Significance of Intrinsic nature
Intrinsic nature refers to the essential qualities or characteristics that define phenomena across various philosophical traditions. In Buddhism and Mahayana thought, it often emphasizes the emptiness and lack of fixed qualities in beings and dharmas. Vaishnavism discusses intrinsic nature in the context of true essence, particularly relating to divine energy and bhakti. Within Purana, it highlights the essence of the soul and its connection to the supreme soul. Each perspective provides insights into the fundamental nature of existence, emphasizing the interplay of inherent qualities and perceived reality.
Synonyms: Essential quality, Inherent nature, Core attribute, Essence, Core, Fundamental quality, Inherent quality, True nature, Inherent character, Basic nature
In Dutch: Intrinsieke aard; In Finnish: Sisäinen luonne; In Spanish: Naturaleza intrÃnseca; In German: Intrinsische Natur
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Intrinsic nature'
Intrinsic nature in Buddhism refers to the fundamental essence of beings and phenomena, often considered empty or non-existent. This concept emphasizes the absence of fixed qualities, leading to insights about emptiness and the transformative potential of practice.
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) The essential characteristics or qualities that a thing is believed to inherently possess.[1] (2) The inherent qualities or characteristics that define a dharma; the concept that all dharmas lack such existence leads to understanding emptiness.[2] (3) The fundamental quality or essence an object is believed to possess; according to the text, it is non-existent in the notions to be discarded.[3] (4) The fundamental essence or true reality of beings, which is considered to be empty in the context of spiritual teachings.[4] (5) The fundamental essence of beings and dharmas, which is realized through deep insight and the elimination of ignorance.[5]
From: Shurangama Sutra (with commentary) (English)
(1) A term referring to the inherent qualities of phenomena, emphasizing how they can be conditioned and transformed through practice.[6]
From: A Manual of Abhidhamma
(1) Nibbana is onefold according to its intrinsic nature, denoting its essential quality as a unique and ultimate state.[7] (2) This refers to the inherent qualities of an object that determine its desirability or undesirability, independent of individual temperament.[8]
From: The Great Chariot
(1) The essential quality or essence of phenomena that remains pure and undisturbed, as described in the Lankavatara Sutra.[9]
Hindu concept of 'Intrinsic nature'
Intrinsic nature in Hinduism encompasses the essential qualities inherent to entities, influencing both spirituality and understanding. It highlights true essence beyond superficial appearances, guiding practitioners toward deeper devotion and realization of the Supreme and personal identities.
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) The essential quality or characteristic of something as it truly is, particularly in the context of bhakti.[10] (2) The meaning of prakriti, representing the true, natural essence of the divine energy.[11] (3) The fundamental qualities or characteristics inherent to the object's essence, influencing the practitioner's experience.[12] (4) the essential quality or character of something, specifically relating to Tapoloka[13]
From: Bhajana-Rahasya
(1) The fundamental characteristics or inherent qualities of jiva-shakti and maya-shakti as discussed in the context of the Absolute Truth.[14] (2) The inherent qualities and fundamental essence of something, indicating the essential characteristics that define the nature of the holy name.[15] (3) The fundamental characteristics and essence of bhava as described in the context of Bhakti-rasamrita-sindhu.[16] (4) The true essence of an individual or the Supreme Lord that is realized when one engages in devotional service.[17]
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) The inherent characteristics of the senses that are often aligned with human suffering.[18] (2) The fundamental essence of the soul, which is connected to the supreme soul beyond the material existence.[19] (3) The inherent qualities or essences of the senses that lead to misery.[20] (4) The fundamental qualities and characteristics of things that the devotee contemplates to avoid being misled by superficial appearances.[21]
From: Kamashastra Discourse (Life in Ancient India)
(1) The fundamental qualities of women as outlined in the first sayaka, including various spiritual attributes.[22]
From: Brahma Sutras (Shankaracharya)
(1) This phrase describes the fundamental qualities of letters, which, according to the text, are not the cause of the differences in how they are apprehended.[23]