Significance of Universal consciousness
Universal consciousness is a crucial concept across various philosophical and spiritual traditions in India, representing the all-encompassing awareness of the Devi and linking individuals to a collective existence. It is seen as the essence of creation, transcending individual identities and connecting all beings through a shared awareness. In practices such as Yoga and teachings of Vedanta, it is viewed as a state achieved by merging individual consciousness with a unified collective. This overarching awareness reflects a fundamental connection to the divine and the experience of existence as one interconnected reality.
Synonyms: Collective consciousness, Cosmic awareness, Collective mind, Universal awareness, Universal mind, Cosmic consciousness, Global awareness, Collective awareness
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Universal consciousness'
Universal consciousness in Hinduism signifies a shared awareness uniting all beings, representing the Devi as the source of creation. It transcends individual identity, merging personal consciousness with an all-encompassing, divine awareness inherent in the universe.
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) The highest nature of the Devi, representing ultimate awareness and the essence of all existence.[1] (2) The awareness shared among all beings, understood as the Highest Self that connects everything.[2] (3) The concept of Universal Consciousness represents the all-encompassing awareness of the Devi, transcending individual deities and entities.[3] (4) Describes the all-pervading awareness of the Devi, acknowledging her role as the source of creation and consciousness in the universe.[4]
From: Skanda Purana
(1) The metaphysical idea of an all-encompassing awareness that connects the individual with the divine.[5]
From: Shaiva Upanishads (A Critical Study)
(1) Refers to the fundamental awareness that encompasses all beings and the universe as a whole.[6]
From: Gitartha Samgraha (critical Study)
(1) A state of awareness that transcends individual existence and connects one to all beings.[7]
From: Yoga-sutras (Ancient and Modern Interpretations)
(1) A state of awareness that merges individual consciousness with a collective, unified state recognized in spiritual and yogic traditions.[8]
From: Thirty minor Upanishads
(1) The idea that consciousness pervades everything, being one with Brahman and transcending individual identity.[9]
The concept of Universal consciousness in local and regional sources
Universal consciousness encompasses collective awareness, connecting all beings and facilitating deep interactions. It emphasizes a transcendence of individual identity, aligning with Vedantic beliefs and Kashmir Shaivism, reflecting a shared spiritual essence akin to oceanic unity.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) A collective state of awareness that connects all beings, representing the infinite nature of existence.[10] (2) Universal Consciousness is the overarching awareness that yoga seeks to achieve by transcending individual ego and identity.[11] (3) An overarching awareness that encompasses all experiences of events, shaping perceptions of time collectively.[12] (4) A concept in Kashmir Shaivism referring to a fundamental awareness that is believed to be synonymous with the Self.[13] (5) The awareness that The Mother interacts with, allowing her to connect deeply with every individual while maintaining a broader spiritual vision.[14]
From: Lord Jhulelal: An Analytical Study
(1) A concept of a collective awareness that connects all beings, likened to an ocean with individuals as drops within it.[15]
The concept of Universal consciousness in scientific sources
Universal consciousness represents the shared awareness and spiritual essence that connects all beings, highlighting the interconnectedness of life and the collective experience that transcends individual existence.
From: International Ayurvedic Medical Journal
(1) The collective awareness and spiritual essence believed to connect all beings.[16]