme Personality of Godhead, which many fail to recognize due to superficial understanding of philosophy.[68]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) The absolute truth underlying the material and spiritual worlds, often associated with the concept of Brahman.[69]
From: Sri Krishna-Chaitanya
(1) Identified as the highest aspect of Godhead (para tattva), representing the essence of existence and truth.[70]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) Ultimate reality signifies the Supreme Personality of Godhead, the absolute truth and source of all existence, representing the highest form of being and the foundation of all that exists.[71]
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.[72]
From: Yoga-sutras (Vedanta Commentaries)
(1) Brahman, which cannot be said to create, sustain, or dissolve, as it is by definition without attributes.[73]
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.[74] (2) A concept representing the highest truth, in which Vishnu is understood to be the supreme existence above all other entities.[75]
From: Padarthadharmasamgraha and Nyayakandali
(1) The highest form of truth or existence that transcends the material world and karmic cycles.[76]
From: Tiruvacakam Part I
(1) The concept of a supreme, absolute existence that transcends ordinary life and understanding.[77]
Jain concept of 'Ultimate reality'
In Jainism, Ultimate reality is a central concept in Haribhadrasuri's writings. It signifies attaining the highest truth through spiritual practice, particularly yoga. This involves dedicated effort to achieve enlightenment and liberation from the cycle of rebirth.
The concept of Ultimate reality in local and regional sources
Ultimate reality is the foundational essence of existence recognized in various philosophies, encompassing Truth, Goodness, and Beauty. It transcends individual perspectives, embodying concepts like Brahman, guiding spiritual realization, and connecting all beings within a deeper truth.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) Rama and Savithri together affirm the central advaitic position that ultimate reality is identical with the individual self and that the duality of I and Thou is false, reinforcing the story's theme.[78] (2) Metaphysical thinkers have tried to approach ultimate reality through the intellect, but they assign it a subordinate status.[79] (3) Ultimate Reality is that which the soul is yoked with, a concept explored through the rhetoric of science in the autobiography.[80] (4) Though the philosophy of Shankara expounds the qualityless Brahman as the Ultimate Reality, still he has at the same time emphasised the necessity for devotion and the operation of the Lord’s grace.[81] (5) This describes the final destination of nature, as it evolves and merges with the ultimate truth, representing the complete understanding and union of all things.[82]
From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda
(1) Meditation consists in this practice of dissolving everything into the ultimate Reality — spirit, and the solid melts into liquid, that into gas, gas into ether, then mind, and mind will melt away.[83]
The concept of Ultimate reality in scientific sources
Ultimate reality encompasses the fundamental essence of existence, transcending complete medical comprehension. It represents a state beyond time and space, which yoga practitioners seek to understand and connect with in their spiritual journey.
From: Religions Journal (MDPI)
(1) The goal of spiritual practice is the recognition of the ultimate reality as ´Siva-´Sakti, as indicated in the block of text, suggesting a philosophical understanding of the interconnectedness and unity of divine energies.[84] (2) A state or condition in which individuals participate, expressing a fundamental aspect of their experience.[85] (3) This is something that is nondual and thus all beings are part of nature, an idea quite unacceptable to Madhva.[86] (4) Ultimate reality is reached through various paths, as suggested by Sri Ramakrishna, emphasizing the validity of different religious traditions in leading to the highest realization.[87] (5) "Ultimate reality" is described as infinite quantitatively and qualitatively, suggesting a comprehensive nature that goes beyond simple measurement or description.[88]
From: Religious Inquiries (Journal)
(1) Ultimate Reality is a term used in the document of the Parliament of the World's Religions as a compromise to accommodate both those who wanted to mention God and those who objected.[89] (2) Ultimate reality is a way to define the word Taoism, coming from a Chinese character Tao, which means the way, and it is usually further defined as the way of the universe, the way of human life, and the way of nature.[90] (3) Once the sun of knowledge arises in the wise one, no shadow of ignorance remains, the mind does not project any subject-object dualism nor is there anything distinct happening, known as the mind.[91] (4) According to the provided text, the ultimate reality existent in the Guru Granth Sahib is certainly a metaphysical one, represented by the numeral one.[92]
From: South African Family Practice
(1) This refers to the fundamental nature of existence, which is often beyond complete understanding from a medical perspective.[93]
From: Sustainability Journal (MDPI)
(1) It is empty: “utter” and “sublime” contingency, the evolutions and vectors of probability that mutually create each other in an infinitude of what Buddhists often call “dependant co-arising” or “dependant origination.”[94]
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