Significance of Beginning and the end
The keyphrase "Beginning and the end" encompasses various interpretations across different philosophical and spiritual traditions. According to Purana, it signifies the Supreme Being's role in all existence phases. In Shaivism, it highlights the cyclical stages of creation, preservation, and dissolution. Mahayana views it as the initial and final stages of spiritual practice and the formations skandha. Additionally, in Indian history, it represents the narrative's start and conclusion, illustrating the ongoing journey of existence.
Synonyms: Start, Commencement, Onset, Starting point, Conclusion, Finish, Alpha and omega
In Finnish: Alku ja loppu; In Spanish: Principio y fin
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Beginning and the end'
In Buddhism, "Beginning and the end" signifies the stages of cultivating and understanding the formations skandha, highlighting the transformative journey of spiritual practice from initiation to ultimate cessation.
From: Shurangama Sutra (with commentary) (English)
(1) The initial and final stages of a process, particularly referring to the cultivation and cessation of the formations skandha.[1] (2) The initial and final phases of cultivation and understanding in spiritual practice.[2]
Hindu concept of 'Beginning and the end'
In Hinduism, the concept of Beginning and the End symbolizes the Supreme Being's encompassing nature, highlighting the cyclical phases of existence: creation, preservation, and dissolution, as interpreted through the philosophical teachings of the Upanishads.
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) The concept that the Supreme Being encompasses all phases of existence.[3]
The concept of Beginning and the end in local and regional sources
"Beginning and the end" signifies the start and conclusion of a journey, highlighting the cyclical nature of narratives and existence, suggesting individuals may find themselves navigating through phases between these two pivotal points.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) Concepts representing the start and conclusion of a narrative or existence, implying that one can be caught in the midst of a journey.[4]