Significance of Control of the senses
Control of the senses is a significant concept across various philosophical traditions, emphasizing the mastery over sensory perceptions and desires. In Vaishnavism, it involves regulating sensory experiences for focus and purity. Puranic texts highlight the discipline required to restrain senses, aiding satisfaction and sin absolution. Yoga advocates managing and directing senses to prevent distractions. Ayurveda and Vedanta stress the necessity of controlling senses for inner purity and spiritual growth. Similarly, Shaktism and Dharmashastra regard it as essential for personal discipline and achieving spiritual goals, while Theravada promotes it as a means to alleviate attachment to sensory pleasures.
Synonyms: Sensory control, Self-discipline, Self-restraint, Self-control, Temperance, Moderation, Willpower, Self-mastery
In Dutch: Controle over de zintuigen; In Finnish: Aistien hallinta; In Spanish: Control de los sentidos
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Control of the senses'
Control of the senses in Buddhism is a practice encouraged by the Buddha to reduce attachment to sensory pleasures, fostering spiritual growth and self-discipline, ultimately providing a solid foundation against life's temptations.
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) An important aspect of self-discipline illustrated in verse 25 that contributes to the creation of a stable and unassailable foundation against life's temptations.[1]
From: Guide to Tipitaka
(1) A practice recommended by the Buddha to help alleviate attachment to sensory pleasures and promote spiritual growth.[2]
From: Akshayamatinirdesha [english]
(1) The ability to regulate sensory perceptions and avoid disturbances from external stimuli.[3]
Hindu concept of 'Control of the senses'
Control of the senses in Hinduism emphasizes mastery over sensory perceptions and desires, fostering personal discipline, purity, and focus. This practice is vital for spiritual growth, knowledge acquisition, and achieving inner peace through mental regulation.
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) A practice that involves mastering one's sensory perceptions to achieve greater awareness and inner peace.[4] (2) The foundational practice necessary for learning and discipline, achieved through the renunciation of negative emotions and desires.[5] (3) The practice of regulating sensory experiences and desires as a means of achieving spiritual goals.[6] (4) A significant aspect of the Kshatriya's training, which entails managing one's desires and impulses.[7] (5) The practice of mastering one's senses to achieve a higher state of consciousness.[8]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) The discipline of governing one's desires and sensory experiences as part of ascetic practice.[9]
From: Garuda Purana
(1) The practice of restraining senses from their objects, which helps in achieving satisfaction and sin absolution.[10]
From: Markandeya Purana (Study)
(1) The discipline of regulating one's sensory experiences to maintain focus and purity.[11]
From: Skanda Purana
(1) The practice observed by the sages, indicating mastery over one's desires and impulses.[12]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad Bhashya Vartika
(1) The practice of restraining or managing one's sensory inputs and responses, crucial in achieving a higher state of knowledge.[13] (2) The practice of managing and restraining one's sensory perceptions and responses.[14]
From: Vivekachudamani
(1) The practice of managing one's sensory experiences and impulses.[15]
From: Brahma Sutras (Shankara Bhashya)
(1) The ability to regulate one's sensory perceptions, which is necessary for spiritual growth and Knowledge acquisition.[16]
From: Yoga-sutras (with Vyasa and Vachaspati Mishra)
(1) The ability to manage and restrain the senses, which includes the non-attachment to sensory experiences.[17] (2) The mastery over one's sensory perceptions, which is achieved through the control of the mind.[18] (3) The ability to manage or direct the senses to prevent them from engaging with external distractions.[19]
From: Varahi Tantra (English Study)
(1) Known as niyama, it is a necessary practice for spiritual discipline.[20]
From: History of Indian Medicine (and Ayurveda)
(1) The necessary discipline that implies regulation over one's sensory experiences and mental states to achieve inner purity.[21]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) The mastery of one's sensory perception through the governance of the mind, illustrating the hierarchical relationship among them.[22]
The concept of Control of the senses in scientific sources
Control of the senses involves managing sensory experiences to enhance Brahmacharya and mental discipline, fostering psychological stability through focused awareness and restraint in sensory indulgence. This practice aids in achieving greater self-control and inner peace.
From: International Ayurvedic Medical Journal
(1) The management of sensory experiences as part of Brahmacharya and mental discipline, contributing to psychological stability.[23]