Significance of Holy life
Holy life, as described across various traditions, is a lifestyle centered on spiritual commitment, moral integrity, and detachment from worldly attachments. In Jainism, Purana, Mahayana, Theravada, and Indian history, this concept emphasizes a virtuous existence dedicated to spiritual practices, ethical conduct, and the pursuit of enlightenment. Characters within these traditions exemplify holy life through their devotion and adherence to righteousness, moral principles, and the quest for liberation from suffering and rebirth. This multifaceted approach underscores the importance of living in accordance with spiritual ideals.
Synonyms: Sacred life, Divine life, Spiritual life, Blessed life, Virtuous life, Pious life, Devout life
In Dutch: Heilig leven; In Finnish: Pyhä elämä; In Spanish: Vida santa; In German: Heiliges Leben; In Malay: Hidup suci; In Swedish: Heligt liv; In French: La vie sainte
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Holy life'
Holy life in Buddhism encompasses a lifestyle devoted to spiritual practice, moral conduct, and the pursuit of enlightenment. It emphasizes virtues, detachment from worldly desires, and leads towards liberation from suffering as taught by the Buddha.
From: Guide to Tipitaka
(1) The aspirational spiritual practice that many teachers and their disciples held differing views about during the Buddha's time.[1] (2) A life led in strict adherence to ethical and spiritual practices, often devoid of worldly attachments.[2] (3) A lifestyle dedicated to spiritual practices, meditation, and adherence to ethical conduct as taught by the Buddha.[3] (4) A way of living applauded by the Buddha that emphasizes virtue, harmony, and the practice of the Dhamma.[4] (5) The dedicated lifestyle of a bhikkhu focused on spiritual practices.[5]
From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) The ultimate goal of spiritual seekers, representing purity, righteousness, and the quest for liberation from life's burdens.[6] (2) The religious life that Prince Hatthipala and his brothers aspired to embrace, renouncing worldly possessions.[7] (3) A life led with spiritual integrity and purity, which the prince ultimately aspires to return to after overcoming his worldly desires.[8] (4) A life devoted to spiritual pursuits, meditation, and renunciation of worldly attachments.[9] (5) A life devoted to spiritual practices and moral living, which the ascetics strive to maintain without the distractions of desire.[10]
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) The disciplined and ethical way of living that leads an individual towards spiritual awakening and enlightenment.[11] (2) A way of living that transcends good and evil, characterized by higher discipline and moral conduct.[12] (3) A way of living characterized by spiritual discipline and adherence to moral precepts, often associated with monks.[13] (4) A spiritual life led by individuals aiming for higher moral and ethical standards.[14] (5) The practice of living a life according to religious principles, particularly within Buddhism, which if faltering, does not result in great rewards.[15]
From: Vinaya (2): The Mahavagga
(1) A life dedicated to spiritual practice and morality, as exemplified by the Sakyaputtiya Samanas.[16] (2) A lifestyle dedicated to spiritual practice and adherence to monastic rules for the sake of achieving enlightenment.[17] (3) A life dedicated to spiritual practice aimed at achieving the complete extinction of suffering.[18] (4) A lifestyle pursued by the ordained individuals, focused on achieving complete extinction of suffering through spiritual practices.[19] (5) A life dedicated to spiritual practice and the pursuit of enlightenment, which is sought by those who are ordained and reflects the teachings of the Sakyaputtiya Samanas.[20]
From: Maha Buddhavamsa—The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) The monastic path characterized by renunciation and dedication to spiritual practice, which Sona yearned to embrace.[21] (2) A way of living that prioritizes spiritual development, meditation, and ethical conduct over material concerns and desires.[22] (3) The spiritual practices and ethical conduct followed by monks and disciples in Buddhism.[23]
From: Mahavamsa
(1) A way of living dedicated to spiritual practice and discipline, as exemplified by the queen Anula and the laysisters.[24]
From: Abhidhamma in Daily Life
(1) The practice of living morally and spiritually in alignment with the teachings of the Buddha, leading towards the end of suffering.[25]
From: A Discourse on Paticcasamuppada
(1) A life dedicated to spiritual practice, which Ajatasattu sought guidance on from the Buddha regarding its benefits.[26]
From: Milindapanha (questions of King Milinda)
(1) A way of living characterized by adherence to ethical and spiritual disciplines aimed at achieving enlightenment.[27]
From: Patipada (path of practice)
(1) The provided text mentions living a holy life as an important aspect of the Dhamma, and the speaker came to pay respect and seek help.[28]
From: Mahavastu (great story)
(1) A holy life includes living according to ethical practices, refraining from harmful actions, and cultivating moral conduct, as demonstrated by Sudipa.[29] (2) The virtuous existence advocated by Maha-Maudgalyayana, encouraging individuals to avoid sin.[30] (3) A term describing the virtuous and disciplined lifestyle practiced by the Buddha and his followers, noted for leading to liberation.[31] (4) A life committed to righteousness, moral living, and spiritual seeking, as promoted by Maha-Maudgalyayana.[32] (5) A religious life dedicated to spiritual practices and teachings.[33]
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) The lifestyle characterized by spiritual practices and moral conduct, often pursued by individuals like arhats in Buddhism.[34]
Hindu concept of 'Holy life'
In Hinduism, a Holy life embodies adherence to moral principles and virtuous living, exemplified by righteous individuals and characters like Yayati, emphasizing spirituality and dedication to ethical conduct, reflecting a profound commitment to holiness.
From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Griffith)
(1) The slain were righteous individuals, indicating their adherence to moral principles, and suggesting their deserved happiness.[35] (2) A virtuous existence dedicated to righteousness, spirituality, and moral integrity.[36]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) A virtuous way of living that includes adherence to religious and spiritual practices, exemplified by various characters like Yayati.[37]
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) A lifestyle dedicated to spiritual practices and virtuous living.[38]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) The life Vasudeva left behind while meditating on the Goddess of the Universe after the death of Krishna.[39]
Jain concept of 'Holy life'
In Jainism, a Holy life embodies dedication to spiritual practices and moral values, often facing criticism, while fostering detachment from worldly desires and a commitment to religious devotion.
From: Sutrakritanga (English translation)
(1) A life devoted to spirituality and religious practice, distancing oneself from worldly attachments.[40] (2) A life dedicated to spiritual practices and moral principles, often subject to criticism from others.[41]
The concept of Holy life in local and regional sources
Holy life embodies the commitment to adhere to Buddhist moral principles, emphasizing non-violence and inclusivity, transcending social status, and serving as a guiding ethos for living harmoniously with oneself and others.
From: Bede's Ecclesiastical History of England
(1) A life characterized by spiritual devotion and adherence to religious principles, exemplified by the character Herebert.[42] (2) The virtuous and pious existence led by both Earconwald and Ethelburg, characterized by care for their communities.[43]
From: Triveni Journal
(1) The commitment to live in accordance with Buddhist principles of morality and non-violence, applicable to all without discrimination based on social status.[44]
From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda
(1) This refers to the way of living where one performs only holy acts, and the mind is always fixed on the wickedness of others, and the person sees only sin.[45]