Significance of Bewilderment
Bewilderment is a multifaceted concept explored in various philosophical and spiritual contexts. In Tibetan Buddhism, it signifies a state that generates conceptual thoughts, trapping beings in duality and hindering liberation from samsara. In Vaishnavism, it encompasses confusion experienced by figures like Lord Brahma and reflects emotional turmoil and doubt, particularly in connection with divine love and grace. Various other traditions interpret bewilderment as confusion arising from overwhelming experiences, a loss of mental clarity, or a perplexing state linked to ignorance, illustrating its pervasive role across cultural beliefs.
Synonyms: Confusion, Perplexity, Astonishment, Surprise
In Dutch: Verbijstering; In Finnish: Hämmennys; In Spanish: Desconcierto
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Bewilderment'
In Buddhism, "Bewilderment" signifies a mental state that generates conceptual thoughts, leading to the illusion of duality and separation, ultimately hindering beings from achieving liberation from the cycle of samsara.
From: Guhyagarbha Tantra (with Commentary)
(1) A state from which conceptual thoughts arise, trapping beings in the illusion of duality and separation, preventing liberation from samsara.[1]
Hindu concept of 'Bewilderment'
In Hinduism, Bewilderment, or Moha, signifies confusion and loss of understanding, often rooted in emotional turmoil and ignorance, manifesting as a perplexing state of mind that affects clarity and awareness.
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) A state of confusion or doubt; specifically, the perplexity experienced by Shri Radha regarding the sage's transformation.[2] (2) a state of confusion or perplexity that can hinder one's ability to think clearly.[3]
From: Bhajana-Rahasya
(1) Moha refers to confusion or a loss of understanding, often caused by overwhelming feelings.[4] (2) Another outcome, termed moha, indicating confusion arising from emotional turmoil.[5]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) A state of confusion or perplexity that Lord Brahma experienced before reciting the verse.[6]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) A feeling of confusion that was described as never being experienced before in the context of the scene.[7]
From: Tiruvaymoli (Thiruvaimozhi): English translation
(1) The state of confusion and amazement experienced by the Alvar due to the overwhelming nature of the Lord's love and grace.[8]
From: Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu
(1) A state of confusion and uncertainty, linked to the mode of ignorance.[9]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) The state of confusion faced by the princes upon witnessing the Muni who had come back to life.[10]
From: Bhagavata Purana
(1) A state of confusion or perplexity experienced by an individual facing overwhelming circumstances.[11]
From: Sahitya-kaumudi by Baladeva Vidyabhushana
(1) Moha, confusion characterized by a loss of awareness.[12]
From: Yoga-sutras (Vedanta Commentaries)
(1) A state of confusion and doubt that arises when contemplating the complexities of ignorance and the self.[13]
From: Rasa Jala Nidhi, vol 5: Treatment of various afflictions
(1) One of the general symptoms of insanity characterized by confusion and loss of mental clarity.[14]
The concept of Bewilderment in local and regional sources
Bewilderment signifies a state of confusion or amazement, typically resulting from unexpected or profound experiences, highlighting the impact of unforeseen events on perception and understanding.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) A state of confusion or amazement, often brought on by unexpected or profound experiences.[15]