Significance of Spiritual knowledge
Spiritual knowledge encompasses a broad understanding of profound truths gained through various practices across different philosophical and religious traditions. In Jainism, it refers to wisdom attained through spiritual practices, while in Vaishnavism, it emphasizes insights into divine matters and devotion to the Supreme Lord. Other traditions, such as Yoga, Ayurveda, and Vedanta, highlight understanding derived from meditation, sacred texts, and spiritual practices that guide individuals toward enlightenment and liberation. Ultimately, spiritual knowledge transcends mundane learning, connecting individuals to deeper truths about existence and the divine.
Synonyms: Spiritual wisdom, Divine understanding, Metaphysical awareness, Transcendent knowledge, Inner truth, Sacred wisdom, Wisdom, Enlightenment, Awareness, Understanding, Insight, Consciousness, Esoteric knowledge, Mysticism, Self-realization.
In Dutch: Spirituele kennis; In Finnish: Henkinen tieto; In Spanish: Conocimiento espiritual; In German: Spirituelles Wissen; In Malay: Ilmu kerohanian; In Swedish: Andlig kunskap; In French: Connaissance spirituelle; In Finnish: Hengellinen tieto
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Spiritual knowledge'
Spiritual knowledge in Buddhism encompasses the understanding and wisdom regarding the essence of existence, guiding individuals on their journey toward enlightenment and deeper comprehension of life's true nature.
From: Maha Buddhavamsa—The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) Understanding and wisdom related to the nature of existence and the path to enlightenment.[1]
Hindu concept of 'Spiritual knowledge'
In Hinduism, spiritual knowledge encompasses the realization of the divine, understanding of the self, and insight into spiritual truths gained through devotion and worship, facilitating liberation from ignorance and guiding individuals towards enlightenment and self-realization.
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) Understanding of divine principles and truths that inform the conduct and thoughts of the enlightened.[2] (2) Insights or understanding pertaining to the divine or truths of existence, which lead to liberation (as learned by Kusala).[3] (3) The understanding and wisdom gained through the cultivation of one's awareness and intellect.[4] (4) The understanding of the only spirit, aiding in separating one's self from erroneous beliefs.[5] (5) The understanding that transcends the physical and material realities.[6]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) An understanding of spiritual matters that allows individuals to rise above emotional turmoil.[7] (2) Understanding and wisdom relating to spiritual principles and the nature of reality.[8] (3) Wisdom that transcends worldly understanding and is gained through insight and study.[9] (4) Understanding derived from spiritual practice and insight, often considered greater than mundane knowledge.[10] (5) The insight leveraged by the sage to understand the motivations of the transformed beast and to address him accordingly.[11]
From: Bhagavad-gita-rahasya (or Karma-yoga Shastra)
(1) The insights and teachings derived from the Gita, which aim to elevate and purify individuals spiritually.[12] (2) A form of knowledge primarily concerned with the understanding of spiritual truths and realities as discussed in texts like the Upanishads and Bhagavadgita.[13] (3) Understanding of the divine and the self that is crucial for liberation and guiding one’s actions according to spiritual principles.[14] (4) The understanding of the ultimate reality (Brahman) and self-awareness that leads to release.[15] (5) Understanding that transcends mechanical ritual, leading to wise action that aligns with deep personal and universal values.[16]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) The understanding and awareness gained through practice, good conduct, and the performance of Dharmic duties.[17] (2) Understanding the nature of existence, emphasized through the teachings of various scriptures.[18] (3) Understanding and wisdom that leads to enlightenment, often invoked during worship.[19] (4) The understanding of spiritual truths that transcends material existence.[20] (5) The essential understanding and respect for religious principles that Satyavrata is encouraged to maintain.[21]
From: Vishnu Purana
(1) Understanding that comes from deep meditation and contemplation, revealing insights about existence through internal awareness.[22] (2) The proficiency and understanding in spiritual matters exhibited by the kings of Mithila.[23] (3) Insight and understanding related to spirituality, often associated with achieving a higher state of being.[24] (4) The understanding and insight gained by Shatanika through the teachings of Shaunaka, emphasizing a departure from sensual enjoyments.[25] (5) The understanding and realization of spiritual truths, characterizing the connection between the divine and the material world.[26]
From: Harivamsha Purana
(1) Understanding gained through dedicated practice and study of the divine, crucial for realizing the Nature of Narayana.[27] (2) Higher understanding possessed by the Maharshis, recognized in the context of Krishna's greatness.[28] (3) Wisdom and teaching related to the divine, emphasized by Krishna's role as a guide during battles.[29] (4) Insight and understanding that enables an individual to realize their true nature and purpose.[30]
From: Garuda Purana
(1) Understanding gained through religious practices and teachings, leading to enlightenment and wisdom.[31] (2) Understanding and insight into spiritual truths, which is sought through worship and meditation.[32] (3) Understanding and awareness regarding spiritual matters and practices.[33]
From: Markandeya Purana
(1) The understanding and realization of one's soul and spiritual existence, which is encouraged during the bhikshu phase.[34] (2) Profound insights and understanding about existence and the divine, promised as a gift.[35]
From: Laghu-yoga-vasistha
(1) Insight into the nature of reality and the self, emphasizing experiential understanding over theoretical knowledge.[36]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) Understanding and insights related to spiritual truths and divine matters.[37] (2) Understanding gained from studying scriptures and engaging in spiritual practices, which is crucial for navigating material life.[38] (3) Understanding of transcendental concepts that surpasses mundane material knowledge.[39] (4) Understanding and teachings related to the realization of Krishna and the practices that lead to love and devotion.[40] (5) Understanding and wisdom relating to the soul, divinity, and transcendental truths.[41]
From: Tiruvaymoli (Thiruvaimozhi): English translation
(1) Knowledge that pertains to the understanding and practice of spiritual beliefs and truths.[42] (2) The understanding and awareness of spiritual truths and principles that differ among individuals.[43] (3) The wisdom imparted by Lord Krishna, essential for understanding the nature of the Supreme Lord and the individual soul.[44] (4) The understanding and insight granted to the Alvar by the Lord, enabling him to fully comprehend and interpret divine truths.[45] (5) The essential insights and understanding of spirituality imparted by preceptors to their disciples, fostering their growth in faith and wisdom.[46]
From: Sri Krishna-Chaitanya
(1) The enriched understanding and wisdom related to the divine, stressed as essential for true liberation.[47] (2) The highest interest and necessity of the Brahmana, differentiating him from the ignorant.[48] (3) Insight into the nature of God and existence, which is essential for understanding divine interactions.[49] (4) The understanding and insights gained from sacred texts and teachings that guide one’s spiritual journey.[50] (5) Understanding that is derived from the practices and teachings prescribed by spiritual leaders.[51]
From: Bhajana-Rahasya
(1) Understanding and wisdom related to the nature of reality and the divine, as conveyed through religious texts.[52] (2) The understanding and insight gained through connection to the holy name, viewed as accessible and profound.[53] (3) Refers to the understanding and realization obtained through devotional practices, emphasizing love and devotion (prema-bhakti) as its essence.[54]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) The understanding and insight gained through devotion and practices directed towards realizing the Supreme Personality of Godhead.[55] (2) Understanding of transcendental truth (tattva-jnana) that can be attained through correct practices and initiation, highlighted in the implication of the text.[56]
From: Srila Gurudeva (The Supreme Treasure)
(1) Knowledge that is essential in the process of sadhana leading to bhakti.[57] (2) The understanding and teachings that connect followers to the transcendental realm and Krishna.[58]
From: Chaitanya Mangala
(1) Understanding and wisdom related to spirituality and divine matters.[59] (2) A virtue possessed by Vishvarupa, indicating his understanding of spiritual truths and scriptures.[60]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) Understanding and insight into the spiritual truths and principles.[61]
From: Prem Sagar (English translation)
(1) Understanding the true nature of Krishna and devotion can lead to meaningful worship and deliverance.[62]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad Bhashya Vartika
(1) Understanding that relates to the spiritual domain, which the phrase 'I am food' seeks to emphasize.[63] (2) The understanding and wisdom gained through the meditation on Brahman, leading to greater realization.[64] (3) The understanding and wisdom related to spiritual or divine realities, which Bhrigu wishes to acquire.[65]
From: Chandogya Upanishad (Shankara Bhashya)
(1) Understanding gained regarding the nature of the Self and the processes of existence, essential for liberation.[66]
From: Chandogya Upanishad (english Translation)
(1) An understanding of profound truths that arises from experience rather than mere intellectual learning.[67]
From: Brihadaranyaka Upanishad
(1) The understanding and insights gained through the teachings in the text, particularly about the self and the universe.[68]
From: Kena upanishad (Madhva commentary)
(1) The understanding necessary to connect with Brahman and achieve liberation, typically acquired from a True Guru.[69]
From: Kathopanishad (Madhva commentary)
(1) Understanding and insights gained through spiritual practice that lead to the realization of one's true nature and the nature of God.[70]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) The understanding of spiritual matters, which is necessary for internal discipline.[71] (2) An understanding or awareness that transcends ordinary knowledge, leading to personal enlightenment and higher existence.[72] (3) Esoteric science related to the spirit or soul, which may also refer to the science of medicine.[73] (4) Wisdom that is derived from philosophical teachings such as Sankhya-Yoga, which removes ignorance and attachment.[74]
From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)
(1) The understanding possessed by characters like Kanva, which transcends ordinary knowledge and provides insight into hidden actions.[75] (2) The wisdom that allows characters such as Ratnaprabha and others to comprehend the truths of existence and relationships.[76]
From: Charaka Samhita (English translation)
(1) Insights and understanding gained through spiritual practices that inform one’s beliefs about the soul and existence.[77] (2) Understanding that emerges from awareness of the self that transcends physical existence, potentially impacting the nature of future lives.[78]
From: Yoga-sutras (with Vyasa and Vachaspati Mishra)
(1) The understanding of higher truths that leads to ultimate desirelessness and freedom from attachment.[79] (2) The pure understanding that facilitates the transition to a higher state of consciousness devoid of desire for external objects.[80]
From: Shakti and Shakta
(1) Sadhana for spiritual knowledge (Brahmajnana) which consists of external control over ten senses and internal control over the mind.[81]
Jain concept of 'Spiritual knowledge'
In Jainism, Spiritual knowledge embodies wisdom acquired through religious practices, guiding actions towards enlightenment, and represents the understanding sought by Ananda that culminates in attaining omniscience.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) The understanding and wisdom sought by Ananda, leading him to attain a state of omniscience.[82] (2) Wisdom or understanding gained through religious or spiritual practices that help guide one's actions toward enlightenment.[83]
The concept of Spiritual knowledge in local and regional sources
Spiritual knowledge encompasses insights gained through spiritual practices, providing profound understanding of existence and the divine. It transcends material understanding, fostering personal and collective wisdom while addressing both inner and outer challenges for individuals and society.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) Understanding and wisdom gained through spiritual practices and inquiry.[84] (2) The insights and understandings gained through spiritual practices that contribute to personal and collective wisdom.[85] (3) The insights and understandings gained through the practice of meditation and communion with Nature, likened to teachings passed from teacher to disciple in the Vedic tradition.[86] (4) Understanding gained through ethical principles and spiritual practices that leads to higher consciousness.[87] (5) Understanding achieved through studying sacred texts and meditation, leading one to realize their true nature as Brahman.[88]
From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda
(1) The author states that this is the highest wisdom, the ultimate understanding, and the source of bliss, surpassing the enjoyment of senses or intellect.[89] (2) These seeds can be sown if the field is made ready, representing the potential for growth through such work.[90] (3) The type of knowledge that Swamiji said people have to acquire in order to advance in civilization and have a deeper understanding of the world.[91] (4) This specific type of understanding has the ability to forever eliminate our miseries, while other types of understanding only address wants temporarily, making it the greatest form of assistance.[92] (5) Spiritual knowledge is considered the highest gift, offering salvation from numerous births, followed by secular knowledge, which opens eyes towards the former.[93]
From: Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints
(1) The comprehensive understanding of spiritual truths that the ascetic disciples possessed under Ganeshnath's guidance.[94] (2) The understanding and insight gained through spiritual association and worship.[95] (3) Understanding gained through religious practices and experiences related to the divine.[96] (4) The teachings and wisdom that Matsyendra imparts to Goraksha following his act of sacrifice.[97] (5) Understanding that transcends ordinary learning, pertaining to insights and truths regarding the soul, divinity, and existence.[98]