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Significance of Kalpa

Kalpa is a significant concept across various philosophies, particularly in Buddhism and Jainism, reflecting extensive periods in cosmic time. In Buddhism, it denotes vast epochs used to describe cycles of existence, often equated with the lifespan of Buddhas or referring to immense durations where spiritual achievements occur. Jainism also employs Kalpa to signify cosmic cycles, defining the time periods for rebirth and spiritual hierarchy. Overall, Kalpa illustrates the cyclical nature of time, creation, and spiritual evolution within these traditions.1
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Synonyms: Aeon, Epoch, Era, Age

In Dutch: Kalpa; In German: Kalpa; In Finnish: Kalpa; In Spanish: Kalpa; In Swedish: Kalpa; In Malay: Kalpa; In French: Kalpa

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Buddhist concept of 'Kalpa'

Buddhism Books

Kalpa in Buddhism signifies extensive cosmic periods or eons, reflecting vast time scales related to spiritual practices, creation cycles, suffering, and the Bodhisattva's journey toward enlightenment, often representing immeasurable spans in Buddhist cosmology.

Significance in Mahayana (major branch of Buddhism):
Mahayana Books

From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra

(1) An immense period of time used in Buddhist cosmology; the bodhisattva can manipulate the perception of time, treating extensive durations as mere moments.[1] (2) A vast period of time in Buddhist cosmology, indicating the extensive nature of the Buddhas' commitments to their teachings and beings.[2] (3) Eons or vast periods of time; used to articulate the rarity of Buddhas across time.[3] (4) A term referring to vast periods of time in Buddhist cosmology, during which the Buddha accumulated merit through veneration.[4] (5) An extended period or epoch, which in some contexts signifies an entire lifetime for certain beings.[5]

From: Shurangama Sutra (with commentary) (English)

(1) An astronomical unit of time in Buddhist cosmology, often used to denote extensive periods through which beings endure suffering.[6] (2) Units of time in Buddhist cosmology, used to illustrate the lengthy processes of production, dwelling, change, and extinction, where one kalpa equals 139,600 years.[7] (3) An astronomical time unit used in Buddhist cosmology, illustrating the vastness of time.[8] (4) A vast period of time used in Buddhist cosmology, often referring to eons or ages over which the cycle of birth and death occurs.[9] (5) A measure of time in Buddhist cosmology that signifies immense periods associated with the cycles of existence.[10]

From: Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva fundamental vow sutra

(1) An extremely long period in Buddhist cosmology used to signify vast expanses of time.[11] (2) An immense period of time used in Buddhism to signify a cosmic cycle; often represents ages of existence.[12] (3) A measure of time in Buddhist cosmology, representing vast periods through which suffering can occur in Avici Hell.[13] (4) An immeasurable span of time in Buddhist cosmology, often used to describe the extensive period across which various events and vows occur.[14]

From: The gods of northern Buddhism

(1) An extensive period or cycle in Buddhist cosmology, spanning thousands of years or aeons.[15] (2) A large period of time used in Buddhist cosmology, signifying an age or cosmic cycle.[16]

From: Mahayana Mahaparinirvana Sutra

(1) A long period or eon in Buddhist cosmology, representing vast time scales.[17] (2) A long period of time in Buddhist cosmology, often used to signify vast epochs.[18]

From: Mahavastu (great story)

(1) Kalpas are vast periods of time in Buddhist cosmology, often in the order of billions of years, used to describe the cycles of existence.[19]

From: 础产丑颈诲丑补谤尘补办辞艣补

(1) Kalpa is an eon or long period in which cyclic processes of creation and destruction occur consistently.[20]

Mahayana is a major branch of Buddhism focusing on the path of a Bodhisattva (spiritual aspirants/ enlightened beings). Extant literature is vast and primarely composed in the Sanskrit language. There are many sutras of which some of the earliest are the various Prajnaparamita sutras.

Significance in Theravada (major branch of Buddhism):
Theravada Books

From: Vinaya (3): The Cullavagga

(1) A long period of time in Buddhist cosmology, often associated with cycles of existence and rebirth, referenced here in the context of suffering or merit.[21] (2) A long, indefinite period of time in Buddhist cosmology, often associated with suffering for those who fail to overcome evil conditions.[22]

From: Milindapanha (questions of King Milinda)

(1) A vast period of time, often used in Buddhist cosmology to describe the cycles of existence or the life span of a world.[23]

Theravada is a major branch of Buddhism having the the Pali canon (tipitaka) as their canonical literature, which includes the vinaya-pitaka (monastic rules), the sutta-pitaka (Buddhist sermons) and the abhidhamma-pitaka (philosophy and psychology).

Significance in Buddhism (general):

From: The Great Chariot

(1) A kalpa is an extensive period of time during which no virtuous seeds are planted when one remains in deep meditative states.[24] (2) Eons or vast periods of time used in the context of spiritual practices and achievements in the Buddhist tradition.[25] (3) A vast cosmic cycle, or era in the context of Buddhist cosmology, during which the conditions of beings change.[26]

Significance in Tibetan Buddhism (Vajrayana or tantric Buddhism):
Tibetan Buddhism Books

From: Blue Annals (deb-ther sngon-po)

(1) A term used to denote a cosmic period in Hindu and Buddhist cosmology, relevant to the historical context of Tibet.[27]

Tibetan Buddhism includes schools such as Nyingma, Kadampa, Kagyu and Gelug. Their primary canon of literature is divided in two broad categories: The Kangyur, which consists of Buddha鈥檚 words, and the Tengyur, which includes commentaries from various sources. Esotericism and tantra techniques (vajrayana) are collected indepently.

Hindu concept of 'Kalpa'

Hinduism Books

Kalpa in Hinduism symbolizes an extensive cosmic cycle marking creation and dissolution, encompassing significant timeframes like Brahma's day, highlighting the cyclical nature of existence and the evolutionary processes of the universe.

Significance in Purana and Itihasa (epic history):
Purana Books

From: Vishnu Purana

(1) An extensive duration of time in Hindu cosmology, during which the universe exists and undergoes cycles of creation and dissolution.[28] (2) A vast time cycle in which the cosmic phenomena and existence are organized and occurs within Hindu cosmology.[29] (3) An immense period of time in Hindu cosmology which Dhruva is promised to sustain his exalted position.[30] (4) A vast time cycle in Hindu cosmology comprising a thousand ages or fourteen Manvantaras.[31] (5) A day of Brahma, marking significant periods in the cycles of creation and destruction in Hindu cosmology.[32]

From: Laghu-yoga-vasistha

(1) A vast period of time in Hindu cosmology, marking the cycles of creation and destruction.[33] (2) A long period of time in Hindu cosmology, which reflects the vastness of time and spiritual endeavors.[34] (3) A cosmic cycle or period in which the universe undergoes creation and dissolution.[35] (4) An eternity or a cycle in Hindu cosmology, often associated with creation and destruction.[36] (5) An extensive period of time, used in this context to imply that the perception of time can be altered by the mind's state.[37]

From: Devi Bhagavata Purana

(1) A vast period of time in Hindu cosmology, often associated with creation and dissolution cycles of the universe.[38] (2) A cycle of creation and destruction within Hindu cosmology, indicating a time period that ends with the destruction of the universe.[39] (3) A period or cycle in Hindu cosmology, referenced in the context of universal dissolution feared by the Danavas.[40] (4) Rules and guidelines specified in sacred texts for conducting rituals and ceremonies.[41] (5) An extensive period in cosmic time during which the Universe remains sustained by the divine.[42]

From: Mahabharata (English)

(1) A cycle of creation and destruction, representing a vast period in the cosmic timeline.[43] (2) A vast period of time associated with creation cycles in Hindu cosmology, often enumerated in millions of years.[44] (3) A vast period in Hindu cosmology, marking one cycle of creation and destruction of the universe.[45] (4) A cosmic cycle representing a complete cycle of creation and destruction in Hindu philosophy.[46]

From: Harivamsha Purana

(1) A vast cosmic time cycle encompassing Brahma's day, equivalent to one day in the life of Brahma, consisting of a huge number of years.[47] (2) A vast period in Hindu cosmology, involving cycles of creation and dissolution, referenced in the context of time measurement.[48] (3) A vast period in Hindu cosmology, reflecting the cycle of creation and dissolution of the universe.[49]

From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4

(1) A cosmic cycle of creation and destruction, indicating the vast time scales involved in mythological events.[50] (2) A significant cosmic cycle in Hindu cosmology, representing a day of Brahma.[51]

From: Markandeya Purana

(1) Eons or cycles of time in Hindu cosmology, during which creation and dissolution occur repeatedly.[52] (2) An expansive time period in Hindu cosmology representing a cycle of creation and dissolution, signifying the recurring nature of Brahma's creative acts.[53]

From: Bhagavadgita

(1) A significant duration in cosmic time, marking cycles of creation and dissolution.[54]

From: Garuda Purana

(1) A vast period of time in Hindu cosmology during which the universe undergoes cycles of creation and destruction.[55]

The Purana refers to Sanskrit literature preserving ancient India鈥檚 vast cultural history, including historical legends, religious ceremonies, various arts and sciences. The eighteen mahapuranas total over 400,000 shlokas (metrical couplets) and date to at least several centuries BCE.

Significance in Vaishnavism (Vaishava dharma):
Vaishnavism Books

From: Garga Samhita (English)

(1) Extended epochs in Hindu cosmology, representing vast periods of time that encompass cycles of creation and destruction.[56] (2) A term denoting a long period of time, often used in a cosmic context, symbolizing the vastness of time.[57]

From: Chaitanya Bhagavata

(1) A long period in the cycles of creation mentioned in Vedic literature when knowledge was revealed.[58]

From: Bhajana-Rahasya

(1) one day of Brahma.[59]

From: Srila Gurudeva (The Supreme Treasure)

(1) A cycle of creation in Hindu cosmology during which Lord Vishnu manifests the universe and its components.[60]

From: Sri Krishna-Chaitanya

(1) A time cycle in Hindu cosmology, equivalent to one day of Brahma, during which various manifestations or events unfold, including the descent of Avataras.[61]

From: Haribhakti-sudhodaya

(1) A cycle of creation and destruction in the universe, consisting of thousands of years.[62]

From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)

(1) Cosmic cycles which differentiate events and narratives as explained within the context of the scripture.[63]

Vaishnava or vaishnavism (vaishnavism) represents a tradition of Hinduism worshipping Vishnu as the supreme Lord. Similar to the Shaktism and Shaivism traditions, Vaishnavism also developed as an individual movement, famous for its exposition of the dashavatara (鈥榯en avatars of Vishnu鈥�).

Significance in Vedanta (school of philosophy):
Vedanta Books

From: Brahma Sutras (Ramanuja)

(1) A vast period of time in Hindu cosmology, often referenced in the context of cycles of creation and dissolution.[64] (2) A period in which certain adrishtas may undergo maturation before they can contribute to the creation or destruction of the world.[65] (3) A cosmic cycle in Hindu cosmology, indicating a long period in which the universe is created, sustained, and destroyed.[66]

From: Prashna Upanishad (Madhva commentary)

(1) A cosmic cycle of creation, preservation, and dissolution.[67]

From: Thirty minor Upanishads

(1) The methodical approach to the rituals and creation aspects as stated to arise from the great Being.[68]

From: Taittiriya Upanishad

(1) A period in Hindu cosmology marking the cycle of creation and dissolution, during which the jiva's existence is questioned.[69]

Vedanta refers to a school of orthodox Hindu philosophy (astika), drawing its subject-matter from the Upanishads. There are a number of sub-schools of Vedanta, however all of them expound on the basic teaching of the ultimate reality (brahman) and liberation (moksha) of the individual soul (atman).

Significance in Vastushastra (architecture):
Vastushastra Books

From: Vastu-shastra (Introduction to Indian architecture)

(1) A term referencing the foundational texts of Hindu tradition that influence the development of architecture and its theoretical underpinnings in practice.[70] (2) The sixth Vedanga that provides rules for sacrificial acts and rituals, which are essential in the context of both architecture and Vedic practices.[71] (3) A cyclic period after which creation is absorbed back into the eternal entities described in the text.[72]

Vastushastra refers to the ancient Indian science (shastra) of architecture (vastu), dealing with topics such architecture, sculpture, town-building, fort building and various other constructions. Vastu also deals with the philosophy of the architectural relation with the cosmic universe.

Significance in Ayurveda (science of life):
Ayurveda Books

From: Sushruta Samhita, Volume 6: Uttara-tantra

(1) The classification of certain preparations in Ayurvedic medicine, particularly those made from herbal sources.[73]

From: Sushruta Samhita, volume 1: Sutrasthana

(1) A section in the Sushruta Samhita focusing on the symptoms and treatments for various medical conditions, including snake bites.[74]

Ayurveda is a branch of Indian science dealing with medicine, herbalism, taxology, anatomy, surgery, alchemy and related topics. Traditional practice of Ayurveda in ancient India dates back to at least the first millenium BC. Literature is commonly written in Sanskrit using various poetic metres.

Significance in Dharmashastra (religious law):
Dharmashastra Books

From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi

(1) A term referring to a category of texts concerning rituals and subsidiary sciences related to Vedic study.[75]

From: Baudhayana Dharmasutra

(1) A term for the procedures or rituals in Vedic texts, of which the Baudhayana Dharma-sutra covers various subdivisions.[76]

Dharmashastra contains the instructions (shastra) regarding religious conduct of livelihood (dharma), ceremonies, jurisprudence (study of law) and more. It is categorized as smriti, an important and authoritative selection of books dealing with the Hindu lifestyle.

Significance in Rasashastra (chemistry and alchemy):
Rasashastra Books

From: Rasa Jala Nidhi, vol 1: Initiation, Mercury and Laboratory

(1) A vast period in Hindu cosmology that involves cycles of creation and dissolution of the universe.[77]

From: Rasa Jala Nidhi, vol 5: Treatment of various afflictions

(1) In Hindu cosmology, it refers to a long period of time, often related to cycles of creation and destruction.[78]

Rasashastra is an important branch of Ayurveda, specialising in chemical interactions with herbs, metals and minerals. Some texts combine yogic and tantric practices with various alchemical operations. The ultimate goal of Rasashastra is not only to preserve and prolong life, but also to bestow wealth upon humankind.

Significance in Vyakarana (Sanskrit grammar):
Vyakarana Books

From: Vakyapadiya of Bhartrihari

(1) An extensive cosmic cycle in Hindu cosmology that equates to a day of Brahma, encompassing vast eons.[79]

Vyakarana refers to Sanskrit grammar and represents one of the six additional sciences (vedanga) to be studied along with the Vedas. Vyakarana concerns itself with the rules of Sanskrit grammar and linguistic analysis in order to establish the correct context of words and sentences.

Significance in Yoga (school of philosophy):
Yoga Books

From: Yoga-sutras (with Vyasa and Vachaspati Mishra)

(1) A duration of time measure used in the context of divine beings' lifetimes.[80]

Yoga is originally considered a branch of Hindu philosophy (astika), but both ancient and modern Yoga combine the physical, mental and spiritual. Yoga teaches various physical techniques also known as asanas (postures), used for various purposes (eg., meditation, contemplation, relaxation).

Significance in Pancaratra (worship of N膩r膩ya峁嘺):
Pancaratra Books

From: Parama Samhita (English translation)

(1) A vast cosmic time cycle, representing a day of Brahma, used to measure long periods of creation and dissolution in the universe.[81]

Pancaratra represents a tradition of Hinduism where Narayana is revered and worshipped. Closeley related to Vaishnavism, the Pancaratra literature includes various Agamas and tantras incorporating many Vaishnava philosophies.

Jain concept of 'Kalpa'

Jainism Books

In Jainism, Kalpa signifies a cosmic cycle involving various rebirths and realms, structured hierarchically, marking significant periods for spiritual evolution, ultimately depicting the expansive nature of time and divine experiences in existence.

Significance in Jainism (general):

From: Tattvartha Sutra (with commentary)

(1) An era or cosmic cycle in Hindu cosmology during which the creation and destruction of the universe occurs, referenced for the Sanatkumara and Mahendra.[82] (2) A period of time in Jain cosmology that is characterized by specific lifetimes and conditions for beings.[83] (3) Kalpa refers to the sixteen heavens that exist before the graiveyaka, as per the text, highlighting a sequence in spiritual or cosmic hierarchy.[84] (4) The 'kalpa' refers to various celestial constructions that are arranged one above the other, indicating their organized structure.[85] (5) A specific period or era in which the deva experience different forms of pleasure and indulgence.[86]

From: Bhagavati-sutra (Viyaha-pannatti)

(1) The time periods within which certain poisonous beings are said to be born.[87] (2) An indefinite period or cycle of existence where certain beings are reborn, as mentioned in the context of high devotion.[88] (3) Kalpas, which refer to cosmic cycles or realms, are indicated to touch an unlimited portion of dharmastikaya.[89]

From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra

(1) An expansive metaphor showing the unreliability of human judgement in understanding true spiritual worth.[90] (2) The mythical period that spans vast amounts of time, referenced in the context of the narrative's timeline.[91]

From: Sutrakritanga (English translation)

(1) A significant period in time, possibly referring to a cosmological cycle, beyond which beings may rise or fall in their spiritual status.[92]

From: Uttaradhyayana Sutra

(1) Periods in cosmic time, during which the Vaimanika gods are said to be born and live in association with various realms.[93]

Jainism is an Indian religion of Dharma whose doctrine revolves around harmlessness (ahimsa) towards every living being. The two major branches (Digambara and Svetambara) of Jainism stimulate self-control (or, shramana, 鈥榮elf-reliance鈥�) and spiritual development through a path of peace for the soul to progess to the ultimate goal.

The concept of Kalpa in local and regional sources

History Books

Kalpa is a unit of time in Hindu cosmology representing cosmic cycles of creation and dissolution, integral to the caturyuga-manvantara-kalpa system, and featured in Sanskrit texts like the Kalyanakaraka and Brihatkhecariprakasha.

Significance in India history and geography:

From: History of Science in South Asia

(1) Kalpa is a term that is used with this meaning in sections on rasayana in various Sanskrit works, such as the Kalyanakaraka, and is also referred to in the Brihatkhecariprakasha.[94] (2) This is a unit of time, which is part of the caturyuga-manvantara-kalpa system, as described in the text.[95]

From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda

(1) Kalpa is a part of the lower knowledge and it represents the sacrificial liturgy, and it is an essential component of the overall understanding described.[96] (2) A concept that, along with Vedantic Prana and 脗kasha, captured Tesla's interest, as it is part of the Vedantic cosmology, as stated in the text.[97]

From: Triveni Journal

(1) A cosmic cycle or epoch in Hindu cosmology, often denoting significant periods of creation and dissolution.[98]

Plural form: Kalpas.