Meaning & Definition of word "Samsara"

Samsara

/səmˈsɑːrə/

noun:

  • 1. In Hinduism and Buddhism, the cycle of birth, life, death, and rebirth.
    • Example: The concept of samsara teaches that all beings are trapped in a cycle of suffering until they attain enlightenment.
  • 2. The continuous cycle of existence characterized by the transmigration of souls.
    • Example: Many believe that understanding samsara is essential to achieving liberation from worldly attachments.
  • 3. The state of living in the material world, often associated with suffering and impermanence.
    • Example: In his teachings, the monk discussed how to transcend samsara by letting go of desires.

Etymology

From Sanskrit 'saṃsāra', meaning 'flowing together'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

escape from samsara:

To attain liberation from the cycle of birth and rebirth.

samsara and nirvana:

Contrasting concepts where samsara represents the cycle of life and nirvana signifies liberation.

Related Words

nirvana:

State of liberation and freedom from suffering.

karma:

The sum of a person's actions in this and previous states of existence.

Slang Meanings of samsara

Meaning: The never-ending cycle.

Example Sentence: Life feels like one big samsara, repeating the same struggles.