Significance of Pure and impure
The concept of Pure and impure in various philosophical traditions emphasizes the distinction between moral integrity and corruption. In Buddhism, it highlights the dual nature of existence, illustrating a dichotomy between suffering (samsara) and liberation (nirvana). Tibetan Buddhism explains it as simultaneous cognition of opposing states, while Vaishnavism focuses on moral implications of actions. In Yoga and Vedanta, these terms depict ethical levels and the essence of Brahman compared to worldly impurities. Similarly, Dharmashastra and Mahayana address purity in social conduct and meditative paths, shaping ethical and spiritual understanding.
Synonyms: Clean, Clear, Untainted, Tainted, Polluted, Unclean, Adulterated
In Dutch: Zuiver en onzuiver; In Finnish: Puhdasta ja ep盲puhdasta; In Spanish: Puro e impuro; In German: Rein und unrein
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Pure and impure'
In Buddhism, "pure" and "impure" characterize paths in meditation, reflecting worldly passions versus liberation. This duality informs the nature of existence, moral integrity, and cognitive perception, underscoring the significance of ethical living within samsara and nirvana.
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) Refers to the states of existence in various universes, affecting how beings perceive and interact with the Dharma.[1] (2) Refers to the classifications of paths in meditation; impure (sasrava) involves worldly passions, while pure (anasrava) leads to liberation from these passions.[2] (3) Descriptions of dharmas based on their quality, whether they lead to wholesome or unwholesome outcomes.[3] (4) The duality of moral and ethical states that the bodhisattva considers in pursuit of wisdom.[4] (5) Describes the characteristics of dharmas, where 'impure' refers to conditioned existence and 'pure' to unconditioned nature.[5]
From: Tattvasangraha [with commentary]
(1) Contradictory concepts referred to in the discourse on whether a single cognition can apprehend opposing characteristics simultaneously.[6] (2) A dichotomy representing two opposing qualities or states that can exist simultaneously in cognition.[7] (3) Used in the text to describe a conceptual incompatibility as opposed to a genuine one, suggesting that even conflicting items can be recognized in simultaneous cognition under specific contexts.[8]
From: The Fo-Sho-Hing-Tsan-King (A Life of Buddha)
(1) A distinction between moral integrity and moral corruption, essential in understanding true religion and ethical living.[9]
Hindu concept of 'Pure and impure'
In Hinduism, "pure" and "impure" denote moral states influenced by actions, the nature of Brahman, personal conduct, and external factors, impacting rituals and spiritual essence, as discussed in various philosophical interpretations, including Lord Gaura's teachings.
From: Chandogya Upanishad (english Translation)
(1) The distinction made between the essence of prana or Brahman, which is pure, and the limitations or adjuncts that create an appearance of impurity.[10]
From: Brihadaranyaka Upanishad
(1) Terms used to describe the qualities of the vital force compared to the organs that are influenced by evil.[11]
From: Brahma Sutras (Shankaracharya)
(1) Differentiation based on the nature of Brahman as pure and the world as impure, impacting their relationship.[12]
From: Sankhayana-grihya-sutra
(1) A distinction recognized in the sacrificial rites, which guides the adherence to the proper conduct and substance during the rituals, invoking divine protection.[13]
From: Vasistha Dharmasutra
(1) The state of moral cleanliness or guilt that is attributed to actions, particularly in relation to the king and his duties.[14]
From: Chaitanya Mangala
(1) Concepts discussed by Lord Gaura that relate to the nature of actions and their moral implications.[15]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) The concept of bhadrabhadra, representing the dichotomy of what is considered clean or morally acceptable versus what is unclean or morally unacceptable.[16]
From: Yoga-sutras (with Vyasa and Vachaspati Mishra)
(1) These terms refer to the states of being that reflect moral and ethical levels of human actions or intentions.[17]
The concept of Pure and impure in local and regional sources
The keyphrase "Pure and impure" represents a broader classical Indian distinction, contrasting the defiled nature of samsara with the ideal state of purity, while transcending solely Buddhist interpretations.
From: History of Science in South Asia
(1) This refers to the opposition that is not simply a Buddhist opposition between a defiled samsara and pure nirvana, but more classically Indian.[18]