Significance of Contemplation
Synonyms: Reflection, Meditation, Consideration, Pondering, Thoughtfulness, Deliberation, Rumination, Introspection., Introspection, Musing, Cogitation
In French: Contemplation; In Dutch: Overpeinzing; In Finnish: Miettiminen; In Spanish: Contemplación; In German: Betrachtung; In Malay: Renungan; In Swedish: Begrundande; In Italian: Contemplazione; In Polish: Kontemplacja; In Portugese: Contemplação; In Dutch: Contemplatie
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Contemplation'
In Buddhism, contemplation involves deep, reflective thought and focused attention. It's a practice for spiritual insight, understanding the Dhamma, and realizing reality. This can involve examining thoughts, emotions, and teachings to overcome doubts, achieve enlightenment, and master the path to Buddhahood.
From: A Discourse on Paticcasamuppada
(1) Contemplation is the practice through which one can become aware of the real nature of khandhas. This awareness leads to freedom from the ego illusion.[1] (2) Contemplation is a practice that strengthens perception and helps create mental images, as demonstrated by Mahatissa thera's transformation of the woman's image into a skeleton.[2] (3) Contemplation is a method through which a yogi empirically knows the nature of cetana.[3] (4) So even without a thorough knowledge about the nature of death, rebirth and nama rupa, they can enlighten themselves through this.[4] (5) Deep, reflective thought aimed toward understanding dhamma and developing spiritual insight, especially relevant to those on the Ariyan path.[5]
From: Patipada (path of practice)
(1) This is a method of practice that yields skillful and clever insights, involving deep reflection on the nature of reality.[6] (2) The text explains that one who tends towards contemplation and reflective thought will find the way of escape from the mass of dukkha in the prison of the round (vatta) of samsara.[7] (3) Instead, he took that most cherished status as an object of this, thinking: “All these wonderful things that arise within me do so because of the help and kindness of others.”[8] (4) Contemplation is a mental process involving deep and prolonged thought, which is suggested as a natural inclination for those who practice the way, particularly in the context of analysis.[9]
From: Vinaya Pitaka (3): Khandhaka
(1) Contemplation is one of the attainments which a monk should not falsely lay claim to, emphasizing the importance of honesty and humility in spiritual practice and the dangers of claiming false achievements.[10]
From: Milindapanha (questions of King Milinda)
(1) This is described as a state the Tathagatas remained in, and it is characterized by its virtues and advantages, including the attainment of Buddhahood and the enjoyment of its benefits.[11]
From: Maha Buddhavamsa—The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) A noble bhikkhu is required to cultivate comprehension and develop the ten contemplation to overcome disinterestedness.[12]
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) These are methods of observation and understanding, with ordinary people having three kinds, disciples of the Buddha having eight, and further applications leading to sixteen aspects.[13] (2) Contemplation refers to the deep reflective practice wherein Dharmaruci reflects on his past actions and ultimately reaches arhathood.[14] (3) The deep reflective thought process through which the ascetic seeks understanding and freedom from matter.[15]
From: Shurangama Sutra (with commentary) (English)
(1) Contemplation can be either proper, involving specific viewpoints and methods, or deviant, if it deviates from this prescribed manner.[16] (2) Contemplation is made possible by the practice of stopping thoughts, a key element in shamatha, and is crucial for achieving samadhi and understanding the nature of reality.[17] (3) Contemplation is a deep and focused thought process, and Maitreya Bodhisattva was intent on the contemplation that all directions come from consciousness.[18]
From: Bodhisattvacharyavatara
(1) The process of thinking deeply about teachings, questioning them, resolving doubts, and achieving certainty about their meaning.[19] (2) The process of deeply considering the essential meaning of a text to resolve questions and doubts during study.[20]
From: Tattvasangraha [with commentary]
(1) Contemplation, when carried on uninterruptedly with due faith for a long time, is described as bringing about its fruit in the shape of direct perception, as if things were in one’s palms.[21]
From: Hualin International Journal of Buddhist Studies
(1) The concept of contemplation was central to Bonnetty's interpretation of pantheism, as he believed the person finding God within themselves did so only by the force of contemplation and intuition.[22]
From: Apadana commentary (Atthakatha)
(1) A state of deep thinking and focus, pursued by the young prince as he seeks spiritual understanding.[23]
From: Bodhinyana
(1) The process of reflecting on and examining one’s thoughts and emotions to gain deeper insights into their nature and origin.[24]
Hindu concept of 'Contemplation'
In Hinduism, Contemplation is a multifaceted practice. It involves deep reflection, meditation, and focused attention, like dhyana. It can involve reflecting on the distinction between the soul and attributes, aiming to understand the essence of Brahman and recognize the Inner Soul. Ultimately, contemplation leads to inner peace and spiritual wisdom.
From: Taittiriya Upanishad
(1) A practice of deep reflection and meditation taught in various forms, which helps in achieving mental focus and clarity.[25] (2) Karma associated with Vidya, also known as "Contemplation", has the power of producing what is eternal, according to some, but the text argues against this view.[26] (3) These are prescribed as means of obtaining worldly ends and achieving one-pointedness of mind.[27] (4) Specific courses of meditation for which Brahman is presented in a conditioned form.[28] (5) The meditation or focused reflection on the nature of Brahman to attain inner peace and wisdom.[29]
From: Brahma Sutras (Shankaracharya)
(1) Contemplations on Aditya and so on superinduced on the udgitha, or the reverse, are debated, indicating the complexity of assigning the object and subject of meditation.[30] (2) This is the act of focusing on something, such as Vishnu in an image, as mentioned in the text.[31]
From: Chandogya Upanishad (Shankara Bhashya)
(1) It is considered lesser than Learning, as the latter provides the knowledge necessary for it to occur, serving as a meditative practice.[32] (2) A mental process that springs from the Self, suggesting its connection to the deeper aspects of existence.[33] (3) The act of deep reflection aimed at understanding and experiencing the essence of Brahman in the heart.[34]
From: Thirty minor Upanishads
(1) dhyana, where the mind is engaged in deep, reflective thought.[35]
From: Yoga-sutras (with Bhoja’s Rajamartanda)
(1) Contemplation, as previously defined, reaches the state of meditation when it exclusively focuses on and illuminates one particular object.[36] (2) Contemplation, along with steadfastness and meditation, is one of the three operations that, when applied to one object, is indicated by the term Samyama.[37] (3) Contemplation is not needed in seedless meditation, as this form of meditation rises above all specific objects, making vacuity the object of one's pondering and requiring no external aid.[38] (4) This is also known as Dhyana, is when the understanding is brought to bear upon this fixation and the two act in unison, i.e., when the thinking principle thinks intelligently and steadfastly on an object.[39] (5) Yoga bears fruit through contemplation.[40]
From: Yoga-sutras (with Vyasa and Vachaspati Mishra)
(1) This involves keeping something in mind and repeatedly practicing it for deeper understanding.[41] (2) A significant spiritual practice mentioned as a means of sustenance and bliss for the divine beings, leading to higher states of existence.[42] (3) The primary meaning of Yoga, indicating a meditative state of focused attention.[43]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) An activity absorbed by individuals who could not experience happiness after Jishnu’s departure, feeling overwhelmed with grief.[44] (2) Contemplation, practiced by yogins with eyes shut, is a method to achieve an eternal goal, signifying deep inner focus.[45] (3) The text refers to leading a retired life and devoting oneself to "contemplation".[46]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Shastri)
(1) Contemplation is a state of meditation where Lakshmana restrained his senses and did not release his breath.[47]
From: Tiruvaymoli (Thiruvaimozhi): English translation
(1) It is the act of thinking about the Lord's auspicious traits as a way for the Nayaki to find comfort.[48]
From: Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu
(1) Indicates the mental focus or reflection associated with the term mati, suggesting a depth of thought.[49]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) The act of deep reflective thought, especially on a spiritual or philosophical matter.[50]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) The act of deep reflective thinking that is integral for recognizing the Inner Soul.[51] (2) A practice that involves reflecting on the distinction between the soul and attributes, aiming to understand that attributes like happiness and unhappiness are not inherent to the soul.[52]
Jain concept of 'Contemplation'
In Jainism, Contemplation is a practice for monks and nuns involving focused reflection or meditation. It entails deep thought on specific subjects, promoting understanding and awareness. This process is a crucial part of their spiritual journey.
From: Acaranga-sutra
(1) A method of focused reflection or meditation that monks or nuns engage in during their journey.[53]
From: Tattvartha Sutra (with commentary)
(1) Deep reflective thought or meditation on specific subjects, aimed at achieving understanding and awareness.[54]
The concept of Contemplation in local and regional sources
Contemplation involves deep, reflective thought, encompassing divine matters and focused attention. It can be both a precursor to action and a means of emotional expression, though society sometimes views it negatively, highlighting the need for balance.
From: Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints
(1) The form of Krishna was seen by the bhaktas for their contemplation, which they then fixed in their minds, leading to waves of joy and tears.[55] (2) Deep reflection and focus on a specific subject, akin to a miser's concentrated attention on his wealth.[56] (3) Deep reflective thought, particularly about divine matters, interrupted by his wife's actions.[57]
From: Triveni Journal
(1) This can be a pre-requisite to action, and it should not be used as a method to avoid responsibilities of actions, implying a need for balance between thought and deeds.[58] (2) The act of deep reflective thought, perceived negatively by society but valued in cultivated circles.[59] (3) The reflective thought upon an emotion, leading to its expression in poetry.[60]
The concept of Contemplation in scientific sources
Contemplation, as defined by regional sources, marks the stage where individuals actively consider altering their behavior. This involves a thought process focused on evaluating the possibility and implications of making a change.
From: Religions Journal (MDPI)
(1) Contemplation, when queered, reveals that the pursuit of justice, love, liberation, joy, and rest are attainable within the mystical experience, which can be found in various forms, including social-justice activism.[61] (2) "Contemplation" is a key element in Bonaventure's theology, involving the cultivation of spiritual senses and the experiential knowledge of God, exemplified by St. Francis.[62] (3) It is a practice used by Queen C udala to attain enlightenment, demonstrating a method of achieving spiritual insight and higher states of consciousness.[63]
From: Sustainability Journal (MDPI)
(1) Contemplation refers to deep reflective thought, often prompted by travel experiences, leading to increased self-awareness and personal growth.[64]
From: International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health (MDPI)
(1) Contemplation, assessed by the IAIMS, is a stage where individuals recognize the need to reduce their internet use and consider resources available for success.[65] (2) Contemplation, or C, is a stage where individuals recognize the benefits of changing but overestimate the costs, leading to ambivalence and a lack of readiness to change.[66] (3) Contemplation is a stage of change where individuals are thinking of quitting within 6 months, and in this study, 41.9% of the participants were categorized in the contemplation stage.[67]
From: African Journal of Primary Health Care and Family Medicine
(1) A stage of change where a person is thinking about changing their behavior.[68]
Classical concept of 'Contemplation'
From: The Nicomachean Ethics of Aristotle
(1) A way of life focused on intellectual activity and reflection, set aside for later discussion as a potential candidate for the highest good.[69] (2) Perfect happiness is a contemplative activity; the activity of God, which surpasses all others in blessedness, must be contemplative.[70] (3) It is the activity of reason, seen as the best and most continuous activity, bringing pleasure and self-sufficiency, and being loved for its own sake, as it does not seek external outcomes beyond the act itself.[71] (4) It is a form of positive experience that involves no pain or appetite. In such a case, the nature is not defective at all.[72]