Significance of Conscious Entity

Conscious Entity is a term used across various philosophical perspectives to describe different aspects of consciousness and existence. In Yoga, it highlights the misunderstanding that the mind is the conscious being, pointing to ignorance of true consciousness. In Vedanta, it references the atman's engagement in thought and judgment, while Dharmashastra emphasizes the soul as the individual awareness separate from the physical body and life-breath. Overall, Conscious Entity embodies the essence of awareness and existence within a physical form.

Synonyms: Sentient being, Conscious being

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Hindu concept of 'Conscious Entity'

Hinduism Books

In Hinduism, the term "Conscious Entity" denotes the Soul or individual awareness perceiving reality, distinct from the mind, embodying the atman engaged in thought and discernment, and representing the Self’s awareness within the physical realm.

Significance of Conscious Entity in Dharmashastra (religious law):

Dharmashastra Books

From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi

(1) The aspect of the Self associated with awareness and existence within the physical body.^[1] (2) The soul within the body, distinct from the physical body and life-breath.^[2] (3) A term that signifies the Soul or the individual awareness that perceives and experiences reality.^[3]

Dharmashastra contains the instructions (shastra) regarding religious conduct of livelihood (dharma), ceremonies, jurisprudence (study of law) and more. It is categorized as smriti, an important and authoritative selection of books dealing with the Hindu lifestyle.

Significance of Conscious Entity in Vedanta (school of philosophy):

Vedanta Books

From: Prasthanatrayi Swaminarayan Bhashyam (Study)

(1) The aspect of the atman that engages in the acts of thinking and discrimination.^[4]

From: Taittiriya Upanishad

(1) A being with awareness and perception, particularly in the context of the jiva as a conscious self.^[5]

Vedanta refers to a school of orthodox Hindu philosophy (astika), drawing its subject-matter from the Upanishads. There are a number of sub-schools of Vedanta, however all of them expound on the basic teaching of the ultimate reality (brahman) and liberation (moksha) of the individual soul (atman).

Significance of Conscious Entity in Yoga (school of philosophy):

Yoga Books

From: Yoga-sutras (Ancient and Modern Interpretations)

(1) This phrase refers to the misconceived notion that the mind itself is a conscious being, which arises from ignorance about the nature of consciousness and perception.^[6]

Yoga is originally considered a branch of Hindu philosophy (astika), but both ancient and modern Yoga combine the physical, mental and spiritual. Yoga teaches various physical techniques also known as asanas (postures), used for various purposes (eg., meditation, contemplation, relaxation).

The concept of Conscious Entity in local and regional sources

History Books

Conscious Entity denotes a being with awareness, fundamentally tied to human nature. This concept emphasizes the essential role of consciousness in understanding identity and existence, highlighting its significance in the human experience.

Significance of Conscious Entity in India history and geography:

From: Triveni Journal

(1) A being that possesses awareness and is a fundamental aspect of human nature.^[7]

Last Updated: 23 November, 2024