Significance of Direct meaning

In Tibetan Buddhism, Direct meaning encompasses several aspects: it includes the clear and straightforward interpretation of statements, a classification of sutras with explicit teachings, and the deeper understanding of the Doctrine. In contrast, Vaishnavism views Direct meaning as the primary interpretations of texts or scriptures. Both traditions emphasize the importance of clear understanding in interpreting teachings and texts, although they approach the concept from different doctrinal angles.

Synonyms: Literal meaning, Explicit meaning, Straightforward meaning, Clear meaning, Denotative meaning

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

Buddhist concept of 'Direct meaning'

Buddhism Books

In Buddhism, Direct meaning encompasses explicit sutras focused on clear teachings, straightforward interpretations, and a deeper understanding of the Doctrine, distinguishing it from more indirect meanings.

Significance of Direct meanings in Tibetan Buddhism (Vajrayana or tantric Buddhism):

Tibetan Buddhism Books

From: Blue Annals (deb-ther sngon-po)

(1) The underlying, true interpretation of the Doctrine, which one strives to understand deeply.^[1] (2) Refers to a classification of sutras that convey direct and explicit teachings, as distinguished from those of indirect meaning.^[2]

From: Tattvasangraha [with commentary]

(1) The explicit, clear interpretation of a statement, typically characterized by straightforward and literal understanding.^[3]

Tibetan Buddhism includes schools such as Nyingma, Kadampa, Kagyu and Gelug. Their primary canon of literature is divided in two broad categories: The Kangyur, which consists of Buddha’s words, and the Tengyur, which includes commentaries from various sources. Esotericism and tantra techniques (vajrayana) are collected indepently.

Hindu concept of 'Direct meaning'

Hinduism Books

In Hinduism, Direct meaning signifies the primary interpretations of texts or scriptures, focusing on the straightforward and literal implications of the teachings without delving into deeper or metaphorical interpretations.

Significance of Direct meanings in Vaishnavism (Vaishava dharma):

Vaishnavism Books

From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)

(1) The primary meanings of texts or scriptures.^[4]

Vaishnava or vaishnavism (vaishnavism) represents a tradition of Hinduism worshipping Vishnu as the supreme Lord. Similar to the Shaktism and Shaivism traditions, Vaishnavism also developed as an individual movement, famous for its exposition of the dashavatara (‘ten avatars of Vishnu’).

Significance of Direct meanings in Kavyashastra (science of poetry):

Kavyashastra Books

From: Sahitya-kaumudi by Baladeva Vidyabhushana

(1) Direct meaning is a straightforward interpretation of a term, without any layers of meaning or indirect nuances.^[5]

Kavyashastra refers to the ancient Indian tradition of poetry (kavya). Canonical literature (shastra) of the includes encyclopedic manuals dealing with prosody, rhetoric and various other guidelines serving to teach the poet how to compose literature.

Significance of Direct meanings in Vedanta (school of philosophy):

Vedanta Books

From: Chandogya Upanishad (Shankara Bhashya)

(1) An interpretation of a term based on its clear and apparent significance.^[6]

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).

Plural form: Direct meanings.

Last Updated: 25 October, 2024