Significance of Self-denial
Self-denial, as interpreted across various spiritual traditions, emphasizes the importance of refraining from personal desires and comforts in pursuit of higher spiritual objectives. Buddhism teaches that self-denial helps achieve enlightenment, while Jainism and Purana stress abstaining from worldly pleasures for spiritual growth. Similarly, Yoga and Vedanta highlight intentional limitations on personal desires to maintain spiritual focus. This concept also features in Indian history, illustrating how rejection of personal pleasures can lead to greater purposes, as seen in the ideals of leaders like Gandhi.
Synonyms: Self-restraint, Self-discipline, Self-control, Asceticism, Abstinence, Renunciation, Temperance, Austerity
In Dutch: Zelfverloochening; In Finnish: Itsens盲 kielt盲minen; In Spanish: 础产苍别驳补肠颈贸苍; In German: Selbstverleugnung; In Malay: Penafian diri; In Swedish: 厂箩盲濒惫蹿枚谤苍别办别濒蝉别; In French: 础产苍茅驳补迟颈辞苍
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Self-denial'
Self-denial in Buddhism encompasses various practices aimed at spiritual growth, emphasizing abstention from comforts and personal desires to achieve enlightenment, maintain focus on spiritual goals, and support the greater good over individual needs.
From: Maha Buddhavamsa鈥擳he Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) The extreme practice engaged in by Jambuka, demonstrating misguided attempts at spiritual attainment through neglect of basic sustenance.[1] (2) The act of limiting one's own sustenance or comforts for a prolonged period, a key aspect of successfully fulfilling the Saraniya Practice over twelve years.[2] (3) The practice of abstaining from certain comforts, such as lying down, to cultivate a stronger focus on spiritual goals, as illustrated by the lives of certain bhikkhus.[3]
From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) The practice embraced by Kosiya to refrain from indulging in pleasures without sharing with those in need.[4] (2) The condition that the Elder Moggallana seeks to instill in the Lord High Treasurer, emphasizing the importance of foregoing selfish desires for the greater good.[5]
From: The Fo-Sho-Hing-Tsan-King (A Life of Buddha)
(1) The practice of denying oneself comforts, which the Tathagata argues does not lead to true understanding.[6] (2) A discipline Buddha practiced for the purpose of achieving enlightenment and leaving a legacy.[7]
From: Mahavastu (great story)
(1) The act of foregoing personal desires for the sake of others or a higher principle.[8]
Hindu concept of 'Self-denial'
Self-denial in Hinduism embodies the practice of abstaining from desires and pleasures to achieve spiritual growth, purity, and liberation. It is exemplified by figures like Sukra and Tripura, highlighting its significance in ascetic disciplines.
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) The practice of abstaining from personal desires as a means to achieve true purity.[9] (2) The act of Garuda choosing not to drink the Amrita, illustrating his strength of character and dedication.[10] (3) The practice of withholding personal desires in service to others, exemplified by Savitri's conduct in the household.[11] (4) The practice of abstaining from indulgence in worldly pleasures for spiritual growth.[12] (5) The act of denying oneself basic needs or pleasures for spiritual or moral reasons.[13]
From: Vishnu Purana
(1) A lifestyle requirement emphasized for anyone who would possess the Syamantaka jewel.[14] (2) The renunciation of worldly pleasures and desires in the pursuit of spiritual liberation.[15] (3) The practice of abstaining from indulgences for spiritual growth or purification.[16]
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) The practice demonstrated by Sukra through abstinence, contributing to his weakened physical state but heightened spiritual focus.[17] (2) The practice of refraining from indulgences, highlighted as a way to achieve liberation, akin to the Stoic philosophy.[18]
From: Markandeya Purana
(1) A state that distinguishes a man from others, implying a rejection of bodily pleasures for higher spiritual attainment.[19]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) The act of rejecting worldly possessions and desires as advocated by the Renunciate.[20] (2) The concept of voluntarily limiting oneself in order to more closely follow the rules during the invitation process.[21]
From: Yoga-sutras (with Bhoja鈥檚 Rajamartanda)
(1) Self-denial involves the intentional abstention from certain pleasures and desires, often practiced through fasting and rituals as part of ascetic disciplines.[22]
Jain concept of 'Self-denial'
In Jainism, self-denial involves abstaining from earthly desires and needs, which allows individuals to concentrate on achieving spiritual objectives, reflecting a commitment to inner growth and transcendence.
From: Uttaradhyayana Sutra
(1) The practice of abstaining from desires and needs in order to focus on spiritual goals.[23]
The concept of Self-denial in local and regional sources
Self-denial involves refraining from personal desires for greater causes, highlighted in various contexts like Rama's character, Buddhist teachings, and principles from leaders like Gandhi, emphasizing personal sacrifice for spiritual and communal well-being.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) The act of refraining from indulging in one鈥檚 desires for a greater cause, a key aspect of Rama's character and principles.[24] (2) The Buddhist doctrine emphasized by Buddha focused on overcoming worldly desires and attachments for spiritual liberation.[25] (3) The act of rejecting one's own desires or needs, expressed in the context of children's experiences of hardship.[26] (4) An ancient Indian ideal that Premchand highlighted, denoting the practice of refraining from indulging one鈥檚 own desires.[27] (5) The practice of suppressing desires, which can create a sense of guilt in individuals when not achieved.[28]
From: Bede's Ecclesiastical History of England
(1) Ceadda applied himself to humility, self-denial, and study after becoming a bishop, according to the provided information.[29]
From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda
(1) The text mentions that there is no need of this for the men, the masters of the situation, implying that it is not equally expected of everyone in society.[30]