Significance of Worldly happiness
Worldly happiness, as outlined in various philosophical traditions, signifies a temporary and superficial joy derived from material life. In Vaishnavism, it represents fleeting satisfactions rejected by spiritual seekers. Purana emphasizes its transience and contrast with eternal virtues. Mahayana distinguishes worldly happiness from spiritual fulfillment, stating it is a distraction stemming from materialism. Theravada describes it as a joy understood only through specific experiences, highlighting that such happiness remains ephemeral and ultimately distracts from deeper spiritual growth and fulfillment.
Synonyms: Material pleasure
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Worldly happiness'
Worldly happiness in Buddhism encompasses temporary joys linked to material possessions and social status, distinct from spiritual fulfillment. While perceived as significant, it ultimately distracts from deeper spiritual growth and true inner satisfaction.
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) The transient joy associated with material or social status, which the practitioner wishes to transcend.[1] (2) Of all worldly happiness (laukikasukha), heaven (svarga) is considered the greatest.[2] (3) Temporary pleasures or satisfactions derived from material existence, which distract beings from spiritual growth.[3] (4) Worldly happiness is a form of happiness associated with earthly and material conditions, distinct from supramundane happiness, which is linked to spiritual attainment.[4] (5) Worldly happiness (lokasukha) is the external and temporary form of happiness derived from material possessions and experiences, in contrast to inner happiness.[5]
From: Buddhacarita
(1) Temporal joy derived from material possessions and experiences, contrasting with spiritual pursuits.[6] (2) The transient joy sought by King Mara that stands in opposition to the Bodhisattva’s path.[7]
From: The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) A state of joy and contentment that is said to be understood fully only by those who experience the delights of Nandavana Garden.[8]
From: The Great Chariot
(1) The contentment and joy that arise from making wise choices and following good actions, as guided by teachings.[9]
Hindu concept of 'Worldly happiness'
Worldly happiness in Hinduism is characterized as transient material pleasures that distract from spiritual growth, representing fleeting joys dependent on wealth, ultimately rejected in favor of eternal righteousness and virtue exemplified by figures like Rama.
From: Taittiriya Upanishad Bhashya Vartika
(1) A form of happiness that may be generated through the contact of senses with objects, contrasting with Brahman-bliss.[10] (2) The nature of happiness that is investigated by shruti to help elucidate the concept of Brahman-bliss.[11] (3) A temporary sense of joy or satisfaction derived from external sources or experiences.[12] (4) The happiness that is attained through external means and bodily accomplishments.[13]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) A transient joy dependent on material wealth, which the narrative suggests is ultimately illusory and vanishes like a dream.[14]
From: The Skanda Purana
(1) A fleeting state of well-being that is contrasted against the eternal ideals of righteousness and virtue espoused by Rama.[15]
From: The Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) Material pleasures that are transient and not conducive to spiritual growth.[16]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) The temporary and superficial joys associated with material life, which Lord Vishvambhara chose to reject.[17] (2) A concept that pertains to the temporary joy people seek in life, subject to the fluctuations of material existence.[18]
From: Bhajana-Rahasya
(1) Temporary pleasure derived from material possessions and experiences, which are ultimately insignificant compared to spiritual happiness.[19]