Significance of Past life
The concept of "Past life" is explored across various philosophies such as Tibetan Buddhism, Purana, Yoga, Vedanta, Mahayana, and Theravada. It generally signifies the belief that previous existences and actions significantly influence an individual's current circumstances and experiences. This idea encompasses elements such as the recollection of past memories, the effects of karma, and the cyclical nature of existence and reincarnation. Each tradition emphasizes how past lives shape current behavior, relationships, and personal growth towards enlightenment.
Synonyms: Previous existence, Former life, Reincarnation, Previous incarnation
In Dutch: Vorig leven; In Finnish: Mennyt elämä; In Spanish: Vida pasada; In German: Vergangenes Leben; In Swedish: Tidigare liv; In Malay: Kehidupan lampau; In French: Vie antérieure
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Past life'
In Buddhism, "Past life" denotes previous existences that shape present circumstances, affect individual abilities and relationships, and illustrate the cyclical nature of life influencing both current experiences and future existences.
From: Maha Buddhavamsa—The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) The backstory of the characters, influencing their current circumstances and relationships.[1]
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) Refers to Tambadathika's previous experiences and actions as an executioner, which affected his psyche and peace.[2]
From: Abhidhamma in Daily Life (by Ashin Janakabhivamsa)
(1) The previous existence of a being that shapes their current and future experiences.[3]
From: Milindapanha (questions of King Milinda)
(1) References to previous existences where actions taken could influence current life experiences and suffering.[4]
From: Shurangama Sutra (with commentary) (English)
(1) Refers to previous existences that influence an individual's current life circumstances, including their intelligence and ability to learn.[5] (2) Refers to the cyclical nature of existence in which future lives will also undergo the process of production, dwelling, change, and extinction.[6]
From: Blue Annals (deb-ther sngon-po)
(1) Reference to U rgyan pa's previous life as a priest, influencing his current life and dedication to observing monastic vows.[7]
Hindu concept of 'Past life'
In Hinduism, "Past life" encompasses memories and experiences from previous existences that shape current behavior and circumstances, highlighting the influence of karma and the continuous cycle of life and death through reincarnation.
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) Previous existence which determines current circumstances through one's actions.[8] (2) Previous existence or incarnation of an individual before their current life, often believed to influence current circumstances.[9] (3) The concept that actions taken in prior existences influence current experiences, happiness, or suffering.[10]
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) Lila's memories and experiences from her previous existence, which she recalls vividly with the help of the goddess.[11] (2) A previous existence referring to the cycles of life and death, the concept of reincarnation is implied through the narrative.[12]
From: Chandogya Upanishad (english Translation)
(1) The concept suggesting continuity of existence and memory from prior embodiments, influencing present behavior and knowledge.[13]
From: Kaivalya Upanishad
(1) Refers to previous experiences that involved navigating through illusions and falsehoods before reaching enlightenment.[14]
The concept of Past life in local and regional sources
The keyphrase "Past life" encompasses the recollections and experiences that influence characters' relationships and decisions, as well as specific incidents from Lal Bahadur's history that define his character and actions.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) Refers to Lal Bahadur's previous experiences and incidents that illustrate his character.[15] (2) The recollections and experiences of the characters that shape their current relationships and decisions.[16]
From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda
(1) Past life is something that can be easily explained, and consciousness is only the surface of the mental ocean, where all experiences are stored up, and can be stirred up.[17]