Significance of Signless
Signless in Tibetan Buddhism represents a concept that transcends signs and independent existence. It embodies the essence of all phenomena, including the realms of samsara and nirvana. In Mahayana thought, Signless denotes a state beyond visions, facilitating true enlightenment. Meanwhile, Theravada teachings identify Signless with Nibbana, which is devoid of craving and conditionality, highlighting the unpredictable and indefinable nature of death. Overall, Signless signifies a deep understanding of existence and liberation in Buddhist philosophy.
Synonyms: Neutral, Indistinct, Nameless
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Signless'
Signless in Buddhism symbolizes the absence of independent existence and observable signs, embodying the essence of phenomena. It represents Nibbana's freedom from craving, leading to true enlightenment beyond signs, highlighting life鈥檚 unpredictable nature.
From: Visuddhimagga (the pah of purification)
(1) The unpredictability and indefinable nature of when and how death occurs.[1]
From: A Manual of Abhidhamma
(1) Signless indicates Nibbana is free from the observable signs of craving and conditionality.[2]
From: The Perfection Of Wisdom In Eight Thousand Lines
(1) A state that goes beyond signs and visions, leading to authentic enlightenment.[3]
The concept of Signless in local and regional sources
Signless is described as the final state among various qualities, encompassing aspects that are defined, undefined, and only indicated, emphasizing its significance in understanding the concept of qualities in a regional context.
From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda
(1) This is the last state of the qualities, and it is a part of the states of the qualities that are defined, undefined, indicated only, and this.[4]