Significance of Former action
Former action holds significant interpretations across various philosophies. In Jainism, it encompasses the cause-and-effect principle linked to past deeds influencing present suffering, confirming one's new status, and the potential for nullification through awareness. Vedanta views former action as the consequences of past deeds affecting souls' experiences of pain or pleasure. Theravada adds a practical aspect, defining former action as essential for the successful preparation of kathina cloth. Each perspective highlights the importance of past actions in shaping present realities.
Synonyms: Previous action, Past action, Previous deed, Prior act
In Dutch: Vorige actie; In Finnish: Entinen toiminta; In Spanish: Acción anterior; In German: Frühere Aktion
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Former action'
Former action in Buddhism is interpreted as essential preparatory efforts leading to the successful creation of kathina cloth, highlighting the importance of deliberate actions and conditions in spiritual practices and rituals.
From: Vinaya Pitaka (4): Parivara
(1) A necessary condition for the successful creation of kathina cloth, entailing various preparatory steps.[1]
Hindu concept of 'Former action'
Former action in Hinduism denotes the past deeds of a soul that shape its current experiences, influencing its life through either pain or pleasure based on the consequences of these actions at specific times and places.
From: Brahma Sutras (Shankaracharya)
(1) This refers to past deeds or behaviors that influence the soul's activity, according to the provided text, influencing the soul's actions.[2] (2) The cessation of the soul's role as ruler is explained as a result of the exhaustion of consequences that arise from actions performed previously.[3] (3) The past deeds of the soul that lead to either pain or pleasure in its current existence.[4]
From: Brahma Sutras (Ramanuja)
(1) The past deeds that have consequences experienced by living souls at definite times and places.[5]
Jain concept of 'Former action'
In Jainism, Former action represents past deeds that may be mitigated by avoiding sin and fostering awareness. It also embodies the cause-and-effect principle, influencing current suffering and validating one's new status through recounting prior actions.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) Past deeds that Rauhineya was compelled to recount in order to confirm his new 'god-like' status.[6] (2) Indicates the cause-and-effect principle as Jinadharma reflects on his past deeds that led him to his current suffering.[7]
From: Acaranga-sutra
(1) Past deeds that can be nullified through preventing sin and cultivating awareness.[8]