Significance of Right understanding
Right understanding is a fundamental concept in various spiritual traditions, particularly Buddhism. It involves the accurate perception of reality, which leads to liberation from suffering and a fulfilling spiritual journey. This comprehension encompasses recognizing the nature of thoughts, feelings, and the truths of existence, including impermanence and non-self. Right understanding fosters insight that helps discern wholesome from unwholesome actions, essential for developing wisdom and compassionate living. It is considered the first step in the Noble Eightfold Path, pivotal for achieving enlightenment and reducing ignorance.
Synonyms: Accurate interpretation, Sound understanding, Clear perception, Insightful knowledge, Accurate perception, True insight
In Dutch: Juist begrip; In Finnish: Oikea ymmÀrrys; In Spanish: Entendimiento correcto; In German: Richtiges VerstÀndnis; In Swedish: RÀtt förstÄelse; In Malay: Kefahaman yang betul; In French: Bonne compréhension
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Right understanding'
Right understanding in Buddhism entails comprehending the nature of reality, including impermanence and non-self. It is essential for developing wisdom, reducing ignorance, and progressing on the path to enlightenment, ultimately aiding in the eradication of suffering.
From: Cetasikas
(1) A concept that emphasizes a clear comprehension of the realities of kusala and akusala, leading to the development of moral shame and fear of blame.[1] (2) The development of insight that helps eradicate defilements and assists moral conduct.[2] (3) Comprehension of reality which is essential for the eradication of wrong views and ultimately for achieving enlightenment.[3] (4) The correct perception of reality in accordance with the Buddha's teachings, pivotal in the Eightfold Path.[4] (5) The clear comprehension of reality as it is, crucial for the development of wholesome qualities.[5]
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) Correct comprehension of the nature of reality.[6] (2) A crucial aspect of the Buddhist path that entails understanding the true nature of suffering, its causes, and the way to overcome it.[7] (3) The proper comprehension of truths that lead to liberation from suffering, as taught by the Buddha.[8] (4) The comprehension of the nature of the world as unstable and sorrowful, which led Prince Siddhatta to leave his home.[9]
From: Abhidhamma in Daily Life
(1) Seeing nama (mental phenomena) and rupa (physical phenomena) as they truly are: impermanent, dukkha, and anatta, forming the basis for true insight.[10] (2) The clear comprehension of the nature of reality, particularly concerning the concepts of impermanence, suffering, and non-self.[11] (3) A deep comprehension of the nature of wholesome and unwholesome actions and the characteristics of mental states.[12]
From: Visuddhimagga (the pah of purification)
(1) The clarity in perceiving the nature of kamma, its results, and the absence of a self apart from these processes.[13] (2) The correct perception of the nature of existence and the relationship between causes and effects, essential for overcoming erroneous views about reality.[14]
From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) The clear differentiation and comprehension required to avoid confusion, similar to that exhibited by the brothers regarding the Judas tree.[15]
From: A Manual of Abhidhamma
(1) The comprehension of the true nature of phenomena, facilitating the elimination of ignorance.[16]
From: The Doctrine of Paticcasamuppada
(1) The correct comprehension of the Paticcasamuppada and its implications for achieving enlightenment.[17]
From: Introducing Buddhist Abhidhamma
(1) Also known as samma-ditthi, it represents the first step in understanding the nature of reality in Buddhism, integral to Buddhist Practice.[18]
From: Abhidhamma in Daily Life (by Ashin Janakabhivamsa)
(1) The view that is just and righteous, known as samma ditthi.[19]
From: Maha BuddhavamsaâThe Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) An essential part of the Buddha's teachings describing correct insight into the nature of reality, emphasizing impermanence and non-self.[20]
From: Bodhinyana
(1) The correct perception and comprehension of the nature of suffering and the path to freedom from it, which is crucial for achieving liberation.[21] (2) Right understanding is the accurate perception of reality that leads to liberation from suffering and fulfillment of the spiritual path.[22] (3) The insight that facilitates liberation from suffering.[23] (4) An accurate comprehension that aligns with the nature of reality, leading to realizations of emptiness.[24] (5) An essential principle in Buddhism that supports a peaceful heart; recognizing the nature of thoughts and feelings as they are.[25]
From: Shurangama Sutra (with commentary) (English)
(1) The correct perception and comprehension of truth and reality, leading to wisdom and enlightenment.[26]
From: Akshayamatinirdesha [english]
(1) The provided text explains that right understanding is essential for the imperishable intention, as hypocrisy and pretense arise from perverted viewpoints, emphasizing the importance of genuine comprehension.[27]
Hindu concept of 'Right understanding'
Right understanding in Hinduism encompasses accurate comprehension of language, dispelling ignorance, grasping Dharma, insight into truth, and clarity that liberates from worldly fears, ultimately leading to personal transformation and enlightenment.
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) The correct perception or insight that liberates individuals from the fears and illusions of the world.[28] (2) A clear, accurate grasp of spiritual concepts that leads to enlightenment and personal transformation.[29] (3) A perspective that recognizes the futility of worldly desires and enables indifference to the dualities of life.[30] (4) The cognitive clarity that allows an individual to perceive the transient nature of the world and distinguish between reality and illusion.[31] (5) A state of clarity and enlightenment that arises from correct reasoning and knowledge, leading to the perception of truth.[32]
From: Mandukya Upanishad (Gaudapa Karika and Shankara Bhashya)
(1) The comprehension of the non-dual Atman that eliminates the need for the devotional practices described in the text.[33]
From: Chandogya Upanishad (english Translation)
(1) The ability to assess what to do in the present based on past experiences and future plans.[34]
From: Brahma Sutras (Shankaracharya)
(1) The proper comprehension and interpretation of the philosophical doctrine set forth in the text.[35]
From: Hayanaratna: The Jewel of Annual Astrology
(1) The capacity for clear and accurate thinking, which can be enhanced or diminished based on astrological influences.[36] (2) If the inthiha is in the fifth [house] in the revolution of the year, there is gain of right understanding, happiness, children and wealth, increase of prowess, varied delights, veneration of gods and Brahmans, and the favour of the king.[37]
From: The Sarva-Darsana-Samgraha
(1) An essential step toward inference and gaining knowledge of the universal proposition (vyapti).[38]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) Grasping the principles of Dharma correctly, which is essential for fulfillment of human ends.[39]
Jain concept of 'Right understanding'
Right understanding in Jainism is the enlightened perception of one's thoughts, desires, and actions, facilitating self-control over passions and guiding individuals toward ethical living and spiritual growth.
From: Sutrakritanga (English translation)
(1) A clear and enlightened perception of one's thoughts, desires, and actions, aiding in the practice of control over passions.[40]
The concept of Right understanding in local and regional sources
Right understanding is the initial step of the Noble Eightfold Path in Buddhism, emphasizing the accurate perception of reality, free from illusions, and is crucial for comprehending life's nature and the universeâs riddle.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) The capacity to perceive reality as it truly is, without illusions, considered essential in the Panna section of the Noble Eightfold Path.[41] (2) The first step of the Noble Eightfold Path that involves comprehending the nature of reality and life.[42] (3) A distinctive feature of Buddhism that involves comprehension of the universe's riddle, playing a crucial role in the practice of the Eight-fold Path.[43]
From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda
(1) Mrs. Bull suggested that the only panacea was a right understanding of the proper persons and then to find liberty in love and freedom in liberty and motherhood, brotherhood, fatherhood, Godhood, love in freedom and freedom in love, in the right holding up of the true ideal in sex.[44]