Significance of Discourse
Synonyms: Discussion, Conversation, Dialogue, Communication, Debate, Exchange, Talk
In Dutch: Gesprek; In German: Diskurs; In Finnish: Keskustelu; In Spanish: Discurso
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Discourse'
In Buddhism, Discourse encompasses teachings and conversations led by the Buddha and his disciples, covering moral and philosophical insights, spiritual principles, and foundational concepts of friendship and enmity, often recorded as Suttas or Suttanta.
From: Maha Buddhavamsa—The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) The teachings delivered by the Buddha to both Ambapali and the Licchavi princes content regarding the benefits of the Dhamma.[1] (2) Teachings or sermons delivered by the Buddha intended to convey vital spiritual knowledge.[2] (3) The act of teaching or discussing spiritual principles, particularly related to the Buddha's teachings to the assembled beings.[3] (4) Referred to as Suttas, teachings or discourses by the Buddha that the bhikkhu versed in them was knowledgeable about.[4]
From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) The discussion or teaching session led by the Master that concluded with a moral interpretation of the story.[5] (2) A formal discussion or dialogue regarding a topic, in this case, the nature of friendship and enmity.[6] (3) The conversation or explanation given by the Master to the Brethren regarding the misconceptions shared by the brothers about the tree.[7] (4) The conversation or teaching that took place among the Elders and later recounted by the Master.[8]
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) A formal discussion or sermon provided by the Buddha, focusing on important philosophical and moral teachings.[9] (2) The conversation in which the Buddha explained his state of being to Upaka.[10] (3) A formal speech or sermon delivered by the Buddha, containing teachings and insights.[11]
From: Vinaya (3): The Cullavagga
(1) Religious conversations or teachings that are shared among the Bhikkhus, particularly highlighted in the context of the teaching of Ananda.[12]
From: Abhidhamma in Daily Life
(1) The Suttanta, which contains teachings and explanations provided by the Buddha to different people at various places.[13]
From: Blue Annals (deb-ther sngon-po)
(1) Teachings delivered to Bari by Arya Avalokiteshvara, which he received frequently during his stay in India.[14]
Hindu concept of 'Discourse'
In Hinduism, Discourse encompasses the broader narratives and texts that convey teachings, while also highlighting the role of conversation and storytelling as forms of entertainment within rituals.
From: Gobhila-grihya-sutra
(1) Engaging in conversation or storytelling that serves as entertainment during specific rituals.[15]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) Refers to the larger narrative or text that encompasses the teachings being discussed, including verses and interpretations.[16]
Jain concept of 'Discourse'
In Jainism, Discourse signifies the varied spoken or written communications by tirthankaras, which influence their teachings and the vows that followers are expected to adhere to, highlighting the diversity in conveyance of spiritual principles.
From: Bhagavati-sutra (Viyaha-pannatti)
(1) The spoken or written communication that differs among tirthankaras, impacting the teachings and vows prescribed to their followers.[17]