Significance of Wisdom
Synonyms: Sagacity, Insight, Knowledge, Prudence, Discernment, Intelligence, Understanding, Enlightenment, Cleverness., Erudition
In Dutch: Wijsheid; In Finnish: Viisaus; In Spanish: 厂补产颈诲耻谤铆补; In German: Weisheit; In Swedish: Visdom; In Malay: Kebijaksanaan; In French: Sagesse
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Wisdom'
Wisdom in Buddhism, or prajna, encompasses deep insights into reality, understanding the interconnectedness of all beings, and cultivating discernment through practice, ultimately leading to enlightenment and liberation from suffering. It's essential for making wise decisions on the spiritual path.
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) The quality of having knowledge and good judgment, especially in moral and ethical matters.[1] (2) Understanding and knowledge, particularly in the context of Buddhist teachings.[2] (3) Insight and understanding that arise from experience and practice, essential for navigating the path to enlightenment.[3] (4) The quality of discernment and understanding, vital for realization on the spiritual path.[4] (5) The deep understanding of the nature of reality and the ability to discern truth.[5]
From: Mahayana Mahaparinirvana Sutra
(1) The ability to see clearly into the nature of reality, as emphasized throughout the Buddha's teachings.[6] (2) Considered a pinnacle experience in Buddhism, wisdom is the understanding that leads to the relinquishing of suffering and attainment of Nirvana.[7] (3) The understanding that arises from insights into the nature of reality and the ability to see through illusion and defilement.[8] (4) The deep understanding that arises from the practice of insight and discernment into the nature of reality.[9] (5) The understanding that transcends mere knowledge, providing insight that can lead to liberation from suffering.[10]
From: Bodhisattvacharyavatara
(1) The mind鈥檚 capacity to clearly distinguish all phenomena, critical for understanding and compassion.[11] (2) A fundamental aspect of understanding in Buddhist practice, symbolized by Manjushri in the meditation.[12]
From: Mahavastu (great story)
(1) The highest moral quality that good men appreciate, compared to other virtues in the jataka.[13] (2) Understanding and insight into the true nature of reality, a key quality developed on the path to enlightenment.[14]
From: Shurangama Sutra (with commentary) (English)
(1) Refers to the profound insight and understanding that arises through the cultivation of the teachings and practices of Buddhism.[15] (2) The insight needed to discern the nature of reality and avoid falling into the trap of further misconceptions based on illusory perceptions.[16]
From: Lotus Sutra (Saddharma-Pundarika)
(1) A core attribute that allows practitioners to understand the truth and facilitates the path towards supreme enlightenment.[17] (2) The connection to understanding and enlightenment that results from sincere engagement with teachings.[18]
From: Akshayamatinirdesha [english]
(1) The meaning is knowledge of this and liberation, as the letter teaches the accumulation of peaceful meditation and expanded vision.[19] (2) A deep, intrinsic knowledge that complements supernormal knowledge and reflects an understanding of fundamental truths.[20]
From: Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva fundamental vow sutra
(1) The profound understanding that Ksitigarbha possesses, considered unimaginable.[21]
From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) Another virtue among the four, highlighting the importance of knowledge and sound judgment.[22] (2) Understanding the importance of forming friendships for protection against challenges.[23] (3) The insight and understanding that the pupils lacked, which the Bodhisatta emphasized during his lessons.[24] (4) A central theme portrayed through the character of the Bodhisatta, indicating the elevation of understanding and perception beyond mere knowledge.[25] (5) Wisdom is the knowledge and understanding that the wise young man possesses, which he uses to heal the king.[26]
From: Maha Buddhavamsa鈥擳he Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) The perfection (panna) that involves insight and understanding as part of the Ten Perfections.[27] (2) The understanding and insight crucial for the Bodhisatta to discern truth and progress toward enlightenment.[28] (3) The understanding that allows one to forego minor satisfactions in favor of greater spiritual rewards.[29] (4) The profound understanding and insight held by Venerable Sariputta, recognized and praised by the Buddha.[30] (5) Knowledge and discernment necessary for understanding the advantages and dangers of the four requisites.[31]
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) The quality attributed to the medhavi, or wise one, who knows to guard the mind for spiritual well-being.[32] (2) The perception and understanding of oneself and the teachings of the Dhamma, crucial for enlightenment.[33] (3) The quality of having knowledge and good judgment, which the false ascetic lacks.[34] (4) The last of the three trainings, emphasizing the purification of one's heart and the understanding of deeper truths in life.[35] (5) Encompasses understanding, knowledge, and insight, particularly the profound mental faculties in Buddhism.[36]
From: Patipada (path of practice)
(1) Wisdom is described as a factor that monks should not let go of while performing their duties, such as examining and guarding themselves in various situations while standing, walking, sitting, lying down, eating and all others, including the various activities around the monastery such as sweeping the ground.[37] (2) This is a state of being that becomes more skillful and widespread every time it is used, and it is a key aspect of the training of the citta.[38] (3) Wisdom is a key factor, and those who practice the way should be resolute and constant in maintaining it and mindfulness, to show the reasons behind the problems that arise.[39] (4) The development of mindfulness allows samadhi to appear, which leads to thoughts and insights in the direction of wisdom appearing much more quickly.[40] (5) A key aspect of Venerable Acharn Kow's development, which progressed alongside samadhi, as he became engrossed in striving day and night.[41]
From: A Manual of Abhidhamma
(1) A mental state that is combined with forty-seven types of consciousness, including twelve Sense-Sphere types accompanied by wisdom and thirty-five Sublime types.[42] (2) A crucial component that influences moral consciousness and distinguished from ignorance.[43] (3) Referred to as nana, it encompasses understanding and discernment cultivated through practice.[44] (4) The insight and understanding that arises from deep contemplation and awareness of reality.[45]
From: Guide to Tipitaka
(1) Another key quality of the Buddha, representing insight and understanding of ultimate truths.[46] (2) The understanding that corporeality, sensation, perception, mental formations, or consciousness are unstable, impermanent, and not enduring.[47] (3) A parami emphasizing insight and understanding into the nature of reality.[48]
From: Introducing Buddhist Abhidhamma
(1) Amoha signifies wisdom or knowledge, defined as understanding things as they truly are.[49] (2) The understanding and insight gained through the practice of mindfulness and diligence leading to moral development.[50]
From: Cetasikas
(1) The insight and understanding necessary for recognizing and addressing the realities of feelings and their conditioned nature.[51] (2) An understanding that can illuminate the characteristics of aversion and non-aversion, facilitating the development of kindness and patience.[52]
From: Visuddhimagga (the pah of purification)
(1) The understanding that allows individuals to grasp the nature of dependent origination and its implications for suffering and existence.[53]
From: Vinaya Pitaka (3): Khandhaka
(1) The attribute that allows certain individuals to navigate challenges successfully, as emphasized in the Lord's solemn utterance regarding those who 'cross the deeps.'[54]
From: Abhidhamma in Daily Life
(1) Panna, which is insight developed through mindfulness and understanding of the characteristics of nama and rupa.[55]
From: Milindapanha (questions of King Milinda)
(1) The quality of having knowledge and good judgment, especially demonstrated by Nagasena.[56]
From: Bodhinyana
(1) With wisdom, we understand the connection of all people as one.[57] (2) The understanding that allows us to see the impermanent nature of thoughts and feelings.[58] (3) The understanding and insight that arise from deep meditation and contemplation of the nature of reality.[59] (4) The capacity to examine and utilize the natural state of the mind as a means of understanding Dhamma and investigating one鈥檚 experiences.[60]
From: The Great Chariot
(1) ye shes[61] (2) The four wisdom aspects represented through the protuberances of the mandala's structure.[62] (3) The insightful understanding that arises from the cessation of the five poisons and realization of the nature of reality.[63]
From: The Fo-Sho-Hing-Tsan-King (A Life of Buddha)
(1) The knowledge that guides a person away from folly and the transient nature of worldly pleasures.[64] (2) The understanding and insight gained from experiencing and reflecting on the teachings of Buddha, essential for navigating life.[65]
From: Apadana commentary (Atthakatha)
(1) The understanding that allows a person to recognize the futility of sensual pleasures and to choose a path of solitary reflection, like a rhinoceros.[66]
From: Tattvasangraha [with commentary]
(1) An excellence indicative of deep understanding and sound judgment.[67]
Hindu concept of 'Wisdom'
In Hinduism, Wisdom embodies deep understanding achieved through experience and spiritual practice, emphasizing discernment, self-control, and insight into the non-dual nature of reality, ultimately guiding one toward liberation and virtuous living.
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) The ability to make sound decisions based on knowledge and experience, significant for long life.[68] (2) The understanding and insight that leads an individual to recognize the transient nature of life and possessions.[69] (3) The quality of understanding and acting without being influenced by passions or negative qualities, marked by tranquility and detachment.[70] (4) The understanding and discernment that empowers individuals to navigate life and grasp deeper truths of existence.[71] (5) The quality of having knowledge and good judgment, often guiding individuals to avoid malevolent company.[72]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) Deep understanding and insight that one gains through experience and learning, which is sought after in the context of escaping from ignorance.[73] (2) The quality of having knowledge and good judgment, as exhibited by the daughter born to Malavati.[74] (3) The discernment that Maha Lakshmi claims to possess, which she contrasts against the thoughts of Mahisha's minister.[75] (4) The knowledge and understanding expected of characters in moral discussions, particularly relevant to Candra鈥檚 actions.[76]
From: Vishnu Purana
(1) The state of understanding truth, which can also lead one to be confined to existence.[77] (2) The ultimate knowledge associated with the supreme spirit, transcending emptiness and divisions in the cosmic cycle.[78] (3) Profound knowledge or insight, especially in spiritual or moral matters, that guides one's actions.[79] (4) Knowledge that leads one to detach from selfish attachments, akin to wise individuals gradually shrinking from family ties.[80]
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) The quality of knowledge that transcends superficial acts of worship, promoting deeper understanding and connection to the intellect.[81] (2) The understanding that allows an individual to see beyond the illusions of the world and maintain equanimity amidst life's fluctuations.[82]
From: Brihaddharma Purana (abridged)
(1) A deep understanding and insight that arises from lived experience and adherence to spiritual teachings.[83]
From: Markandeya Purana
(1) The high level of understanding achieved by the birds after their rebirth, prompting them to seek guidance from Muni Shamika.[84]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Griffith)
(1) The text mentions 'wisdom' as a characteristic of Rama, indicating that he possesses knowledge and good judgment.[85]
From: Mandukya Upanishad (Madhva commentary)
(1) This is portrayed as the primary attribute of the Supreme Self, symbolizing its deep and comprehensive understanding.[86] (2) The state of understanding that allows the Wise to approach the Turiya, linking knowledge with spiritual attainment.[87]
From: Mandukya Upanishad
(1) The quality of having deep knowledge and understanding, particularly about existential truths.[88]
From: Brahma Sutras (Ramanuja)
(1) The quality of understanding the true nature of Brahman and recognizing the illusion of duality.[89]
From: Brahma Sutras (Shankara Bhashya)
(1) The quality of having knowledge and good judgment, particularly in understanding Brahman as the origin of all beings.[90]
From: Mandukya Upanishad (Gaudapa Karika and Shankara Bhashya)
(1) The understanding that sees beyond the illusion of duality, recognizing the non-dual nature of reality where all phenomena are seen as Brahman.[91]
From: Thirty minor Upanishads
(1) Referred to as jnana, this understanding entails seeing oneself as non-different from the divine.[92]
From: Brahma Sutras (Shankaracharya)
(1) The knowledge and understanding required to attain liberation, which involves mental control and discernment.[93]
From: Chandogya Upanishad (english Translation)
(1) The quality of having deep knowledge and understanding, highlighted in the text as an essential attribute of the wise.[94]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) Wisdom refers to the understanding and insight that guide individuals in controlling their minds and navigating the dualities of existence.[95] (2) The ability to make sound judgments and decisions based on a deep understanding of people, things, events, or situations.[96]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) The quality of understanding how to appropriately apply logic without diminishing the essence of bhakti.[97]
From: Bhajana-Rahasya
(1) Wisdom, as understood in this context, is the recognition that true knowledge and action are intimately connected to devotion towards Shri Bhagavan for them to hold value.[98]
From: Hayanaratna: The Jewel of Annual Astrology
(1) This is one of the sahamas, a set of concepts that aid in the outcomes of all the houses, in the same manner that fate supports the endeavors of people.[99] (2) This is one of the sahamas, representing the quality of having experience, knowledge, and good judgment, according to the text.[100] (3) This sahama is identical with the sahama of greatness, as stated in the text, and represents wisdom.[101] (4) This is defined as possessing insight, related to the interpretation of sahamas and their meanings, suggesting a quality of understanding.[102]
From: Asvalayana-grihya-sutra
(1) A key attribute or deity to be honored in sacrificial rites.[103]
From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)
(1) The ability to make sound judgments based on experience and knowledge, exemplified through various characters in the stories.[104]
From: Yoga-sutras (with Vyasa and Vachaspati Mishra)
(1) The state of having attained knowledge about the beginnings and ends of life, which is gained through verbal and inferential understanding rather than mere experience.[105]
Jain concept of 'Wisdom'
In Jainism, Wisdom signifies the recognition of desire's futility, the pragmatic insights of characters in narratives, the ability to impart truthful teachings, and is considered a virtue exemplified by Mahavira, highlighting both knowledge and understanding.
From: Sutrakritanga (English translation)
(1) The quality attributed to the knowing man who recognizes the futility of the desires that bind people.[106] (2) Insight into the nature of life that allows one to teach effectively without deluding others.[107]
From: Acaranga-sutra
(1) The quality of having knowledge and understanding; described as a virtue of Mahavira.[108]
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) The knowledge and insight that the characters exhibit to navigate challenges throughout the narrative.[109]
The concept of Wisdom in local and regional sources
Wisdom encompasses sound decision-making grounded in experience and knowledge, good judgment, acceptance of circumstances, and insightful understanding, as illustrated by Sundaramurthy and Sastri's perspectives on life and personal narratives.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) The application of knowledge and experience in making sound judgments and decisions for the benefit of oneself and others.[110] (2) The quality of having experience, knowledge, and good judgment.[111] (3) The insight and understanding that Sastri displays when addressing the question of why he has not written a biography of Gokhale.[112] (4) The ability to make sound decisions based on experience and knowledge.[113] (5) The ability to make sound judgments and decisions based on knowledge and experience.[114]