Significance of Mental discipline
Mental discipline encompasses a variety of practices aimed at controlling and focusing the mind across different philosophies and traditions. According to Purana, it involves concentration on Lord Krishna for spiritual realization, while Vedanta emphasizes mind management essential for peace and liberation. In Buddhist contexts, it includes contemplation and meditation, contributing to deeper states of awareness. Furthermore, mental discipline is defined as self-regulation and the cultivation of a focused mind in both Mahayana and Theravada teachings, promoting moral behavior and mental stability.
Synonyms: Mental toughness, Self-control, Willpower, Focus, Concentration, Self-discipline, Self-regulation, Perseverance, Determination, Resilience
In Dutch: Mentale discipline; In Finnish: Henkinen kurinalaisuus; In Spanish: Disciplina mental; In German: Mentale Disziplin; In Malay: Disiplin mental; In Swedish: Mental disciplin; In French: Discipline mentale
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Mental discipline'
Mental discipline in Buddhism encompasses controlling the mind to achieve concentration and meditation, fostering self-regulation, promoting humility, and cultivating mental strength to avoid negative behaviors, ultimately leading to deeper states of jhana and samadhi.
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) The state of being mentally stable and controlled, particularly associated with the practice of jhana.[1] (2) The cultivation of mental strength required to prevent thoughts and actions that lead to evil behavior.[2]
From: Maha Buddhavamsa—The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) The rigorous training of the mind required to achieve deeper states of meditation and contemplation.[3]
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) A form of self-regulation and reflection that the ascetic practices, considering virtues over personal honors.[4] (2) A practice aimed at governing one’s thoughts and feelings to maintain humility and avoid pride.[5] (3) The practice of controlling and focusing the mind (cittaniyama) that contributes to the production of samadhis.[6]
Hindu concept of 'Mental discipline'
Mental discipline in Hinduism emphasizes maintaining a focused mind for spiritual pursuits, concentrating on Lord Krishna, and controlling one’s thoughts, which are essential for achieving peace and liberation, reflecting its importance across spiritual practices.
From: Mandukya Upanishad (Gaudapa Karika and Shankara Bhashya)
(1) The practice of controlling and managing the mind, regarded as essential by certain Yogis for achieving peace and liberation.[7]
The concept of Mental discipline in local and regional sources
Mental discipline encompasses the training of the mind through practices like meditation and mindfulness, fostering clarity and balance. It emphasizes focus, control over thoughts and emotions, and achieving self-oblivion, crucial for personal development.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) The practice of controlling one's thoughts and emotions, as taught by the Buddha, to cultivate a peaceful and focused mind.[8] (2) An idea associated with the primitive Buddhas, representing the attainment of a high state of self-oblivion.[9] (3) The practice of training the mind through meditation and mindfulness to attain clarity and wisdom.[10] (4) A course of thought and practice emphasized in both eastern and western philosophies to achieve a balanced outlook.[11] (5) The ability to maintain focus and control over one’s thoughts and behaviors, often lacking in modern individuals compared to apes.[12]