Significance of Absolute reality
In Hinduism, Absolute reality is a core philosophical concept that refers to an unchanging, ultimate truth transcending individual perception and material existence. Different schools, such as Vaishnavism, Vedanta, and Shaivism, interpret it as the essence of spiritual inquiry, often identified with Brahman or Parashiva. It represents the ultimate state of being, beyond illusions and dualities, and is considered the ultimate goal of spiritual realization. This truth is also echoed in Buddhist traditions, where it is linked to Nibbana, emphasizing its universality across various philosophies.
Synonyms: Ultimate truth, True essence, Actual reality, Fundamental truth, True nature, Objective reality
In Dutch: Absolute realiteit; In Finnish: Absoluuttinen todellisuus; In Spanish: Realidad absoluta; In German: Absolute Realität; In Swedish: Absolut verklighet; In Malay: Realiti mutlak; In French: Réalité absolue
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Absolute reality'
Absolute reality in Buddhism, or Nibbana, signifies an ultimate truth that transcends conditioned existence, embodying a homogenous state free from attachment and subjective interpretations, representing the highest understanding beyond ordinary perceptions and relative truths.
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) The ultimate truth or nature of things, which transcends conventional perceptions and practices.[1] (2) The highest truth (paramartha) as understood in the context of Buddhist philosophy, going beyond relative truths to ultimate understanding.[2]
From: Akshayamatinirdesha [english]
(1) This refers to the non-differentiated and homogeneous state that is understood through the meaning, in contrast to the differentiated religious ways taught by the letter.[3] (2) A state of existence or understanding that is the ultimate truth, free from any attachment or subjective interpretation.[4]
From: Vimalakirti Nirdesa Sutra
(1) The ultimate truth that is unchanging and beyond all phenomena perceived in the material world.[5]
From: Lankavatara Sutra
(1) The ultimate truth of existence that transcends ordinary perceptions and conceptual thinking.[6]
From: A Manual of Abhidhamma
(1) Nibbana is viewed as an absolute reality (vatthu-dhamma) that transcends the conditioned world of mind and body.[7]
Hindu concept of 'Absolute reality'
Absolute reality in Hinduism, primarily embodied by Brahman, represents the unchanging ultimate truth, transcending perception and material existence. It encompasses individual souls and the universe, signifying a fundamental state of being, essential for spiritual realization.
From: Taittiriya Upanishad Bhashya Vartika
(1) The concept that only Brahman is truly real, as opposed to modifications or effects that are considered illusory.[8] (2) The state of being that cannot be questioned or perceived differently, which, according to the text, is only associated with the Self.[9] (3) The unchanging and fundamental truth of Brahman, as distinguished from the transient nature of the world.[10] (4) Another term for the absolute truth, which is untouched by falsehood and represents the ultimate existence.[11] (5) The ultimate truth that is unchanging and fundamental, represented by Brahman, distinguishing it from the transient experiences of the material world.[12]
From: Mandukya Upanishad (Gaudapa Karika and Shankara Bhashya)
(1) The ultimate state of being that transcends relative perceptions, being identical with Brahman.[13] (2) The concept of unchanging and true existence, in contrast to the relative and often illusory nature of experiences perceived in dreams.[14]
From: Mandukya Upanishad
(1) The ultimate truth or reality that transcends relative realities and is not misled by sensory perceptions.[15] (2) The ultimate truth or state of existence that transcends all forms and concepts, recognized only through deep inner understanding.[16]
From: Vivekachudamani
(1) The fundamental truth that encompasses the nature of the Infinite Brahman, which is free from negation and duality.[17] (2) The ultimate truth or existence that transcends all forms and is identified with Brahman.[18]
From: Brihadaranyaka Upanishad
(1) The state of existence that is unchanging and independent, contrasted with the transient nature of a differentiated universe and individual identities.[19]
From: Chandogya Upanishad (Shankara Bhashya)
(1) The ultimate truth or existence that is unchanging and is the foundation of all understanding; contrasted with relative reality.[20]
From: Kaivalya Upanishad
(1) This Absolute Reality is known and accepted with complete certainty, regardless of its form or medium.[21]
From: Brahma Sutras (Shankaracharya)
(1) The concept of a permanent, unchanging state, which is contrasted with the transient nature of dreams.[22]
From: Chandogya Upanishad (english Translation)
(1) The idea that Brahman is the ultimate truth and source of all creation, unconditioned by forms.[23]
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) The ultimate truth or existence that transcends individual perception and experience.[24] (2) The underlying truth behind perceptions and appearances, suggesting that all forms and experiences are ultimately representations of the mind.[25]
From: Sri Krishna-Chaitanya
(1) The ultimate truth or existence that transcends individual perception and material understanding, posited as a goal of spiritual inquiry and devotion.[26]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) The ultimate truth that characterizes Vaikuntha, in contrast to the temporary nature of the material world.[27]
From: The Sarva-Darsana-Samgraha
(1) The concept debated by various philosophical doctrines, positing that existence beyond illusion is derived from a singular truth.[28]
The concept of Absolute reality in local and regional sources
Absolute reality refers to the ultimate truth that transcends perceptions, dualities, and logical constructs, encompassing all existence. It is essential in religious and philosophical contexts, emphasizing unchanging truths beyond human understanding and perceptions.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) The most fundamental level of existence, unmediated by human perception or logical constructs, described as pure and indivisible.[29] (2) The ultimate truth that transcends all appearances and notions of becoming, described by Sankara in the context of serious philosophical inquiry.[30] (3) The fundamental truth that transcends all perceived dualities, regarded as the ultimate goal of spiritual inquiry and realization.[31] (4) The unchanging and ultimate truth that exists beyond our perceptions of forms and names.[32] (5) The ultimate truth or reality that encompasses all existence, often intertwined with religious and philosophical discussions.[33]
From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda
(1) This is something that the world has no, which only belongs to Brahman, which is beyond the reach of mind and speech, according to the text.[34] (2) This is the highest manifestation of the Absolute Reality, and in other words, the highest possible reading of the Absolute by the human mind, which is Ishvara.[35] (3) The quality that nescience does not possess, as it can be called neither real nor unreal, as explained by Swamiji.[36] (4) The Absolute Reality is the highest manifestation of the Absolute, or in other words, the highest possible reading of the Absolute by the human mind, which is Ishvara.[37] (5) This can only be proven through realization, because when one realizes Brahman, Maya ceases to exist for that person, like the illusion of the serpent.[38]