Significance of Mahamudra
Mahamudra is a profound and central concept in Tibetan Buddhism that emphasizes the nature of mind and reality, focusing on the realization of the ultimate essence of existence. It encompasses advanced meditative practices aimed at achieving enlightenment and a deep understanding of non-duality. Mahamudra is an essential teaching passed down through various lineages, signifying enlightened awareness and unity with the true nature of reality. This concept also finds parallels in other spiritual traditions, highlighting its significance across Buddhist and yogic practices.
Synonyms: Great seal, Ultimate nature, Non-duality, Emptiness, Profound meditation
In Dutch: Mahamudra; In German: Mahamudra; In Finnish: Mahamudra; In Spanish: Mahamudra; In Swedish: Mahamudra; In Malay: Mahamudra; In French: Mahamudra
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Mahamudra'
Mahamudra in Buddhism is a vital concept in Tibetan Buddhism, representing enlightened awareness that emphasizes direct experience of the nature of mind and reality, and serves as a profound meditative practice leading towards enlightenment.
From: Blue Annals (deb-ther sngon-po)
(1) A core doctrine within the teachings which Bsam gling rin po che studied and taught.[1] (2) A significant concept in Tibetan Buddhism, referring to a state of enlightened awareness that Kodrakpa understood.[2] (3) A highly esteemed practice and teaching within Tibetan Buddhism, known for its focus on meditation and realization.[3] (4) A significant Tibetan Buddhist meditation practice that emphasizes the nature of mind.[4] (5) A specific meditative practice aimed at experiencing the ultimate reality, which the acarya pursued fervently.[5]
From: The Six Yogas of Naropa
(1) Mahamudra is an accomplishment that the yogi will attain by the power of the successively appearing signs, as the Life-Prana enters into the Central Channel.[6]
From: The Great Chariot
(1) Advanced practices or meditative states associated with the unity of the mind and the inherent nature of reality, often used in conjunction with other teachings.[7] (2) The natural state of consciousness that practitioners are empowered to meditate upon through the precious word empowerment.[8] (3) The realization of the ultimate nature of mind and reality, signifying a union with the true essence of existence.[9]
Hindu concept of 'Mahamudra'
Mahamudra in Hinduism encompasses various advanced yogic techniques and significant hand gestures aimed at breath regulation, purification, and spiritual liberation, highlighting its importance in meditation, worship rituals, and Hathayoga practices.
From: Thirty minor Upanishads
(1) An advanced yogic practice aimed at purifying the individual and achieving liberation.[10] (2) An advanced yogic technique involving specific postures and breath control.[11]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) The supreme forms of hand gestures associated with the Gayatri, embodying deeper spiritual meanings.[12]
From: Yoga-sutras (with Bhoja鈥檚 Rajamartanda)
(1) A significant Mudra involving pressing the perineum and holding the wind above, promoting breath regulation.[13]
The concept of Mahamudra in local and regional sources
Mahamudra is a key practice in the Kagyud School of Tibetan Buddhism, focusing on understanding the mind's nature. It is outlined in the Vivekamartanda and is believed to heal ailments and grant supernatural abilities.
From: History of Science in South Asia
(1) This is a practice that is described in the Vivekamartanda, and its benefits are described as curing various diseases and bringing supernatural powers, according to the provided text.[14]