Significance of Masses
The term "masses" in the context of Mahayana Buddhism refers to the large population of beings that Bodhisattvas seek to uplift through education and compassion. Historically, it encompasses the general population in India, often lacking in philosophical understanding and easily swayed. Swami Vivekananda emphasized the importance of educating and caring for these neglected individuals to foster societal regeneration. The text highlights that the welfare and awakening of the masses are crucial for real progress and genuine representation in the country鈥檚 political and social landscape.
Synonyms: Assemblies
In Dutch: Massa's; In Finnish: Massat; In Spanish: Masas
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Masses'
In Buddhism, "Masses" signifies the vast population of sentient beings that Bodhisattvas seek to assist, emphasizing their commitment to spreading understanding and teachings to alleviate suffering and promote enlightenment.
From: Mahayana Mahaparinirvana Sutra
(1) The large population of beings that the Bodhisattvas aim to help through their understanding and teachings.[1]
The concept of Masses in local and regional sources
The keyphrase "Masses" encompasses various interpretations of the general population, emphasizing their role in political movements, societal upliftment, and spiritual awareness, while highlighting their potential for awakening and the necessity of education and reform for meaningful progress.
From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda
(1) This is the group of people that Swami Vivekananda believes are neglected, and he wants to educate and care for them to regenerate India.[2] (2) This refers to the group of people the author had a plan for, but gave up at present, but believes it will come by degrees.[3] (3) The awakening of the masses must come first, and then only can any real good come about for the country.[4] (4) The masses have been hypnotised for ages into that state, and to touch them is pollution, to sit with them is pollution![5] (5) The masses are the people who benefited from the heaven that Buddhism brought, which made Indian society so great.[6]
From: Triveni Journal
(1) These people are served by the follower of Gandhian socialism, as they begin to control their share of the means of production for the public good.[7] (2) The masses are to secure the intelligent interest of the enlightened, and the enthusiastic co-operation of the masses, all over the State for the further steps in the implementation of the Plan as part of a national movement for reconstruction.[8] (3) Refers to the general public who may feel isolated or superfluous in society.[9] (4) The general population, particularly in the context of political movements, where their participation is crucial for genuine representation.[10]
From: Bede's Ecclesiastical History of England
(1) Masses were religious services performed by Tunna, which were believed to have a direct effect on the miraculous events surrounding Imma's captivity.[11]