Significance of Aphorism
The term "Aphorism" encompasses concise statements or principles across various philosophical and religious contexts in Indian traditions. In Jainism, it encapsulates core teachings found in the Tattvarthasutra, while in Purana, it conveys fundamental truths relevant to dharma and brahma. Aphorisms in Yoga are designed to clarify complex concepts, and in Ayurveda, they articulate essential concepts memorably. Additionally, Vyakarana discusses grammatical rules through aphorisms, and Shaivism features them in sutras needing deeper understanding. Overall, aphorisms serve as succinct expressions of general truths across diverse disciplines.
Synonyms: Saying, Proverb, Motto
In Dutch: Aforisme; In Finnish: Aforismi; In Spanish: Aforismo; In German: Aphorismus
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Aphorism'
In Hinduism, aphorisms serve as concise principles that elucidate complex ideas across various texts like the Yogasutra and Ayurvedic works, expressing fundamental truths and requiring careful interpretation within philosophical, grammatical, and dharmic contexts.
From: Yoga-sutras (with Bhoja’s Rajamartanda)
(1) Concise statements or principles presented in the Yogasutra that aim to clarify complex philosophical concepts in a succinct manner.[1]
From: Yoga-sutras (with Vyasa and Vachaspati Mishra)
(1) A concise statement or principle that expresses a general truth or philosophical insight, particularly relevant in the discussion of effective causes.[2]
From: History of Indian Medicine (and Ayurveda)
(1) Concise statements or principles found in Ayurvedic texts, conveying fundamental concepts in a memorable way.[3]
From: Bhagavad-gita-rahasya (or Karma-yoga Shastra)
(1) 'Aphorisms' are concise statements or principles that convey fundamental truths, referenced in the context of studying dharma and brahma.[4]
From: Khadira-grihya-sutra
(1) Brief statements or principles in the Grihya-sutras that convey significant meaning, from which the Khadira-Grihya derives many.[5]
Jain concept of 'Aphorism'
In Jainism, aphorism signifies succinct statements in the Tattvarthasutra that distill the fundamental teachings and philosophical principles of the religion, serving as essential guidelines for practitioners.
From: Tattvartha Sutra (with commentary)
(1) Concise statements or principles found in Tattvarthasutra, encapsulating the core teachings and philosophical doctrines of Jainism.[6]
The concept of Aphorism in local and regional sources
Aphorism is defined as a brief, impactful statement that conveys a universal truth or principle, reflecting wisdom in a concise form, often used to provoke thought or inspire insight.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) A concise statement that expresses a general truth or principle.[7]
From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda
(1) These are concise statements or principles of Patanjali that form the highest authority and textbook on Raja-Yoga, and they are a central component of the system.[8]