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Significance of Perpetual existence

According to Mahayana philosophy, perpetual existence is the concept that an entity can persist indefinitely without originating from a source. This idea challenges traditional notions of existence tied to beginnings or origins, suggesting that existence does not necessarily require a cause. This perspective plays a significant role in understanding the nature of reality and existence within Mahayana teachings, emphasizing the potential for enduring states beyond conventional dependencies.

Synonyms: Eternal existence, Everlasting existence, Infinite existence, Timeless existence, Eternal life, Endless existence, Everlasting life, Immortality, Timelessness

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Buddhist concept of 'Perpetual existence'

Buddhism Books

In Buddhism, perpetual existence suggests the concept of an entity that continues indefinitely without needing a specific source or cause, highlighting the nature of existence as eternal and unconditioned, unlike transient phenomena.

Significance in Mahayana (major branch of Buddhism):
Mahayana Books

From: Mulamadhyamaka-karika (English)

(1) The idea that something could continue existing indefinitely without a source.[1]

Mahayana is a major branch of Buddhism focusing on the path of a Bodhisattva (spiritual aspirants/ enlightened beings). Extant literature is vast and primarely composed in the Sanskrit language. There are many sutras of which some of the earliest are the various Prajnaparamita sutras.