Significance of Causality
Causality is a fundamental principle across various philosophical and religious traditions, including Tibetan Buddhism, Purana, Vyakarana, Vedanta, and others. It defines the relationship between cause and effect, asserting that every effect must have a cause and that causes precede their effects. This principle underlines the importance of validating cognition, the cycle of karma in rebirth, and the relationship between existence and non-existence. Causality also plays a significant role in explaining phenomena within the frameworks of Buddhist teachings and other philosophical discussions.
Synonyms: Causation, Cause and effect, Causal relationship, Causative factor, Influence, Causal link, Relationship, Connection, Causality principle, Causality relationship
In Dutch: Causaliteit; In Finnish: Syy-seuraus; In Spanish: Causalidad; In German: 碍补耻蝉补濒颈迟盲迟
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Causality'
Causality in Buddhism emphasizes the relationship between causes and effects, asserting that all effects arise from prior causes. This principle underpins understanding of reality, influencing cognition, and is central to Buddhist teachings on existence.
From: Tattvasangraha [with commentary]
(1) A principle stating that all causes exist prior to their effects, indicating that the existence of one thing hinges on the prior existence of another.[1] (2) The principle that states every effect must have a cause, a fundamental concept highlighted in the text to establish the need for validating cognition.[2] (3) The relationship between cause and effect, which is an integral aspect of how Inference operates in understanding reality.[3]
From: Visuddhimagga (the pah of purification)
(1) A specific technical aspect of dhamma dealing with the relationship between causes and effects in the context of law.[4]
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) The relationship between cause and effect, a central theme in Buddhist teachings that is explored through the framework of pratyayas and hetus.[5]
Hindu concept of 'Causality'
Causality in Hinduism encompasses various interpretations, including the belief that every effect has a cause, the complex relationship between cause and effect, and its significance in understanding Atman and karma within philosophical discussions.
From: Mandukya Upanishad (Gaudapa Karika and Shankara Bhashya)
(1) The principle that wise men do not believe in, referring to the relationship where one event causes another, particularly regarding the differences between waking and dream states.[6] (2) The principle that asserts every effect must have a cause, which is argued against in terms of the creation of Jiva and the illusions of Avidya.[7] (3) The characteristic of all phenomenal objects, where causes produce effects.[8] (4) Causality is the principle that every effect has a cause, which is pivotal in the argument for the existence of Atman as the cause behind the universe.[9] (5) The idea that persuades individuals to believe they experience the same world after waking from deep sleep (Sushupti) as before.[10]
From: Brahma Sutras (Ramanuja)
(1) The relationship between cause and effect, showing that Brahman is the cause of the world in contrast to the absence of causality in the Pradhana and atoms.[11]
From: Vakyapadiya of Bhartrihari
(1) The relationship between cause and effect, stated to be unsound in the commentary.[12] (2) The principle that everything has a cause; its untenability suggests complexities in how existence arises or ceases.[13]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) The relationship expressed by the instrumental ending in the term 鈥楽ankhyaya鈥� indicating a cause-effect connection.[14]
From: Bhagavad-gita-rahasya (or Karma-yoga Shastra)
(1) A principle in both Buddhism and Vedic religion indicating that actions (karma) lead to outcomes in the cycle of birth and rebirth.[15]