Significance of Mental strength
Mental strength is a multifaceted concept with various interpretations across different disciplines. In Arthashastra, it represents a king's cognitive resilience enhanced by ministerial advice. Purana focuses on the emotional endurance of characters like Draupadi. Yoga emphasizes cognitive power gained through concentration, while Vedanta highlights self-control and thought management. Dharmashastra links it to mental and spiritual endurance via rituals. Scientific perspectives emphasize psychological resilience for coping with stress. Overall, mental strength reflects emotional and cognitive resilience crucial for personal growth and overcoming challenges.
Synonyms: Resilience, Determination, Fortitude, Discipline, Willpower, Tenacity, Resolve, Mental toughness, Perseverance, Mental stamina, Inner strength
In Dutch: Mentale kracht; In Finnish: Henkinen voima; In Spanish: Fuerza mental; In German: Mentale Stärke
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Mental strength'
In Hinduism, mental strength encompasses cognitive resilience, strategic thinking, self-control, emotional management, and spiritual endurance, emphasizing personal growth, overcoming challenges, and inner capacity for enduring hardships, exemplified by figures like Draupadi.
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) Describes Draupadi's ability to endure grief and manage emotional turmoil in the face of tragedy.[1]
From: Chandogya Upanishad (english Translation)
(1) The inner capacity to manage one’s thoughts and feelings. It is essential for practicing self-control and overcoming temptations, forming the basis of brahmacarya.[2]
From: Yoga-sutras (Vedanta Commentaries)
(1) The cognitive power acquired through concentration exercises, intended for practical application in personal growth.[3]
From: Bharadvaja-srauta-sutra
(1) The mental and spiritual endurance intended to be preserved through specific ritual actions and verbal formulas.[4]
The concept of Mental strength in local and regional sources
Mental strength is the mind's power to overcome challenges, dismiss illness, and combat negative thoughts and emotions, ultimately fostering healing and resilience in the face of adversity.
From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda
(1) This is the power of the mind, that can brush aside illness, and should be used to overcome negative thoughts and feelings, promoting the ability to heal.[5]