Significance of Confusion
Confusion, as defined in various philosophical and religious contexts, denotes a state of misunderstanding or lack of clarity. In Tibetan Buddhism, it arises from the failure to distinguish between the general and particular. Vaishnavism describes it as an inability to think clearly. Purana's view depicts Mena's struggle to recognize Shiva among gods. Natyashastra links it to emotional inversion, while Mahayana portrays it as a misguided mental state due to ignorance. Theravada acknowledges confusion related to disciplinary misunderstandings, while Indian history illustrates the emotional moment of realization.
Synonyms: Bewilderment, Perplexity, Chaos, Disarray, Misunderstanding, Doubt, Ambiguity
In Dutch: Verwarring
In Finnish: Hämmennys
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Confusion'
Confusion in Buddhism encompasses misunderstanding in thought and action, acknowledgment of disciplinary missteps, a lack of wisdom, misinterpreting spiritual paths, and the duality of general versus particular concepts, causing contradictory interpretations.
From: Vinaya Pitaka (4): Parivara
(1) A state of disorder or unclear perception that affects decision-making and understanding of dhamma.[1] (2) A state of misunderstanding or lack of clarity in thought or action.[2]
From: Vinaya Pitaka (1): Bhikkhu-vibhanga (the analysis of Monks’ rules)
(1) An acknowledgement of misconduct or misunderstanding related to the Patimokkha recitation, sometimes leading to further disciplinary measures.[3]
From: Shurangama Sutra (with commentary) (English)
(1) A mental state resulting from a lack of wisdom and understanding, often leading individuals to mistakenly believe they are on the right spiritual path when they are not.[4]
From: Mulamadhyamaka-karika (English)
(1) The mental state that hinders clarity and understanding, leading to ignorance and the proliferation of afflictions.[5]
From: Tattvasangraha [with commentary]
(1) The state that arises when a word is applied or understood in multiple, potentially contradictory ways.[6] (2) The potential misunderstanding that arises when the general and particular are not recognized as distinct, despite being one.[7]
Hindu concept of 'Confusion'
In Hinduism, Confusion (vibhrama) signifies emotional turmoil that distorts perception, exemplified by Mena's difficulty in recognizing Shiva and the broader state of mental disarray, hampering clarity and comprehension of reality.
From: Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu
(1) A state of mental uncertainty or lack of clarity that can arise in emotionally charged situations.[8] (2) A state of mental disarray or uncertainty that the young men are experiencing due to the events occurring.[9] (3) A mental state associated with distress and lamentation, where one struggles to think clearly.[10] (4) A state of mental disarray, characteristic of the mind during an apasmara episode.[11]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) A state of bewilderment or lack of understanding, particularly in relation to the actions of the rogues.[12] (2) The state of being unable to think clearly or understand instructions, as seen in the phrase 'they were so confused'.[13]
From: Shiva Purana
(1) The state of mind Mena finds herself in as she struggles to identify Shiva among divine beings.[14]
From: Natyashastra (English)
(1) Confusion (vibhrama) involves the inversion of items or expressions due to emotions like intoxication or passion.[15]
From: Vakyapadiya of Bhartrihari
(1) The state resulting from the blending of various perceptions and realities in actual life.[16]
From: Matangalila and Hastyayurveda (study)
(1) The state of disorientation experienced by elephants due to sudden noises and actions during the catching operation.[17]
From: Sahitya-kaumudi by Baladeva Vidyabhushana
(1) The state of excitement experienced by Krishna upon seeing Radha and interpreting her actions.[18]
Jain concept of 'Confusion'
In Jainism, Confusion represents the complex emotions expressed by monk Naradaputra about the intricate nature of discussions surrounding pudgalas, highlighting the challenges of understanding jain philosophical concepts.
From: Bhagavati-sutra (Viyaha-pannatti)
(1) A feeling expressed by monk Naradaputra regarding the complexity of the discussions about pudgalas.[19]
The concept of Confusion in local and regional sources
Confusion, as experienced by Palo, arises from the misinterpretation of Ret Mongla's call, highlighting the emotional turmoil and uncertainty linked to realizing one's error in understanding communication.
From: Folklore of the Santal Parganas
(1) The feeling experienced by Palo when she realizes her mistake in interpreting Ret Mongla's call.[20]