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Significance of Transformation

Transformation, as outlined in various philosophical and religious contexts, signifies profound changes in form, identity, and spiritual essence. In Jainism, it embodies physical and spiritual evolution, such as Nala's transformation from a hunchback to a divine figure. Similar themes recur across South Asia, Vaishnavism, and other traditions, where characters undergo significant changes to navigate challenges or attain enlightenment. Ultimately, transformation highlights the continual evolution of the self, emphasizing deeper understanding, growth, and the retention of core identity amid change.1
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Synonyms: Change, Alteration, Conversion, Metamorphosis, Modification, Transmutation, Evolution, Progression., Adjustment, Revolution

In German: Transformation; In French: Transformation; In Dutch: Transformatie; In Finnish: Muutos; In Spanish: 罢谤补苍蝉蹿辞谤尘补肠颈贸苍; In Swedish: Omvandling; In Malay: Transformasi

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

Buddhist concept of 'Transformation'

Buddhism Books

In Buddhism, Transformation encompasses various processes such as changing forms through magic, Bodhisattva development toward enlightenment, and manifestations to assist beings, highlighting unity, wisdom, and the nature of reality in spiritual growth.

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

From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra

(1) The various forms and methods through which the bodhisattva manifests in order to aid beings in their spiritual progress.[1] (2) The process by which the Buddha converts the universe into something precious and ornamented.[2] (3) The ability to change form based on enlightened wisdom and compassion, as per the Bodhisattva's vow to aid beings.[3] (4) The various manifestations and changes the bodhisattva can invoke to help beings practice good and develop positively.[4] (5) The miraculous change of the shramaneras into old men in response to the danapati's views.[5]

From: Lankavatara Sutra

(1) The various manifestations or appearances of reality that arise from the perceptions shaped by consciousness and ignorance.[6] (2) The process through which a Bodhisattva develops and matures in understanding toward enlightenment.[7] (3) The change that occurs in forms and perceptions, discussed in relation to philosophical views and the nature of reality.[8]

From: Mahavastu (great story)

(1) The process by which Yashoda changed form through his magic powers, illustrating mastery over physicality.[9]

From: Shurangama Sutra (with commentary) (English)

(1) The process of change that occurs when one embraces essential truth and progresses towards wisdom.[10]

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.

Hindu concept of 'Transformation'

Hinduism Books

Transformation in Hinduism encompasses processes of change that maintain one's essence, symbolizing shifts from the ordinary to extraordinary, such as the ocean's metamorphosis and personal evolution through spiritual practices and rebirth, impacting identity and consciousness.

Significance in Vedanta (school of philosophy):
Vedanta Books

From: Taittiriya Upanishad Bhashya Vartika

(1) The process through which something changes form while retaining its essential nature; referenced in the discussion of effects and their causes.[11] (2) The process of change that occurs in an object over time.[12] (3) A change in form or state, which is considered one of the possible results of karma relevant to the topic of liberation.[13]

From: Chandogya Upanishad (english Translation)

(1) The process of change that occurs as a result of spiritual practices, leading to an enhanced state of being and consciousness.[14] (2) The profound change that takes place when one attains Self-knowledge, fully realizing their true nature and essence.[15]

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 Purana and Itihasa (epic history):
Purana Books

From: Mahabharata (English)

(1) Refers to the changes in identity and spiritual status through various acts of righteousness.[16] (2) The process of changing form or state, particularly in the context of rebirth based on one's actions.[17] (3) The process of changing one's physical form, as experienced by the Apsaras in this context.[18]

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

(1) The process through which Suchi changes forms, signifying a transition in her spiritual journey.[19] (2) The gradual changes that Lila underwent through numerous births across various life forms and states of existence.[20]

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: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)

(1) Change or alteration; indicates that Shri Gurudeva's appearance remained consistent, signifying his divine nature.[21]

From: Tiruvaymoli (Thiruvaimozhi): English translation

(1) A state of change, referring to the evolution of a character or identity in a divine context.[22]

From: Chaitanya Bhagavata

(1) The process described in the text whereby the salty ocean changes into an ocean of nectar, symbolizing a shift from something ordinary to something extraordinary.[23]

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 Yoga (school of philosophy):
Yoga Books

From: Yoga-sutras (Vedanta Commentaries)

(1) A significant change in form, appearance, nature, or character, particularly in the context of an individual's evolution.[24]

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).

Jain concept of 'Transformation'

Jainism Books

Transformation in Jainism signifies a profound change from one state to another, exemplified by Nala's transformation from a hunchback to divine form, emphasizing both physical and spiritual evolution while maintaining the soul's essential nature.

Significance in Jainism (general):

From: Bhagavati-sutra (Viyaha-pannatti)

(1) The act of changing from one state or form to another; highlights the core theme of the cloud's ability to change shape and form.[25]

From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra

(1) The physical and spiritual change that Nala undergoes, first as a hunchback and then reverting to his divine form.[26]

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 Transformation in local and regional sources

History Books

Transformation is a comprehensive concept encompassing changes over time, identity shifts, spiritual growth, and fundamental self-renewal. It is central to narratives where characters undergo profound alterations to fulfill their destinies and navigate life's challenges.

Significance in India history and geography:

From: Triveni Journal

(1) The process through which Sundari evolves from a lover to a dedicated follower of the monastic way, embracing a new purpose in life.[27] (2) The process of significant spiritual change and growth, leading individuals to evolve beyond their current limitations.[28]

From: History of Science in South Asia

(1) Transformation is a general process, governed by time, and vayas is conceived as part of this general process, and it is a key concept in understanding the changes that occur with age.[29]

Significance in South Asia:
South Asia Books

From: Village Folk-tales of Ceylon (Sri Lanka), vol. 1-3

(1) The process by which the Turtle becomes a Prince through the help of divine beings, exploring themes of identity and change.[30] (2) The central theme of the narrative, where characters change forms to navigate challenges and fulfill their fates.[31]

Plural form: Transformations.