Significance of Conscious awareness
Conscious awareness is described across various philosophical perspectives, including Purana, Vedanta, Mahayana, and Theravada. It reflects a heightened state of being aware of one's thoughts and perceptions, influencing reality perception. Vedanta emphasizes the unique, persistent nature of cognition and the realization of awareness as core existence. Mahayana highlights the importance of recognizing one's duties and qualities, enhancing spiritual practice. Theravada focuses on awareness directed towards specific objects or sensations. Overall, conscious awareness is essential for self-understanding and spiritual development.
Synonyms: Awareness, Mindfulness, Consciousness, Perception, Cognizance, Alertness, Attentiveness
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Conscious awareness'
Conscious awareness in Buddhism encompasses full presence in oneself and the environment, cognizance of thoughts and sensations, and informed mindfulness essential for spiritual practice and embodying the qualities of a bodhisattva.
From: Shurangama Sutra (with commentary) (English)
(1) The state of being fully conscious and aware of one’s thoughts, feelings, and surroundings during spiritual practice.[1] (2) The state of being aware or cognizant, which may be considered as either synonymous or distinct from the organ of the mind.[2] (3) The state of being cognizant or informed about one's thoughts, feelings, and experiences, particularly with respect to flavor and sensory perception.[3]
From: Vimalakirti Nirdesa Sutra
(1) The state of being fully present and aware of oneself and the environment, crucial for the practice of Dharma.[4] (2) The continuous state of being aware of one's duties and good qualities that bodhisattvas maintain.[5]
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) The state of being aware of a particular object or sensation as instructed by the Buddha to Bahiyadaruciriya.[6]
Hindu concept of 'Conscious awareness'
In Hinduism, Conscious awareness encompasses self-awareness of thoughts and existence, transcending illusions of separation, recognizing cognition’s persistence, and affirming individual perception as the essence of true existence. It emphasizes subjective experiences unique to each being.
From: Mandukya Upanishad
(1) The existence of cognition that persists regardless of whether the objects of perception are real or unreal.[7] (2) Conscious awareness is the state of being aware of one's own thoughts and experiences; in the dream state, this awareness is internal.[8] (3) The state of being aware of one’s own perceptions and experiences, unique to each sentient being.[9]
From: Kaivalya Upanishad
(1) The recognition that one's own awareness is the only true existence, negating the perception of others.[10] (2) The realization that awareness itself is the core of existence, transcending all forms and illusions of separation.[11]
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) The state of being aware of one's thoughts and existence, which can influence perceptions of reality.[12]