Significance of Old age
Old age encompasses a universal condition experienced across various philosophical and religious frameworks, reflecting physical and mental decline that leads to mortality. In Buddhism, it signifies a natural process affecting all beings, while Jainism views it as a consuming force associated with life's inevitable end. Hindu texts portray it as a time of wisdom but also of deterioration and potential emotional grief. Commonly recognized as a stage leading to reflection and potential spiritual liberation, old age is critically important in understanding human existence and the cycle of life.
Synonyms: Senescence, Aging, Twilight years, Seniority, Maturity, Decline, Golden years, Elderly, Advanced age, Later life, Twilight years.
In Dutch: Ouderdom; In Finnish: Vanhuus; In Spanish: Vejez; In German: Alter; In Malay: Usia tua; In Swedish: 脜濒诲别谤诲辞尘; In French: Vieillesse
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Old age'
Old age in Buddhism is viewed as an inevitable phase of life characterized by physical and mental decline, ultimately leading to death. It illustrates the transient nature of existence and serves as a reminder of mortality and suffering.
From: A Discourse on Paticcasamuppada
(1) The later stage of life characterized by a decline in physical and mental capacity, ultimately leading to death.[1] (2) A natural part of human life that philosophers have sought freedom from, as discussed in relation to the attainment of Nibbana.[2] (3) The later stage of life characterized by physical decline and the inevitability of death, which is traced back to a cycle of rebirth.[3] (4) A phase of life that all beings will eventually experience, characterized by physical decline and loss.[4]
From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) Personified as a huntsman named Jara, who represents mortality and the inevitability of death in the narrative.[5] (2) The later stage in Bhaddavatika's life when she could no longer serve the king and lost her previous honour and position.[6]
From: The Doctrine of Paticcasamuppada
(1) The gradual loss of youthfulness and physical decline, considered a companion of all beings since birth.[7] (2) Jara, a phase of decline and suffering following birth, as articulated in the cycles originating from Paticcasamuppada.[8]
From: Milindapanha (questions of King Milinda)
(1) One of the four sufferings addressed in the teachings, representing the decline of life and vitality.[9] (2) One of the ten qualities of the body, representing the inevitable decline that comes with time.[10]
From: Maha Buddhavamsa鈥擳he Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) A universal aspect of existence, highlighted by the charioteer and recognized by Siddhattha as an inevitable phase of life.[11]
From: Vinaya Pitaka (3): Khandhaka
(1) Refers to the later stages of life that can bring about various physical limitations and changes.[12]
From: Vinaya (2): The Mahavagga
(1) The later stage of life when a man enters the Buddhist Order, reflecting a commitment to spiritual practice.[13]
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) Refers to Bahuputtika's life stage when she decided to enter the Sangha and devote herself to spiritual practices.[14]
From: Abhidhamma in Daily Life
(1) The natural process of aging that follows birth, often leading to the eventual occurrence of death.[15]
From: Guide to Tipitaka
(1) One of the three dangers that cannot be avoided by a mother or son.[16]
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) One of the inevitable sufferings associated with rebirth, illustrating the transient nature of existence.[17] (2) One of the three unpleasant realities of life that all beings must face, which is referenced in the context of the teachings of the Buddha.[18] (3) Jara; one of the significant sufferings that bodhisattvas seek to alleviate for all beings.[19] (4) The eventual stage of life where the ascetic seeks to reassure himself and applies exertion to deal with impending suffering.[20]
From: Mahavastu (great story)
(1) The later stage of life, recognized by King Brahmadatta, prompting considerations of succession and legacy.[21] (2) One of the universal truths that the Bodhisattva realized, highlighting the impermanence of life.[22]
From: Shurangama Sutra (with commentary) (English)
(1) The later stage of life marked by physical decline, reduced energy, and increased signs of aging.[23] (2) The stage of life that the great king reflects upon, marked by physical decline and decline in vitality.[24]
From: Lotus Sutra (Saddharma-Pundarika)
(1) A state that causes the monks to feel worn out and leads them to believe they have attained Nirvana.[25]
From: Apadana commentary (Atthakatha)
(1) A concept highlighted by the king as he reflects that all entities, animate and inanimate, experience aging.[26]
From: The Fo-Sho-Hing-Tsan-King (A Life of Buddha)
(1) The condition that manifests as a person ages, involving decay of the body and decline in vitality.[27]
Hindu concept of 'Old age'
In Hinduism, old age symbolizes the inevitable decline and deterioration of the body, representing physical decay and vulnerability. It also signifies a period of accumulated wisdom but ultimately leads to emotional struggles and the approach of death.
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) The stage of life Lila lived under the dread of, characterized by physical infirmities.[28] (2) The later stage of life characterized by physical decline and the inevitability of death, influencing the thoughts and actions of individuals.[29] (3) The later stage of human life characterized by physical decline, loss of vitality, and the inevitability of death.[30] (4) The process that overtakes individuals, leading to physical decline, represented here by the speaker's beard turning to blades of grass.[31] (5) The final stage of life, metaphorically described as the autumn of life, signaling decay and the eventual end of vitality akin to withered leaves.[32]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) Considered a force that diminishes beauty as described in various philosophical reflections.[33] (2) The stage of life that Dhritarashtra has reached, prompting discussions of his retirement.[34] (3) The state of being advanced in years which Dhritarashtra expresses will impact his ability to cope with grief.[35]
From: Gautami Mahatmya
(1) Though synonymous with death for some characters, it is portrayed as a significant aspect of the human experience that embodies wisdom.[36] (2) A condition that afflicts the serpents, prompting concern from their mother and leading to the quest for a remedy.[37] (3) Describes the overwhelming nature of aging and its challenges.[38]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Shastri)
(1) The state of being advanced in years, which King Yayati experiences and wishes to transfer to his son Yadu.[39] (2) A state that has diminished the intellect of King Dasharatha, influencing his decisions and actions.[40]
From: Vishnu Purana
(1) A stage in life characterized by physical infirmities and mental decline, resulting in various kinds of suffering.[41] (2) A stage of life referred to by Vasudeva as Nanda's current period, during which a son is born to him.[42]
From: Markandeya Purana
(1) Old age refers to a stage in life when a person is advanced in years and is demonstrated in the text by Ritadhvaja's resignation of his kingdom.[43] (2) A condition that is absent in the continents mentioned, where the inhabitants live long lives free from deterioration and decline in quality of life.[44]
From: Brihaddharma Purana (abridged)
(1) Described as a daughter of Adharma, representing the inevitable decline that afflicts all living beings.[45]
From: Laghu-yoga-vasistha
(1) The final stage of life marked by decay, disease, and helplessness.[46]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) The stage of life that Cyavana is in, which affects his capabilities and status.[47]
From: Tiruvaymoli (Thiruvaimozhi): English translation
(1) The inevitable decay and decline that accompanies the passage of time and life.[48] (2) A state of being elderly or advanced in years, often associated with various physical and mental changes.[49] (3) A stage of life often associated with decline and decay, which the speaker desires to be freed from.[50] (4) The later stages of life, often associated with physical decline, which may prevent individuals from performing devotional acts.[51] (5) The natural process of aging, highlighting the decline and changes associated with living over time.[52]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) Old age signifies the final stage of life that follows youth, indicating a gradual arrival after all living beings experience childhood and youth.[53] (2) A natural phase of life characterized by decline in physical abilities, which is notably absent in Svarga.[54] (3) A condition of decline that does not exist in the heavenly realm, emphasizing its eternal nature.[55] (4) A state of being that signifies deterioration and decline; one of the conditions from which Shri Hanuman was granted freedom.[56]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) A condition from which the forms of the Supreme Lord remain free; they are eternal and not subject to the typical cycle of life and death.[57] (2) The natural process of aging that affects all living beings, which in the context of the text, is said to not affect the transcendental bodies of Shrivasa and Shri Advaita Prabhu.[58]
From: Bhajana-Rahasya
(1) Described as jara, denotes the natural process of aging, which is one of the consequent conditions of emotional distress.[59] (2) A physical condition that the Supreme Lord releases His devotees from upon surrender.[60]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad Bhashya Vartika
(1) The final stage of life, often associated with decline and vulnerability, contributing to the concept of suffering.[61] (2) A stage in life characterized by the decline of youth, as referenced by the 'damsel of old age' who considers herself accomplished despite her physical decline.[62] (3) A stage in life that is often accompanied by physical decline and the onset of death.[63] (4) The latter stage of a person's life, in which their manner of offering food might be influenced by age-related factors.[64] (5) A state of great disgrace that leads to misery and suffering.[65]
From: Chandogya Upanishad (english Translation)
(1) A natural process of life that is unable to overcome the barrier of the Self, indicating the eternal nature of the Self.[66] (2) A biological condition that causes decay in the body, but not in the inner self or space within the heart.[67] (3) The condition or stage when the physical body becomes aged, leading to decline in vitality.[68]
From: Katha Upanishad with Shankara鈥檚 Commentary
(1) A stage of life characterized by physical decline and associated challenges, often leading to reflection on life's purpose.[69] (2) A stage of life in the worldly realm where individuals typically experience fear and afflictions, contrasting with the carefree existence in heaven.[70]
From: Brahma Sutras (Ramanuja)
(1) A limitation from which the highest divinity is free, suggesting eternal youth or timeliness.[71]
From: Brahma Sutras (Shankaracharya)
(1) The later stage of life that typically follows adulthood, often associated with physical decline and wisdom.[72]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) The later stage of life typically associated with a decline in physical and mental health.[73] (2) A stage in life that may lead to diminished mental capacity, which can render a person incapable of valid transactions.[74] (3) A state that may lead to abandonment, either by the passing of a spouse or due to the neglect of one鈥檚 responsibilities.[75] (4) Specifically points to advanced years in life, which can confer respect, particularly in the case of those in the caste system.[76] (5) Describes individuals, including possibly born slaves, who are no longer able to provide services due to their decrepitude.[77]
From: Sankhayana-grihya-sutra
(1) The later stages of life, often associated with wisdom and experience.[78]
From: Hiranyakesi-grihya-sutra
(1) A state of life the teacher wishes for the boy, denoting longevity and experience.[79]
From: Paraskara-grihya-sutra
(1) A desired state of longevity and life together, often invoked in blessings during rituals.[80]
From: Yoga-sutras (Vedanta Commentaries)
(1) The inevitable decline of the physical body, which does not affect the eternal aspect of the lotus of the heart.[81]
From: Vakyapadiya of Bhartrihari
(1) The condition or stage of life that signifies the later years, characterized by a decline in capacity to fulfill various purposes.[82]
From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)
(1) The inevitable decay of beauty that grieves King Vilasashila, prompting him to seek cessation of aging.[83]
From: Rasa Jala Nidhi, vol 1: Initiation, Mercury and Laboratory
(1) A factor affecting physical health and capability, which is considered in evaluating a metallurgical operator.[84]
From: Hayanaratna: The Jewel of Annual Astrology
(1) This is a time of life, used to describe the knowledge of the times of life.[85]
Jain concept of 'Old age'
In Jainism, old age represents a natural decline marked by physical deterioration, the inevitability of death, and a force consuming the body. It symbolizes a stage characterized by sickness, decline, and the certainty of mortality.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) The later stages of life associated with decline and the inevitable end of existence.[86] (2) Personified as a force consuming the body, representing the inevitable process humans face.[87] (3) The later stage of life marked by physical decline.[88] (4) The reason given by the chamberlain for his delayed delivery of the bath-water.[89]
From: Uttaradhyayana Sutra
(1) The stage of life that diminishes one's vigor and is part of the natural cycle leading to death.[90] (2) The state of being advanced in years, where one may become past help and should not be careless.[91]
From: Naladiyar
(1) A stage of life characterized by sickness and death, seen as a certainty.[92]
The concept of Old age in local and regional sources
Old age encompasses various life stages marked by physical decline, vulnerability, and reflection, while also embodying wisdom and experience. It signifies a natural progression that should be embraced rather than feared, influencing personal and global engagement.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) The later stage of life characterized by the need for rest.[93] (2) A stage of life represented metaphorically by the seventh button in the context of the 'seven ages of man'.[94] (3) A stage in life that is characterized by the decline of physical and mental capabilities, often associated with wisdom and reflection.[95] (4) A stage in life referenced with regard to Niraja's grandfather, marking a period of vulnerability.[96] (5) The later part of life, often associated with declining health and increased vulnerability.[97]
From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda
(1) The later years of life, when scholars like Max M眉ller completed their work on Sanskrit studies, and saw the results of their labor.[98] (2) The text references old age in the context of fear, and that the body becomes crooked, and the skin wrinkles, and the hair whitens, and that it comes on.[99] (3) The later years of a person's life when they have reached a certain point in their lifespan and are considered elderly.[100] (4) The stage in life when men withdraw from the world to study and pray, then go forward spreading the gospel after feeling sanctified.[101] (5) This is a stage of life in which Mazoomdar has become childish.[102]
From: Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints
(1) Time of life when one may experience neglect or hardship, interpreted as a reflection of God's anger.[103] (2) A stage of life mentioned in the text when sensory organs abandon their functions, used as a metaphor for change and abandonment.[104] (3) A stage of life marked by physical decline and weakness, mentioned as having affected the protagonist.[105]
From: Folklore of the Santal Parganas
(1) The time in the man鈥檚 life he contemplated regarding support that would come from his son in the years to come.[106]
From: History of Science in South Asia
(1) Old age, as described in the Carakasamhita, is characterized by the decline of bodily constituents, sense organs, and strength, with a gradual collapse and the prominence of the windy humour, signifying a decline in the body's functions.[107]
The concept of Old age in scientific sources
Old age, typically defined as individuals aged 60 and older, is associated with increased health risks, vulnerability to diseases, and the need for specialized care, reflecting critical physical and cognitive challenges during this life stage.
From: The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences
(1) The condition of being older, which is considered a risk factor associated with the severity of COVID-19 patients.[108] (2) This is a factor that has been established to predict worse outcomes in many diseases, including hepatopancreatobiliary diseases.[109] (3) This refers to the advanced stage of life, often associated with increased health risks.[110] (4) The later stage of life, typically referring to persons aged 60 years and older, often associated with an increased need for assistance.[111]