Significance of Mixed character
Mixed character in Buddhism encompasses a range of interpretations across different traditions. It refers to the diversity found in Buddhist texts in China, various traits in Tibetan Buddhism, and the blending of concepts that challenge classification. Additionally, it describes the eclectic nature of the Matsya Purana and the dual characteristics of Maharloka, along with asterisms in Jyotisha producing varied effects. In Dharmashastra, it highlights actions embodying both virtue and vice, reflecting the complexity of moral assessments.
Synonyms: Varied character, Diverse character, Composite character
In Dutch: Gemengd karakter; In Finnish: Sekalainen luonne; In Spanish: Carácter mixto; In German: Gemischter Charakter
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Mixed character'
The concept of Mixed character in Buddhism encompasses the heterogeneous nature of substances, combining various traits simultaneously, and highlights the complexity of entities possessing both eternal and perishable qualities, reflecting diverse interpretations found in Buddhist texts.
From: Tattvasangraha [with commentary]
(1) Describes the heterogeneous nature of certain substances, like medicinal preparations, made up of different types of atoms or characteristics.[1] (2) Describes an entity that possesses both eternal and perishable characteristics, thereby complicating its classification.[2] (3) A state of an entity that possesses both general and particular traits, which can be perceived simultaneously.[3] (4) ‘Mixed character� describes objects or concepts that possess qualities from multiple categories, which is essential for further discussion and analysis in the text.[4] (5) A hypothetical idea of a meaning that combines varying elements, exemplified in the text as a concept that should be perceivable but is not.[5]
From: The Fo-Sho-Hing-Tsan-King (A Life of Buddha)
(1) The diversity found within Buddhist texts in China, which complicates their classification and understanding.[6]
Hindu concept of 'Mixed character'
In Hinduism, "Mixed character" signifies actions embodying both virtue and vice, asterisms exhibiting dual effects, the eclecticism of the Matsya Purana, and Maharloka's blend of transient and eternal qualities.
From: Vishnu Purana
(1) Describes Maharloka, which, although deserted at the end of a Kalpa, is not destroyed and combines characteristics of both transient and eternal realms.[7] (2) A descriptor for the Matsya Purana indicating its eclectic nature, combining elements of various texts rather than presenting a singular narrative.[8]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) This term refers to actions that possess qualities of both virtue and vice, suggesting that moral assessments can be complex and dependent on context.[9]
From: Brihat Samhita
(1) Describes asterisms that produce effects of both soft and sharp nature.[10]