Significance of Self-understanding
Self-understanding encompasses various interpretations across different traditions. In Purana, it involves perceiving one's experiences, while Vedanta emphasizes realizing true identity and comprehending one's essence. Theravada highlights a profound vision of the universe and intrinsic wisdom. Historical perspectives stress the necessity for personal reflection and deep self-knowledge, as illustrated by figures like Jocelin and Iqbal. Lastly, science relates self-understanding to spiritual healing in Ayurveda, suggesting it involves deep awareness of mental and physical states, revealing its multifaceted nature.
Synonyms: Self-awareness, Introspection, Self-reflection, Self-knowledge, Self-perception, Self-insight, Self-discovery, Self-realization
In Dutch: Zelfinzicht; In Finnish: ±õ³Ù²õ±ð²â³¾³¾Ã¤°ù°ù²â²õ; In Spanish: ´¡³Ü³Ù´Ç³¦´Ç³¾±è°ù±ð²Ô²õ¾±Ã³²Ô; In German: ³§±ð±ô²ú²õ³Ù±¹±ð°ù²õ³Ùä²Ô»å²Ô¾±²õ; In Malay: Pemahaman diri; In Swedish: ³§Âáä±ô±¹´Úö°ù²õ³ÙÃ¥±ð±ô²õ±ð; In French: Compréhension de soi
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Self-understanding'
Self-understanding in Buddhism encompasses personal wisdom that remains unchanged despite physical growth and the profound insight of the Blessed One, who perceives the universe and all its beings clearly and comprehensively.
From: Vinaya (2): The Mahavagga
(1) The Blessed One's capability to thoroughly understand and see the universe face to face, encompassing all beings and realms.[1]
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) The wisdom and knowledge a person possesses; in the context of the verse, it does not grow despite physical growth.[2]
Hindu concept of 'Self-understanding'
Self-understanding in Hinduism involves recognizing personal experiences, delving deeper to grasp the essence of the Self beyond surface reflections, and realizing one’s identity in the context of the broader concept of the Self.
From: Chandogya Upanishad (Shankara Bhashya)
(1) The comprehension or realization of one's identity, particularly in relation to the concept of the Self.[3]
From: Chandogya Upanishad (english Translation)
(1) The process of comprehending what the Self truly is beyond superficial reflections.[4]
From: Anugita (English translation)
(1) Perception within one's own self regarding agreeable and disagreeable experiences.[5]
The concept of Self-understanding in local and regional sources
Self-understanding encompasses a journey of self-discovery, linking literature, identity, and philosophical introspection while emphasizing personal clarity and connection to others, as seen in various perspectives including Nehru, Nagnath, Ahalya, and Iqbal.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) Ahalya's assertion that understanding one another goes beyond societal norms and judgments.[6] (2) The process of realizing one's own identity and purpose, particularly as experienced by Jocelin on his death-bed.[7] (3) The journey towards knowing oneself more profoundly and deeply.[8] (4) The process by which literature helps individuals understand themselves and their place in the world, integral to Nehru's views.[9] (5) The recognition and comprehension of one's identity, posited by Iqbal as crucial for understanding God.[10]
From: Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints
(1) The goal of Nagnath in aiding Bahirambhat, focusing on removing doubts and misunderstandings about personal identity.[11]