Significance of Dharma 'eye'
The Dharma eye, or dharmacakshus, in Buddhism signifies a metaphorical insight essential for perceiving the true nature of reality, free from false thoughts and emotions. It encompasses various forms of wisdom, including the understanding of the ten powers that enable Buddhas to comprehend causal relations and spiritual teachings. This insight arises from diligent study and practice of Dharma, allowing individuals to discern the truth of phenomena and navigate their spiritual paths effectively.
Synonyms: Spiritual insight, Enlightened vision, Inner wisdom, Divine perception, Intuitive understanding, Higher awareness, Insight, Enlightenment, Wisdom, Perception, Awareness
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Dharma 'eye''
The Dharma 'eye' in Buddhism symbolizes enlightened insight into reality, enabling understanding of the Buddha's teachings, discerning skillful means, and perceiving truth free from delusions, thereby guiding practitioners towards liberation and the true nature of existence.
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) A metaphorical term referring to the insight or wisdom to understand and perceive truths in Buddhism.[1] (2) The purity of understanding and wisdom acquired by a person after they have been exposed to the Dharma, enabling clear perception of reality.[2] (3) A metaphor for the insight or understanding gained through proper study and contemplation of spiritual teachings.[3] (4) The Dharma eye (dharmacakshus) allows the bodhisattva to understand individuals' paths and accomplishments in attaining bodhi by discerning the methods appropriate for each being.[4] (5) Metaphorical vision that allows one to see the truth of reality and the nature of phenomena beyond mere appearances.[5]
From: Shurangama Sutra (with commentary) (English)
(1) A metaphor for the ability to perceive and understand the truth of the Dharma, free from delusions.[6] (2) A metaphor for insight or understanding that becomes clear after overcoming defilements.[7] (3) A metaphor for the wisdom and insight needed to perceive reality clearly, free from the dust of false thought and emotion.[8]
From: Vimalakirti Sutra
(1) The enlightened perception that enables one to see the true nature of reality and understand the teachings of the Buddha.[9] (2) A metaphor for the insight and understanding of the true nature of reality, as achieved through the practice of Dharma.[10]
From: Mahavastu (great story)
(1) A metaphorical reference to the perception of truth and understanding of the Dharma that leads to liberation.[11] (2) Consists of the intellectual possession of the ten powers, enabling Buddhas to understand causal occasions, courses of conduct, and various elements comprehensively.[12]
From: Vimalakirti Nirdesa Sutra
(1) The insight gained through realization that allows one to see the truth of the four noble truths.[13] (2) The ability to perceive the true nature of reality, an important spiritual insight in Buddhism.[14]
From: Avatamsaka Sutra (flower adornment sutra)—Preface
(1) The Dharma Eye symbolizes the insight or wisdom that allows one to perceive the true nature of reality, crucial in understanding and practicing the Dharma.[15]
From: The Great Chariot
(1) The insight or understanding associated with Dharma, which asuras lack.[16]