Significance of Ultimate bliss
Ultimate bliss is defined across various spiritual traditions, encapsulating the concept of the highest form of happiness and fulfillment achievable through spiritual liberation. In Jainism, it signifies the joy attained upon liberation from karmic bondage. Vaishnavism highlights the joy experienced in divine service, while Purana emphasizes ecstasy through realization of God. Yoga associates it with perfect joy after moksha, and Vedanta describes it as unity with Parabrahman. In Shaivism and Pancaratra, ultimate bliss represents profound fulfillment and liberation, echoed in Mahayana as the state of nirvana.
Synonyms: Supreme happiness, Perfect contentment, Perfect joy, Pure delight
In Dutch: Ultieme gelukzaligheid; In Finnish: Lopullinen autuus; In Spanish: Felicidad suprema; In German: Ultimative Glückseligkeit; In Malay: Kebahagiaan muktamad; In Swedish: Den ultimata lyckan; In French: Le bonheur ultime
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Ultimate bliss'
Ultimate bliss in Buddhism signifies the profound joy achieved at enlightenment, described as a transient state in the third dhyana, ultimately culminating in nirvana, the aspirational goal of spiritual cessation and cultivation.
From: Shurangama Sutra (with commentary) (English)
(1) The state of nirvana that is the desired outcome of cessation and cultivation on the spiritual path.[1] (2) A state of profound joy that is hypothesized to be transient, as speculated in the context of the third dhyana.[2]
From: Bodhisattvacharyavatara
(1) The final state of supreme joy expected at the level of enlightenment.[3]
Hindu concept of 'Ultimate bliss'
In Hinduism, Ultimate bliss represents the highest state of happiness and fulfillment, achieved through spiritual realization, liberation, and union with Parabrahman, transcending ordinary experiences to attain profound peace and enlightenment.
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) The highest and most profound state of happiness that stems from inner tranquility and spiritual enlightenment.[4] (2) The state of ecstasy and transcendence that one achieves by realizing the pure essence of God.[5] (3) The state of supreme happiness and contentment achieved through the eradication of egoism and desires.[6] (4) The highest state of happiness and fulfillment that one can achieve, often associated with spiritual realization.[7] (5) The highest state of happiness and contentment achievable in nirvana.[8]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) A profound state of joy experienced by Shri Hanuman upon receiving the call from Raghunathaji, highlighting the importance of divine service.[9] (2) The most profound and supreme state of happiness that one aspires to achieve, often sought in both liberation and heavenly existence.[10]
The concept of Ultimate bliss in local and regional sources
Ultimate bliss is described as a significant outcome of the kshetrikarana preparations, highlighting its importance in achieving a heightened spiritual state or fulfillment according to regional beliefs.
From: History of Science in South Asia
(1) The attainment of ultimate bliss is one of the outcomes associated with the kshetrikarana preparations.[11]