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Significance of Compactness

Compactness, as defined in Natyashastra, signifies the capacity to express deep meanings using fewer syllables. In contrast, Theravada interprets Compactness as a state of tight unification that obscures the inherent qualities of impermanence and not-self. Both perspectives emphasize the importance of brevity and cohesion in communicating essential truths, though they apply to different contexts—one in art and performance, the other in understanding existential concepts.

Synonyms: Concision, Brevity, Density, Efficiency, Smallness, Closeness, Concentration, Compression, Economy.

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

Buddhist concept of 'Compactness'

Buddhism Books

Compactness in Buddhism signifies a state of tight unity that obscures the fundamental truths of impermanence and not-self, highlighting a potential misunderstanding of existence by masking the transient nature of life.

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

From: Visuddhimagga (the pah of purification)

(1) The state of being tightly unified or consolidated, which conceals the true characteristics of impermanence and not-self.[1]

Theravada is a major branch of Buddhism having the the Pali canon (tipitaka) as their canonical literature, which includes the vinaya-pitaka (monastic rules), the sutta-pitaka (Buddhist sermons) and the abhidhamma-pitaka (philosophy and psychology).

Hindu concept of 'Compactness'

Hinduism Books

Compactness in Hinduism signifies the capacity to express deep philosophical or spiritual concepts effectively and briefly, emphasizing clarity and depth within a limited linguistic framework. This quality illustrates the richness of Hindu thought through concise expression.

Significance in Natyashastra (theatrics and dramaturgy):
Natyashastra Books

From: Natyashastra (English)

(1) The ability to convey a profound meaning succinctly, utilizing a minimal number of syllables.[2]

Natyashastra refers to both the ancient Indian tradition (shastra) of performing arts, (natya—theatrics, drama, dance, music), as well as the name of a Sanskrit work dealing with these subjects. It also teaches the rules for composing Dramatic plays (nataka), construction and performance of Theater, and Poetic works (kavya).