Significance of Namarupa
Namarupa is a key concept in Buddhist philosophy that represents the dual aspects of existence, encompassing both mental (nama) and physical (rupa) phenomena. It emphasizes the interrelationship of mind and body, illustrating how consciousness shapes these components of reality. Across various traditions, Namarupa signifies the conditioned nature of living beings, highlighting the interplay of mental states and physical forms. Understanding Namarupa is fundamental to grasping the nuances of existence, perception, and the path toward enlightenment.
Synonyms: Name and form, Identity, Nomenclature, Representation
In Dutch: Namarupa; In German: Namarupa; In Finnish: Namarupa; In Spanish: Namarupa
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Namarupa'
Namarupa in Buddhism refers to the dual aspects of existence—mental (nama) and physical (rupa)—which together constitute a being's reality, arising from consciousness and fundamentally shaping experiences and perceptions in the cycle of samsara.
From: A Discourse on Paticcasamuppada
(1) The concept in Buddhism referring to the mind and matter, signifying the conditioned existence of beings.[1] (2) The concept in Buddhism meaning mental and physical phenomena, important in understanding life and consciousness.[2] (3) The combination of 'nama' (name or mental phenomena) and 'rupa' (form or physical phenomena), referring to the dual aspects of existence.[3] (4) The combination of mental and physical aspects that form the foundation for various mental processes and experiences.[4] (5) The combination of mental properties (nama) and physical form (rupa), essential for the experience of seeing.[5]
From: Maha Buddhavamsa—The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) The concept of mental and corporeal elements that one must cut off to attain freedom from suffering.[6] (2) The duality of name and form in Buddhist philosophy, representing mental and physical phenomena.[7]
From: The Doctrine of Paticcasamuppada
(1) Nama Rupa encompasses mind and matter, arising from consciousness, representing the duality of mental and physical existence.[8] (2) Name and form, the aspect of existence characterized by mental and physical constituents.[9]
From: Introducing Buddhist Abhidhamma
(1) Mental and physical phenomena that constitute individual existence, arising as a result of consciousness.[10]
From: Patthana Dhamma
(1) The combination of mind and materiality in Buddhist philosophy.[11]
From: Patipada (path of practice)
(1) The concept of name and form, representing the components of individual existence affected by avijja.[12]
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) Name and form; the combination of mental and physical components of a being that arises as a result of consciousness.[13]
From: Apadana commentary (Atthakatha)
(1) The concept of name and form; represents the dual aspects of existence in Buddhist philosophy.[14]
Hindu concept of 'Namarupa'
Namarupa in Hinduism signifies the duality of name (nama) and form (rupa), illustrating their interdependent nature while emphasizing the permanence of Brahman, showing that only names and forms are transient.
From: Bhagavad-gita-rahasya (or Karma-yoga Shastra)
(1) Refers to the Name and Form that define perceptible objects in the universe, which are ultimately illusory according to Vedanta.[15] (2) The concept of Names and Forms which characterize the material world and serve as coverings over the eternal Brahman.[16]
From: Bhesajjakkhandhaka (Chapter on Medicine)
(1) A Buddhist term indicating the interrelation of mentality (nama) and materiality (rupa), emphasizing non-duality.[17] (2) The term denoting the interdependent nature of the mind (nama) and body (rupa) in Buddhism.[18]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad Bhashya Vartika
(1) Nama-rupa refers to the concept of name and form, which is used to encapsulate the beginningless ajnana or ignorance.[19]
The concept of Namarupa in local and regional sources
Namarupa signifies the interplay of name and form, encapsulating the essence of perception within Maya. It highlights how names evoke mental concepts, illustrating the relationship between language, identity, and the nature of reality.
From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda
(1) This is the work of name and form, and everything that has form and calls up an idea in your mind is within Maya.[20]