Significance of Contemplation
Contemplation is a significant practice across various traditions, emphasizing deep reflection, meditation, and focused thought. In Buddhism, it involves examining thoughts and achieving spiritual understanding, while Jainism emphasizes deep reflective thought for awareness. Tibetan Buddhism identifies contemplation as a meditative focus for insight. Similarly, Vaishnavism and Vedanta highlight deep reflection on spiritual subjects, including Brahman. In Dharmashastra and Theravada, it serves as a means to understand the Inner Soul and reality. Ultimately, contemplation fosters greater awareness and spiritual depth.
Synonyms: Reflection, Meditation, Consideration, Pondering, Thoughtfulness, Deliberation, Rumination, Introspection., Introspection, Musing, Cogitation
In French: Contemplation; In Dutch: Overpeinzing; In Finnish: Miettiminen; In Spanish: 颁辞苍迟别尘辫濒补肠颈贸苍; In German: Betrachtung; In Malay: Renungan; In Swedish: Begrundande
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Contemplation'
Contemplation in Buddhism involves deep, focused meditation aimed at gaining insight into dhamma, fostering spiritual understanding, and reflecting on one鈥檚 thoughts and actions, ultimately guiding practitioners toward enlightenment and mastery of reality.
From: A Discourse on Paticcasamuppada
(1) Deep, reflective thought aimed toward understanding dhamma and developing spiritual insight, especially relevant to those on the Ariyan path.[1] (2) The practice of focused attention that reveals distinct phases of mental processes such as feeling, craving, and clinging.[2] (3) The act of deeply reflecting on the nature of reality and one's experiences, which is emphasized as a pathway to attain the holy path in meditation.[3]
From: Patipada (path of practice)
(1) Contemplation is a mental process involving deep and prolonged thought, which is suggested as a natural inclination for those who practice the way, particularly in the context of analysis.[4]
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) Contemplation refers to the deep reflective practice wherein Dharmaruci reflects on his past actions and ultimately reaches arhathood.[5] (2) The deep reflective thought process through which the ascetic seeks understanding and freedom from matter.[6]
From: Bodhisattvacharyavatara
(1) The process of deeply considering the essential meaning of a text to resolve questions and doubts during study.[7]
From: Bodhinyana
(1) The process of reflecting on and examining one鈥檚 thoughts and emotions to gain deeper insights into their nature and origin.[8]
From: Apadana commentary (Atthakatha)
(1) A state of deep thinking and focus, pursued by the young prince as he seeks spiritual understanding.[9]
Hindu concept of 'Contemplation'
In Hinduism, Contemplation encompasses dhyana, meditation on Brahman, and the distinction between soul and attributes. It fosters inner peace, wisdom, and spiritual awareness through focused reflection, vital for recognizing the Inner Soul and achieving higher states of existence.
From: Taittiriya Upanishad
(1) The meditation or focused reflection on the nature of Brahman to attain inner peace and wisdom.[10]
From: Chandogya Upanishad (Shankara Bhashya)
(1) The act of deep reflection aimed at understanding and experiencing the essence of Brahman in the heart.[11]
From: Thirty minor Upanishads
(1) dhyana, where the mind is engaged in deep, reflective thought.[12]
From: Brahma Sutras (Shankaracharya)
(1) This is the act of focusing on something, such as Vishnu in an image, as mentioned in the text.[13]
From: Yoga-sutras (with Vyasa and Vachaspati Mishra)
(1) A significant spiritual practice mentioned as a means of sustenance and bliss for the divine beings, leading to higher states of existence.[14] (2) The primary meaning of Yoga, indicating a meditative state of focused attention.[15]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) The act of deep reflective thinking that is integral for recognizing the Inner Soul.[16] (2) A practice that involves reflecting on the distinction between the soul and attributes, aiming to understand that attributes like happiness and unhappiness are not inherent to the soul.[17]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) The act of deep reflective thought, especially on a spiritual or philosophical matter.[18]
From: Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu
(1) Indicates the mental focus or reflection associated with the term mati, suggesting a depth of thought.[19]
Jain concept of 'Contemplation'
In Jainism, Contemplation is a focused meditative practice undertaken by monks and nuns, emphasizing deep reflection on particular subjects to foster understanding, awareness, and spiritual growth along their journey.
From: Tattvartha Sutra (with commentary)
(1) Deep reflective thought or meditation on specific subjects, aimed at achieving understanding and awareness.[20]
From: Acaranga-sutra
(1) A method of focused reflection or meditation that monks or nuns engage in during their journey.[21]
The concept of Contemplation in local and regional sources
Contemplation involves deep reflective thought, often undervalued socially, yet appreciated in refined circles. It serves as a precursor to action, balances reflection with responsibility, and can inspire emotional expression, especially concerning divine themes.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) This can be a pre-requisite to action, and it should not be used as a method to avoid responsibilities of actions, implying a need for balance between thought and deeds.[22] (2) The act of deep reflective thought, perceived negatively by society but valued in cultivated circles.[23] (3) The reflective thought upon an emotion, leading to its expression in poetry.[24]
From: Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints
(1) Deep reflection and focus on a specific subject, akin to a miser's concentrated attention on his wealth.[25] (2) Deep reflective thought, particularly about divine matters, interrupted by his wife's actions.[26]