Significance of Higher stage
The concept of the Higher stage spans multiple spiritual traditions, indicating advanced levels of development and consciousness. In Jainism, it represents the transcending of certain bondages and wrong beliefs. Tibetan Buddhism associates it with maturity in mercy and wisdom, while Vaishnavism emphasizes devotion through bhakti. Yoga's Higher stage denotes mastery in practices like Samyama and Pranayama, leading to liberation. Similarly, Vyakarana, Vedanta, Mahayana, and Theravada outline advanced cognitive and spiritual attainments, reflecting profound shifts in understanding and spiritual realization.
Synonyms: Elevated level
In Dutch: Hogere fase; In Finnish: Korkeampi vaihe; In Spanish: Etapa superior; In German: Höhere Stufe; In Swedish: Högre stadium; In Malay: Peringkat yang lebih tinggi; In French: Étape supérieure
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Higher stage'
The "Higher stage" in Buddhism signifies advanced spiritual development characterized by qualities like mercy and wisdom, culminating in greater understanding and realization through practices like meditation, ultimately leading to significant spiritual achievements.
From: A Discourse on Paticcasamuppada
(1) The advanced levels of the Ariyan path, characterized by an increased dedication to good actions and contemplation.[1] (2) The advanced levels of spiritual attainment that one aims for on their path.[2]
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) Refers to advanced levels of spiritual development attained by Kisagotami after her insights.[3]
From: Introducing Buddhist Abhidhamma
(1) The advanced level of understanding achieved through Buddhist Practice and meditation.[4]
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) Pertains to a level of spiritual attainment (uttarabhumi) that allows for greater understanding or capabilities.[5]
From: Lankavatara Sutra
(1) Refers to the successive stages of realization that the Yogin experiences, culminating in advanced spiritual achievements beyond the initial stage.[6]
From: Tattvasangraha [with commentary]
(1) Indicates advanced levels of development or maturity that qualities such as mercy and wisdom can achieve, akin to the improvement observed in grains.[7]
Hindu concept of 'Higher stage'
The "Higher stage" in Hinduism signifies a profound level of enlightenment and understanding, representing advanced devotion, mastery in spiritual practices, and cosmic significance, ultimately leading to liberation and unparalleled spiritual bliss.
From: Yoga-sutras (with Bhoja’s Rajamartanda)
(1) The advanced level of Samyama practice that should be approached only after mastering the lower stages.[8]
From: Yoga-sutras (with Vyasa and Vachaspati Mishra)
(1) The advanced levels of mastery that one ascends to during the practice of Pranayama, as each state is gradually learned.[9]
From: Yoga-sutras (Vedanta Commentaries)
(1) A level of enlightenment in which identity with the object of concentration is achieved without any mixed awareness.[10]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad Bhashya Vartika
(1) The higher stages refer to levels of existence that include the Viraj and the Hiranyagarbha, which are explained in the context of their cosmic significance.[11] (2) A level of existence or consciousness that surpasses ordinary human happiness, implying a more profound or spiritual form of bliss.[12]
From: Vakyapadiya of Bhartrihari
(1) A level of understanding or cognition that transcends ordinary perceptions and distinctions, representing a more profound clarity.[13]
From: Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu
(1) Advanced levels of devotion or spiritual consciousness that can be attained through proper understanding of bhakti.[14]
Jain concept of 'Higher stage'
In Jainism, the Higher stage signifies advanced spiritual levels where wrong beliefs are prevented through samvara, and certain bondages, like duration and fruition-bondage, cease to exist, reflecting significant spiritual progress.
From: Tattvartha Sutra (with commentary)
(1) In the higher stages of spiritual development, certain types of bondage, such as duration-bondage and fruition-bondage, are no longer possible.[15]
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) Levels of spiritual advancement where wrong beliefs can be effectively blocked through samvara.[16]
The concept of Higher stage in local and regional sources
Higher stage signifies a heightened existence or awareness attained through sacrifice, representing an advanced human consciousness opportunity in the new age, as highlighted by regional sources.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) A level of existence or awareness that is achieved through the understanding and practice of sacrifice.[17] (2) An advanced level of human consciousness that individuals have the chance to achieve in the new age.[18]
From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda
(1) The higher stage involves adopting the perspective of another individual, implying the ability to understand and empathize with their experiences and ideas, which expands comprehension.[19]