Significance of Cloud of Virtue
The Cloud of Virtue in Yoga signifies a transcendent state attained through pure spiritual knowledge, devoid of impurities, which can lead to seedless trance. It represents a meditative state achieved via constant discriminative knowledge linked with virtuous qualities. Additionally, it serves as a metaphorical expression highlighting the peak of purity in knowledge and a sense of higher desirelessness. Ultimately, the Cloud of Virtue reflects qualitative knowledge culminating in recognizing the distinction between Purusha and objective existence.
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Cloud of Virtue'
In Hinduism, the Cloud of Virtue symbolizes a transcendent, pure state of knowledge, marking the culmination of virtuous understanding, leading to a seedless trance and the realization of the Purusha beyond material existence.
From: Yoga-sutras (with Vyasa and Vachaspati Mishra)
(1) The trance known as the Cloud of Virtue is a state that helps establish the Purusha as he appears in the other world.[1] (2) A metaphorical state of the mind when virtues shine brightly, representing the clarity and enlightenment that can occur when impurities are removed.[2] (3) A metaphorical state representing the condition when the virtues of knowledge are illuminated, revealing truths that were previously obscured.[3] (4) A state of trance that can be achieved through the proper practice of Yoga, leading to high levels of knowledge and virtue.[4] (5) A contemplative state associated with high levels of knowledge and purity when the mind is free from impurities.[5]
From: Yoga-sutras (with Bhoja鈥檚 Rajamartanda)
(1) The meditation produced from the appearance of constant discrimination, which showers or irrigates the virtues of a yogi, even in the absence of desire for rewards.[6] (2) A metaphorical representation of knowledge that leads to the removal of afflictions and the cessation of work.[7] (3) A metaphorical concept that signifies a state or entity bringing about the cessation of ignorance and afflictions.[8]
From: Yoga-sutras (Vedanta Commentaries)
(1) A metaphorical representation of the overwhelming presence of virtuous qualities or insights.[9]
The concept of Cloud of Virtue in local and regional sources
The Cloud of Virtue is a state of Samadhi achieved by Yogi through renouncing personal power and virtue, ultimately leading to divine vision and unity with God, enabling one to guide others towards this enlightenment.
From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda
(1) The cloud of virtue is a state of Samadhi that the Yogi enters after conquering all interest in the powers acquired and renouncing all virtue arising from actions.[10] (2) This is what a man attains when he rejects all superhuman powers, according to Patanjali, and it is the state where one sees God and becomes God, helping others to do the same.[11]