Significance of Gross object
In Tibetan Buddhism, the concept of Gross object pertains to physical or tangible entities that are not composed of smaller units like atoms. These objects are complex and cannot be viewed as singular due to their diverse characteristics. They challenge the idea of unity, as they are perceived through flawed interpretations of similar perceptions. Gross objects highlight the differences in interpretative frameworks and underscore the philosophical inquiry into their properties and existence, revealing the limitations of perceiving them as singular entities.
Synonyms: Vile thing
In Dutch: Grof voorwerp; In Finnish: Törkeä kohde; In Spanish: Objeto bruto; In German: Grobes Objekt
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Gross object'
Gross object in Buddhism signifies a tangible entity perceived through flawed interpretations, lacking singularity, and embodying diverse characteristics. It challenges notions of unity, illustrating the complexity of physical objects under philosophical scrutiny.
From: Tattvasangraha [with commentary]
(1) Refers to physical or tangible objects, often viewed differently depending on one's interpretative framework.[1] (2) A tangible entity that is perceived through the senses, which cannot encapsulate the singular concept of 'one' due to its material nature.[2] (3) A conceptual entity that, if singular in nature, would lead to paradoxical implications regarding its properties, such as being covered or coloured uniformly.[3] (4) A tangible or substantial item that is perceived through a flawed interpretation of a series of similar perceptions or atoms.[4] (5) This refers to a physical entity that, although not made of atoms, cannot be considered as a singular entity due to its diverse characteristics.[5]
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) Gross objects refer to tangible material items that can be given in acts of lower generosity.[6]
Hindu concept of 'Gross object'
In Hinduism, "Gross object" refers to concrete, tangible items for meditation, easily perceived and understood by the mind, encountered in the waking state, distinguished from dream state concepts, and recognizable through the senses.
From: Mandukya Upanishad (Gaudapa Karika and Shankara Bhashya)
(1) Gross objects refer to the tangible and material entities encountered in the waking state, which contrasts with the ideas associated with the dream state.[7] (2) Tangible, physical objects that can be perceived through the senses.[8]
From: Vivekachudamani
(1) Gross objects are the physical entities that can be perceived and experienced by the soul within the waking state through the gross body.[9]
From: Mandukya Upanishad
(1) Objects that are perceived and enjoyed by individuals in the waking state, representing the tangible aspects of the material world.[10]
From: Yoga-sutras (with Bhoja’s Rajamartanda)
(1) Representations that are dependent on subtile objects and refer to physical forms and matter that can be conceived in relation to the argumentative and non-argumentative distinctions.[11]
From: Yoga-sutras (Vedanta Commentaries)
(1) An item of concentration that belongs to the most external order of phenomena.[12]
From: Yoga-sutras (with Vyasa and Vachaspati Mishra)
(1) Physical entities that are perceived distinctly and involve both indistinctive and distinctive qualities in thought-transformation.[13]
Jain concept of 'Gross object'
In Jainism, Gross objects are tangible items like steel and stones that occupy space without allowing for movement between them, illustrating a unique relationship with space despite their solidity and apparent immobility.
From: Tattvartha Sutra (with commentary)
(1) Objects like steel and stones that do not give room to each other but are still accommodated by the space.[14]
The concept of Gross object in local and regional sources
The keyphrase "Gross object" relates to the text by describing it as the initial focus of meditation, encompassing tangible elements and their derived forms, highlighting its significance in the practice of meditation.
From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda
(1) This is a description of the first objects of the meditation, which include elements and the things made from them.[15]