Nirvana is the ultimate goal in several Indian religions, most prominently in Buddhism. It refers to the end of suffering and the cessation of the cycle of rebirth (samsara), achieved through the extinguishing of the “poisons” or mental afflictions. When these afflictions are uprooted, the causes of suffering disappear, and one enters a state of lasting peace, clarity, and freedom. Key aspects

• In Buddhism: Nirvana signifies the cessation of craving, hatred, and delusion, leading to liberation from rebirth and suffering. It is described as the unconditioned, ultimate peace that can be realized in this life or beyond, depending on tradition. Parinirvana refers to the final nirvana attained at the death of someone who has already achieved nirvana in this life.
• In Hinduism and Jainism: The term nirvana is sometimes used to describe a state of moksha or liberation, a complete freedom from the cycle of birth and death, though the exact understanding varies by tradition.
• Etymology: The term derives from Sanskrit (nirvāṇa), literally meaning “extinction” or “blowing out,” often likened to extinguishing a flame.

Common points across traditions

• End of cyclic existence: A state beyond repeated birth and death.
• Transformation of mind: Requires uprooting fundamental mental afflictions and misperceptions.
• Experiential nature: Nirvana is described as a direct, experiential realization, rather than a theoretical concept.

Translations and variants

• In Pali sources, the term is nibbāna, used in Theravāda contexts.
• In Mahāyāna and Vajrayāna traditions, nirvāṇa is often discussed alongside bodhicitta and the path to complete Buddhahood.
• Some Hindu and Jain texts equate nirvana with moksha or other liberation terms, though nuances differ by school.

If you’d like, I can tailor this explanation to a specific tradition (Theravāda, Mahāyāna, Vajrayāna, Hinduism, or Jainism) or provide quotes from reputable sources in your preferred language.