Significado de Vejez
La vejez es una etapa de la vida que conlleva una serie de declives físicos y mentales, reconocida en múltiples tradiciones como un proceso inevitable. En el budismo, se considera una de las realidades desagradables de la vida. En el hinduismo, se discute su impacto en la espiritualidad, sabiduría y vulnerabilidad. En términos generales, la vejez simboliza el deterioro natural y las limitaciones que surgen con el tiempo, afectando tanto la salud como la capacidad de disfrutar de la vida y exigir un proceso de reflexión y liberación espiritual.
En Inglés: Old age
Tenga en cuenta: Los ejemplos a continuación son sólo para fines ilustrativos y no reflejan una traducción o cita directa. Es su propia responsabilidad verificar la veracidad de los hechos.
El concepto Budista de 'Vejez'
In Buddhism, "Vejez" (aging) signifies a universal condition, a key concept reflecting that all beings, both animate and inanimate, undergo this process of decline [1]. This includes physical decay and loss of vitality, a natural aspect of life that leads to death [2]. It's a phase everyone will experience [3].
In Mahayana, "Vejez" is a universal truth, one of the inevitable sufferings associated with rebirth [4]. It's a time of decline in youth, beauty, and strength, often bringing fear and sorrow . It is a stage the great king reflected upon, highlighting impermanence [5]. This stage is a part of the three unpleasant realities of life [6]. It is something bodhisattvas seek to alleviate [7]. The later stage of life prompts considerations of succession and legacy [8]. It can lead monks to feel worn out [9].
In Theravada, "Vejez" is a natural part of life, following birth and preceding death [10]. Philosophers seek freedom from it in the pursuit of Nibbana [11]. It's characterized by a decline in physical and mental capacity [12]. This is a phase that can bring physical limitations and changes [13]. This can be seen when someone enters the Buddhist Order [14]. It is one of the four sufferings [15]. It's a companion to all beings from birth [16]. The charioteer recognizes this as an inevitable phase of life [17]. It is also one of the three dangers that cannot be avoided [18]. Jara, personified as a huntsman, represents mortality [19]. This is also a time when someone decides to devote themselves to spiritual practices [20]. It is also one of the ten qualities of the body [21].
El concepto Hindú de 'Vejez'
In the context of Hinduism, "Vejez" (old age) is a significant concept, discussed across various scriptures and schools of thought. In Vaishnavism, it's described as *jara*, a natural process of aging that causes emotional distress [22]. It is a physical condition that the Supreme Lord liberates devotees from upon surrender [23]. Old age is the final stage, following youth and childhood, signifying a decline in physical abilities, a state absent in Svarga [24] [25]. It's a state of decline from which Shri Hanuman was freed [26]. The forms of the Supreme Lord are eternally free from this condition [27]. Aging affects all beings, but not the transcendental bodies of Shrivasa and Shri Advaita Prabhu [28]. It is decay and decline [29], a state associated with physical and mental changes [30]. Some seek freedom from this stage [31], which may hinder devotional acts [32]. It highlights the decline and changes over time [33].
In the Puranas, it is considered a force diminishing beauty [34]. It's the stage Dhritarashtra reached, prompting retirement discussions [35]. Dhritarashtra's advanced years will impact his ability to cope with grief [36]. Cyavana's capabilities and status are affected by this stage [37]. It brings physical infirmities and mental decline, leading to suffering [38]. Vasudeva refers to Nanda's current period as this stage [39]. Ritadhvaja's resignation of his kingdom demonstrates this stage [40]. This condition is absent in certain continents [41]. Lila lived under the dread of it [42]. The later stage of life is characterized by physical decline and the inevitability of death [43] [44]. It influences thoughts and actions [45]. The process of aging leads to decline, exemplified by a speaker's beard turning grey [46]. It's metaphorically described as the autumn of life, signaling decay [47]. It represents the decline of vitality and onset of vulnerability [48]. It is the natural process of becoming frail and weakened [49]. This stage brings the awareness of mortality [50]. The final stage is marked by decay, disease, and helplessness [51]. It is also associated with wisdom and experience [52]. King Yayati sought to transfer his senility . It afflicts serpents, prompting a search for a remedy [53]. The challenges of aging are overwhelming [54]. It impairs the ability to experience happiness . Worship is advised before it's too late . It causes emotional torment from worldly attachments . Yayati sought to exchange it for his son's youth . Dhanvantari was born to king Dirghatapas after his penance .
It symbolizes a decline in spiritual awareness, needing rejuvenation . It is characterized by physical decline, leading to disease . Human beings became free from it due to Yayati's influence . It's associated with the deterioration of the body . King Yayati wished to exchange it for youth . It's the deterioration of physical health, resulting in illness . It brought a realization to Mohini about the transience of wealth . Yayati desired to exchange this state for youth . It is personified, representing inevitable decline . It explains the king’s lack of wisdom . It afflicts the body, resulting from actions . Characters recognize it as a cue to seek spiritual liberation . Cyavana's condition led to misunderstandings . It's a deterioration similar to an old house . It brings miseries faced by Atman . It brings decay and ailments, often disparaged for hindering penance . It is expressed as a curse reflecting the consequences of one's actions . It can render individuals incapable . It befell Satyasandha and Karnotpala . King Viduratha faces the challenges of aging . Sage Sucarita desired divine assistance . It represents decline, contrasted by themes of rejuvenation . It is a precursor to death, diminishing vitality . It is associated with reflection and spiritual fulfillment . Sages attained the vision of the Linga at Vriddhaprabhasa . It is described as a daughter of Adharma [55]. King Yayati experiences it and wishes to transfer it [56]. It diminished King Dasharatha's intellect [57]. It is represented by Jara . It is a challenging time for those attached to desires . Shukra made it transferable at Yayati's request .
In Natyashastra, it's a life stage with decreased vitality, relevant in portraying characters' emotions . It is a force causing deterioration in abilities . In Kavya, it is the decay of beauty [58]. In Yoga, it is the decline of the physical body, which doesn't affect the eternal aspect of the heart [59]. In Jyotisha, it describes the knowledge of the times of life [60]. In Vyakarana, it signifies the later years [61].
In Vedanta, it follows adulthood, associated with decline and wisdom [62]. It leads to reflection on life's purpose [63]. It is a source of fear and afflictions in the worldly realm [64]. It cannot overcome the Self [65]. It causes decay in the body, but not the inner self [66]. The physical body becomes aged, leading to decline [67]. The highest divinity is free from this limitation [68]. It contributes to suffering [69]. The 'damsel of old age' considers herself accomplished despite her decline [70]. It is often accompanied by physical decline and the onset of death [71]. Manner of offering food might be influenced by it [72]. It leads to great disgrace, misery, and suffering [73]. In Dharmashastra, it is associated with wisdom and experience [74]. Longevity and life together are often invoked in blessings [75]. The teacher wishes for longevity and experience for the boy [76]. It is typically associated with a decline in physical and mental health [77]. It can lead to diminished mental capacity, affecting transactions [78]. It may lead to abandonment [79]. It confers respect [80]. Those unable to provide services are described [81]. Parents' elderly stage highlights the responsibility of care [82]. It is marked by physical decline and invites contemplation of retiring from responsibilities [83]. The king reflects on his life's achievements [84]. In Rasashastra, it affects physical health and capability [85]. In Kavyashastra, it is a burden .
El concepto Jainista de 'Vejez'
En el jainismo, la "Vejez" es una fase inevitable de la vida, marcada por el declive físico y la certeza de la muerte [86]. Representa el proceso natural que consume el cuerpo, disminuyendo el vigor y llevando al final de la existencia humana [87] una etapa asociada a la decadencia [88]. Es la etapa avanzada de la vida, donde la ayuda puede ser escasa y la negligencia es inaceptable [89].
La vejez es personificada como una fuerza implacable [90]. Además, la vejez se relaciona con el retraso, como el del agua para el baño [91]. Es una etapa caracterizada por el deterioro físico [92].
El concepto de Vejez en fuentes locales y regionales
En la historia de la India, la "vejez" se presenta como una etapa crucial de la vida humana. Es el momento en que se contempla el apoyo futuro de los hijos [93]. Esta etapa se caracteriza por la necesidad de descanso y reflexión [94]. Se representa metafóricamente y se asocia con la sabiduría y la disminución de capacidades físicas y mentales [95] [96].
La vejez también implica vulnerabilidad, como se evidencia en la referencia al abuelo de Niraja [97]. Es una progresión natural que no debe temerse [98]. En esta etapa, las cualidades como la prudencia y la previsión se valoran [99].
Se aborda en relación con la planificación familiar y la gestión de desafíos [100]. La longevidad se asocia con posibles complicaciones de salud [101]. A pesar de la fragilidad y las enfermedades, se alaba la experiencia y la sabiduría que aporta [102] [103].
La vejez también puede ser un período de negligencia o dificultad, interpretado como un reflejo de la ira divina [104]. Es una etapa de declive físico y debilidad [105].
Finalmente, en la tradición hindú, se menciona la etapa en que los sentidos fallan [106]. También se describe como el momento en que los hombres se retiran para estudiar y orar antes de difundir el evangelio [107]. En otra referencia, se menciona la infantilización [108]. Según el Carakasamhita, la vejez se define por el declive de los órganos y la fuerza, dominada por el humor ventoso [109].
El concepto de Vejez en las fuentes científicas
En ciencia, "Vejez" es una etapa de la vida definida por el declive físico y cognitivo, usualmente después de los 70 años . Se asocia con mayores riesgos de salud y desafíos [110]. Es un factor de riesgo para condiciones como la osteoporosis y la malnutrición . A menudo, se considera a partir de los 60 años, requiriendo asistencia y atención médica especializada [111] .
La edad avanzada influye en la fertilidad y en la severidad de enfermedades como la COVID-19 y las enfermedades hepatopancreatobiliares [112] [113]. Problemas como los de la próstata son comunes en hombres mayores . El deterioro articular y el desarrollo de sandhigat vata también se ven influenciados . En esta etapa, el ghee puede ayudar a aliviar afecciones degenerativas . La prevalencia de la osteoartritis aumenta después de los 45 años .
Fuentes y referencias para lectura adicional
La lista anterior se basa en una serie de artículos (en inglés) sobre budismo, hinduismo, jainismo, historia y otras tradiciones espirituales. A continuación, se pueden encontrar las fuentes utilizadas y más información sobre lo que simboliza la “Vejez� como referencia:
-) Apadana commentary (Atthakatha) door U Lu Pe Win: ^(1)
-) A Discourse on Paticcasamuppada door Venerable Mahasi Sayadaw: ^(2), ^(3), ^(11), ^(12)
-) Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra door Gelongma Karma Migme Chödrön: ^(4), ^(6), ^(7)
-) Mahavastu (great story) door J. J. Jones: ^(5), ^(8)
-) Lotus Sutra (Saddharma-Pundarika) door H. Kern: ^(9)
-) Abhidhamma in Daily Life door Nina Van Gorkom: ^(10)
-) Vinaya Pitaka (3): Khandhaka door I. B. Horner: ^(13)
-) Vinaya (2): The Mahavagga door T. W. Rhys Davids: ^(14)
-) Milindapanha (questions of King Milinda) door T. W. Rhys Davids: ^(15), ^(21)
-) The Doctrine of Paticcasamuppada door U Than Daing: ^(16)
-) Maha Buddhavamsa—The Great Chronicle of Buddhas door Ven. Mingun Sayadaw: ^(17)
-) Guide to Tipitaka door U Ko Lay: ^(18)
-) Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6 door Robert Chalmers: ^(19)
-) Dhammapada (Illustrated) door Ven. Weagoda Sarada Maha Thero: ^(20)
-) Bhajana-Rahasya door Srila Bhaktivinoda Thakura Mahasaya: ^(22), ^(23)
-) Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary) door Śrī Śrīmad Bhaktivedānta Nārāyana Gosvāmī Mahārāja: ^(24), ^(25), ^(26)
-) Chaitanya Bhagavata door Bhumipati Dāsa: ^(27), ^(28)
-) Tiruvaymoli (Thiruvaimozhi): English translation door S. Satyamurthi Ayyangar: ^(29), ^(30), ^(31), ^(32), ^(33)
-) Mahabharata (English) door Kisari Mohan Ganguli: ^(34), ^(35), ^(36)
-) Devi Bhagavata Purana door Swami Vijñanananda: ^(37)
-) Vishnu Purana door Horace Hayman Wilson: ^(38), ^(39)
-) Markandeya Purana door Frederick Eden Pargiter: ^(40), ^(41)
-) Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4 door Vihari-Lala Mitra: ^(42), ^(43), ^(44), ^(45), ^(46), ^(47), ^(48), ^(49), ^(50)
-) Laghu-yoga-vasistha door K. Narayanasvami Aiyar: ^(51)
-) Gautami Mahatmya door G. P. Bhatt: ^(52), ^(53), ^(54)
-) Brihaddharma Purana (abridged) door Syama Charan Banerji: ^(55)
-) Ramayana of Valmiki (Shastri) door Hari Prasad Shastri: ^(56), ^(57)
-) Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story) door Somadeva: ^(58)
-) Yoga-sutras (Vedanta Commentaries): ^(59)
-) Hayanaratna: The Jewel of Annual Astrology door Martin Gansten: ^(60)
-) Vakyapadiya of Bhartrihari door K. A. Subramania Iyer: ^(61)
-) Brahma Sutras (Shankaracharya) door George Thibaut: ^(62)
-) Katha Upanishad with Shankara’s Commentary door S. Sitarama Sastri: ^(63), ^(64)
-) Chandogya Upanishad (english Translation) door Swami Lokeswarananda: ^(65), ^(66), ^(67)
-) Brahma Sutras (Ramanuja) door George Thibaut: ^(68)
-) Taittiriya Upanishad Bhashya Vartika door R. Balasubramanian: ^(69), ^(70), ^(71), ^(72), ^(73)
-) Sankhayana-grihya-sutra door Hermann Oldenberg: ^(74)
-) Paraskara-grihya-sutra door Hermann Oldenberg: ^(75)
-) Hiranyakesi-grihya-sutra door Hermann Oldenberg: ^(76)
-) Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi door Ganganatha Jha: ^(77), ^(78), ^(79), ^(80), ^(81), ^(82), ^(83), ^(84)
-) Rasa Jala Nidhi, vol 1: Initiation, Mercury and Laboratory door Bhudeb Mookerjee: ^(85)
-) Uttaradhyayana Sutra door Hermann Jacobi: ^(87), ^(89)
-) Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra door Helen M. Johnson: ^(88), ^(90), ^(91), ^(92)
-) Folklore of the Santal Parganas: ^(93)
-) Triveni Journal: ^(94), ^(95), ^(96), ^(97), ^(98), ^(99), ^(100), ^(101), ^(102), ^(103)
-) Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints door Justin E. Abbott: ^(104), ^(105), ^(106)
-) The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda door Srila Narayana Maharaja: ^(107), ^(108)
-) History of Science in South Asia: ^(109)
-) The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences: ^(110), ^(111), ^(112), ^(113)