Significance of Analogy
Analogy, in various spiritual contexts, serves as a method of understanding and acquiring knowledge through comparisons. In Jainism, it complements indirect knowledge. Tibetan Buddhism utilizes analogy to establish relationships by comparing two distinct entities, noted in the examples of the Gavaya and the Cow. Dharmashastra also employs analogy to clarify conceptual similarities in practices, particularly within ritualistic frameworks. Overall, analogy is crucial for explaining and elucidating complex ideas across these traditions.
Synonyms: Comparison, Metaphor, Similarity, Likeness, Correspondence, Resemblance, Correlation
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Analogy'
In Buddhism, analogy serves as a reasoning method that establishes relationships through comparisons, aiding in explanation and understanding by relating unfamiliar concepts to known ones, such as likening the Gavaya to a Cow.
From: Tattvasangraha [with commentary]
(1) A comparison between two things for the purpose of explanation or clarification.[1] (2) A method that brings about a definite idea by drawing comparisons or similarities to other known concepts.[2] (3) Analogy is that which accomplishes its purpose through similarity to a known object.[3] (4) A method of reasoning or explanation that establishes a relationship based on similarity between two different things, in this case, the Gavaya and the Cow.[4]
Hindu concept of 'Analogy'
In Hinduism, the term Analogy signifies a comparative framework used to elucidate the conceptual similarities of various practices, particularly within their ritualistic contexts, enhancing understanding of their meanings and significance.
From: Vakyapadiya of Bhartrihari
(1) A comparison made to illustrate the idea of recognizing differentiation within a unity, akin to the analysis of sentences.[5] (2) A comparison made in order to illustrate a point or explain a grammatical rule through a similar situation.[6]
From: Prasthanatrayi Swaminarayan Bhashyam (Study)
(1) Upamana; a means of acquiring knowledge through comparisons with similar known concepts.[7]
From: Padarthadharmasamgraha and Nyayakandali
(1) A form of inference that compares two things based on their similarities, as illustrated by the connection made between the gavaya and the cow.[8]
From: The Sarva-Darsana-Samgraha
(1) A form of reasoning that draws parallels between similar situations to derive conclusions.[9]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) A comparison made to clarify how certain practices are conceptually similar, especially in their ritualistic context.[10]
Jain concept of 'Analogy'
In Jainism, Analogy serves as a tool for understanding and gaining knowledge by drawing comparisons, representing a vital component of indirect knowledge that enriches spiritual comprehension.
From: Tattvartha Sutra (with commentary)
(1) A means of understanding or acquiring knowledge through comparisons, included among the elements of indirect knowledge.[11]