Significance of Contentment
Contentment is a significant concept across various philosophies and religions, embodying the essence of satisfaction with one's circumstances. In Jainism, it is seen as a remedy for greed and promotes happiness. Vaishnavism highlights its connection to unfulfilled desires for divine qualities. Puranas describe it as inner satisfaction essential for spiritual welfare, while Yoga emphasizes acceptance and mental peace. In Mahayana, it reflects a Bodhisattva's peace with their situation, portraying contentment as a pathway to joy and spiritual growth.
Synonyms: Satisfaction, Happiness, Fulfillment, Gratification, Pleasure, Serenity, Peace, Ease, Well-being, Joy, Comfort, Peace of mind, Serenity.
In Dutch: Tevredenheid; In Finnish: 罢测测迟测惫盲颈蝉测测蝉; In Spanish: Contentamiento; In German: Zufriedenheit; In Malay: Kepuasan hati; In Swedish: 叠别濒氓迟别苍丑别迟; In French: Contentement
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Contentment'
In Buddhism, Contentment signifies a vital virtue marked by satisfaction and acceptance of one's circumstances, fostering peace and moral behavior, and exemplified by figures like Mahakassapa, highlighting its role in achieving spiritual fulfillment.
From: Visuddhimagga (the pah of purification)
(1) A mental state of satisfaction with what one has, vital for the practice of asceticism.[1]
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) Contentment refers to the state of happiness with whatever one possesses, described as the best form of wealth.[2]
From: Vinaya Pitaka (3): Khandhaka
(1) A state of satisfaction or fulfillment, regarded by the Lord as an important virtue within the monk's conduct.[3]
From: Cetasikas
(1) A state of satisfaction that contributes to moral behavior and the practice of abstinence.[4]
From: Mahayana Mahaparinirvana Sutra
(1) A state in which a Bodhisattva feels satisfied and at peace with their circumstances, regardless of external conditions.[5]
From: Akshayamatinirdesha [english]
(1) A state of satisfaction and acceptance of one鈥檚 current situation, promoting peaceful mental space.[6]
Hindu concept of 'Contentment'
Contentment in Hinduism, or Tushti, embodies a deep sense of mental satisfaction and peace, achieved through acceptance of one's life circumstances, detachment from desires, and righteous living, leading to true happiness and fulfillment.
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) A state of satisfaction and acceptance of one's circumstances.[7] (2) A state of satisfaction and happiness that is highly valued, especially when freed from grief.[8] (3) Regarded as the highest happiness, contrasting the never-ending desire for wealth, which complicates life and brings miseries.[9] (4) A state of satisfaction and fulfillment, particularly in relation to spiritual understanding.[10] (5) A state of satisfaction and fulfillment, which King Yayati sought after abandoning his desires.[11]
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) A personal state where one is free from the desires for more material gains, leading to satisfaction with living in the moment.[12] (2) Santosha, the practice of being satisfied with what one has.[13] (3) The satisfaction derived from acting according to one's duties, leading to mental steadiness.[14]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) The inner satisfaction and happiness that serves as a friend to those who seek spiritual welfare, contrasting with external desires.[15]
From: Garuda Purana
(1) A state of satisfaction achieved by being happy with what is easily received without solicitation.[16]
From: Anugita (English translation)
(1) A state of satisfaction linked to the 'water' of the forest, essential for spiritual growth.[17]
From: Vishnu Purana
(1) Depicts the state of satisfaction leading to resignation and peace.[18]
From: Yoga-sutras (with Vyasa and Vachaspati Mishra)
(1) The absence of desire to secure more of the necessaries of life than one already possesses.[19] (2) A state of satisfaction and acceptance, which is the key to acquiring extreme happiness.[20]
From: Yoga-sutras (with Bhoja鈥檚 Rajamartanda)
(1) A state of satisfaction and acceptance that leads to profound inner joy and well-being.[21] (2) A state of satisfaction and ease within oneself, often regarded as a result of the purification process.[22]
From: Vivekachudamani
(1) A state of satisfaction and acceptance, where one feels fulfilled and at ease.[23] (2) A state of satisfaction and acceptance, regarded as one of the virtues to be cultivated on the path to Liberation.[24]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) A state of satisfaction that is included as an illustrative concept in the text, although not a direct means of livelihood.[25]
From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)
(1) A lesson highlighting that satisfaction with what one has leads to happiness, as shown by the mendicants' tales.[26]
From: Padarthadharmasamgraha and Nyayakandali
(1) A state of satisfaction with what one has, not desiring beyond basic needs.[27]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) A state of satisfaction that is lacking in the speaker because of the unfulfilled desire to experience divine qualities.[28]
Jain concept of 'Contentment'
In Jainism, Contentment is viewed as a vital quality that promotes happiness and counters greed. The King observed this state of happiness among his people, highlighting its significance in fostering a harmonious community.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) An important quality that fosters happiness and acts as a remedy against greed.[29] (2) A state of happiness that the King noted was prevalent among his people.[30]