365betÓéÀÖ

Significance of Real entity

In Tibetan Buddhism, the keyphrase "Real entity" refers to an actual existence that can be distinctly recognized, contrasting with mere concepts. This entity is believed to possess a defined identity, acknowledged through cognition, and serves as the basis for understanding relationships and qualifications. In other traditions such as Purana and Mahayana, Real entity signifies the ultimate truth or reality, often equated with the essence of the soul or God, highlighting a stable existence beyond impermanence.

Synonyms: Actual entity, True entity, Existing entity, Actual being, Genuine presence

In Dutch: Echte entiteit; In Finnish: Todellinen kokonaisuus; In Spanish: Entidad real; In German: Reale Entität

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

Buddhist concept of 'Real entity'

Buddhism Books

In Buddhism, "Real entity" signifies tangible, cognizable objects or concepts with valid existence, contrasting with mere ideas. It underscores the importance of actual existence and its recognition, distinguishing between reality and theoretical constructs.

Significance in Tibetan Buddhism (Vajrayana or tantric Buddhism):
Tibetan Buddhism Books

From: Tattvasangraha [with commentary]

(1) An actual object as it exists independently, which is not fully captured in the cognitive process of remembrance.[1] (2) A term used to argue for the existence of the connection, implying that it is an actual and significant aspect of understanding language.[2] (3) An existing thing that can be confirmed through observation or experience.[3] (4) An actual, existent feature or characteristic that can be recognized within its whole context.[4] (5) An actual object or thing that exists in reality, serving as a foundation for understanding relations and qualifications.[5]

Tibetan Buddhism includes schools such as Nyingma, Kadampa, Kagyu and Gelug. Their primary canon of literature is divided in two broad categories: The Kangyur, which consists of Buddha’s words, and the Tengyur, which includes commentaries from various sources. Esotericism and tantra techniques (vajrayana) are collected indepently.

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

From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra

(1) A true and stable existence; in contrast to conditioned phenomena, which are inherently impermanent.[6]

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.

Hindu concept of 'Real entity'

Hinduism Books

In Hinduism, the Real entity signifies the ultimate essence, God, beyond physical form, recognized as the true Self. It represents the constant reality underlying all existence, sought by those on a spiritual journey.

Significance in Purana and Itihasa (epic history):
Purana Books

From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4

(1) An existence that can be positively affirmed; in this context, the text argues that neither the mind nor the physical world qualifies as such.[7] (2) God is described as the true essence or fundamental reality beyond physical existence.[8]

From: Anugita (English translation)

(1) The ultimate essence of existence, beyond the perceptual and material, as understood in philosophical discussions.[9] (2) The ultimate truth or reality that is sought after by individuals on a spiritual path.[10]

From: Mahabharata (English)

(1) The ultimate truth or existence, specifically the Soul, which is the essence of all beings.[11]

The Purana refers to Sanskrit literature preserving ancient India’s vast cultural history, including historical legends, religious ceremonies, various arts and sciences. The eighteen mahapuranas total over 400,000 shlokas (metrical couplets) and date to at least several centuries BCE.

Significance in Dharmashastra (religious law):
Dharmashastra Books

From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi

(1) A genuine and singular existence recognized by the wise as the ultimate reality, which is the Self.[12]

Dharmashastra contains the instructions (shastra) regarding religious conduct of livelihood (dharma), ceremonies, jurisprudence (study of law) and more. It is categorized as smriti, an important and authoritative selection of books dealing with the Hindu lifestyle.

Significance in Vedanta (school of philosophy):
Vedanta Books

From: Mandukya Upanishad

(1) A being or object that possesses existence and can be acknowledged as real.[13]

Vedanta refers to a school of orthodox Hindu philosophy (astika), drawing its subject-matter from the Upanishads. There are a number of sub-schools of Vedanta, however all of them expound on the basic teaching of the ultimate reality (brahman) and liberation (moksha) of the individual soul (atman).