Significance of Kaivalya
Kaivalya in Hinduism signifies the state of absolute liberation and spiritual isolation obtained through yoga practices, leading to the realization of the soul's true nature. Various philosophical perspectives perceive Kaivalya uniquely, with Vaishnavism viewing it as a merging with Brahman, which is less desirable than seeking direct communion with God. In Yoga and other traditions like Vedanta and Sankhya, Kaivalya embodies the ultimate liberation from material existence, emphasizing self-realization and transcendence beyond dualities and ignorance, culminating in complete freedom.
Synonyms: Moksha, Liberation, Enlightenment, Self-realization, Transcendence, Freedom., Emancipation, Spiritual freedom
In Dutch: Kaivalya; In German: Kaivalya; In Finnish: Kaivalya; In Spanish: Kaivalya
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Kaivalya'
Kaivalya in Hinduism represents a state of ultimate liberation and isolation, reflecting profound self-realization beyond worldly attachments, ignorance, and dualities, achieved through practices like yoga and philosophical understanding, marking the highest human spiritual aspiration.
From: Thirty minor Upanishads
(1) Kaivalya denotes the state of ultimate liberation and realization of Brahman, where the individual does not return to worldly existence after attaining this state.[1] (2) The state of isolation or liberation attained through yogic practices, resulting in the cessation of the mind's fluctuations and a direct realization of truth.[2] (3) The supreme seat that provides emancipation and separates one from the snare of maya.[3] (4) The state of liberation or ultimate freedom from the cycle of rebirth.[4] (5) The ultimate goal in ascetic practice, representing absolute liberation and oneness with the Self.[5]
From: Kaivalya Upanishad
(1) The solitary realization of the concept of Alone, indicating a deep understanding of one's own singular existence.[6]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) A term referring to the state of merging into the existence of the Lord, which is the goal of certain yogis who seek unity with the divine.[7] (2) The state of merging into the existence of Brahman, which, according to the text, is seen as undesirable by those blessed with the merciful glance of Shri Caitanya.[8]
From: Tiruvaymoli (Thiruvaimozhi): English translation
(1) A concept of liberation or isolation in spiritual terms, viewed as a lesser goal compared to seeking the Lord.[9] (2) A state of self-enjoyment or liberation that is considered less valuable if it is pursued for personal desire.[10]
From: Sri Krishna-Chaitanya
(1) The state considered the ultimate goal in certain philosophies where the individual self is merged with the divine.[11]
From: Laghu-yoga-vasistha
(1) Emancipation or the ultimate state of self-realization, where one attains complete liberation from the cycle of birth and death.[12] (2) Kaivalya signifies the state of aloneness or isolation from the distractions of the world, aligning oneself with the nonduality of existence.[13] (3) The state of liberation that is achieved through the destruction of ignorance and the individual mind.[14] (4) Kaivalya denotes final liberation, where the duality of existence and the concept of Ahamkara are transcended.[15] (5) Absolute freedom or independence achieved through realization of the Self.[16]
From: Yoga-sutras (with Vyasa and Vachaspati Mishra)
(1) The perfect freedom or liberation aimed at through yogic practices.[17] (2) A state similar to absolute freedom that the Videhas experience while functioning within their own potencies.[18] (3) Final emancipation or liberation, signifying the realization by an individual of their separation from mind-matter.[19]
From: Yoga-sutras (with Bhoja’s Rajamartanda)
(1) The term referring to the state of isolation or solitude of the soul from ignorance, suggesting a higher understanding of existence.[20] (2) A term denoting isolation or spiritual liberation, signifying the soul's return to its true essence, free from the influences of evil.[21]
From: Shakti and Shakta
(1) The ultimate state of liberation or freedom from the cycle of birth and death, often associated with profound realization of self.[22]
From: The Sarva-Darsana-Samgraha
(1) The state of absolute liberation and isolation achieved through yoga practices, leading to the soul's realization of its true nature.[23]
The concept of Kaivalya in local and regional sources
Kaivalya is a state of ultimate realization in Hindu philosophy, signifying the achievement of true essence where matter and spirit unite, representing a universal goal in spiritual practice and understanding.
From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda
(1) This state is achieved through the similarity of purity between Sattva and Purusha, representing the soul's isolation and perfection, independent of the universe.[24] (2) Kaivalya is a state of isolation attained by the mind through discrimination, where the mind is bent on discriminating, leading to a state of perfect domination and self-realization.[25]
From: Triveni Journal
(1) A state of ultimate realization in Hindu philosophy where matter and spirit attain their true essence, perceived as a goal shared by both.[26]