Significance of Nonentity
In various philosophical contexts, Nonentity is described as something that lacks being or existence. In Tibetan Buddhism, it characterizes concepts or objects that do not have tangible significance or agency, contrasting them with entities. Purana interprets Nonentity as a sense of loss or illusion, while Vedanta views it as a false perception of existence. Nyaya argues against the concept by discussing its inability to produce effects. Additionally, in Indian history, figures like Tara exemplify the notion of Nonentity through their lack of agency.
Synonyms: Nobody, Insignificance, Nullity, Non-being, Nothingness, Zero
In Dutch: Niet-entiteit; In Finnish: 罢测丑箩盲; In Spanish: Nulidad; In German: Nichts
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Nonentity'
In Buddhism, "Nonentity" refers to concepts lacking effective action or real existence, emphasizing their inability to influence cognition or reality, and challenging views on existence, such as the perceived unauthored nature of the Veda.
From: Tattvasangraha [with commentary]
(1) An object or concept that lacks real existence, leading to the failure of subsequent cognitions.[1] (2) A thing or concept that lacks the capacity for effective action, contrasting with entities.[2] (3) A term used to describe something that lacks being or existence; in the context, it is argued that eternality does not need to be considered a nonentity simply because it is defined by negation.[3] (4) Something that does not have a tangible existence or significance; the text characterizes the idea of the Veda being unauthored in this way.[4]
Hindu concept of 'Nonentity'
In Hinduism, Nonentity signifies the perception of Maya as illusory by the enlightened, a sense of despair from loss, a concept arguing against the existence of effects, and the viewpoint that the world is mere illusion or nothingness.
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) The view that the world is a mere illusion or nothingness, seen through the lens of divine essence.[5]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad
(1) From the perspective of wisdom, Maya is declared as a nonentity (tuchchha), indicating that its existence is perceived as absent by an enlightened individual.[6]
The concept of Nonentity in local and regional sources
Nonentity describes characters like Tara, who are depicted as having little agency and individuality, emphasizing their lack of significance within their circumstances and reinforcing themes of invisibility and powerlessness in narratives.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) A term used to describe characters like Tara, who are portrayed as lacking in agency and individuality within the confines of their circumstances.[7]