Significance of Divine knowledge
Divine knowledge, as described in various Indian religious traditions, encompasses sacred understanding and spiritual insights facilitating enlightenment and liberation. In Hinduism, it relates to wisdom from divine sources, leading to higher truths and spiritual realizations. Jainism emphasizes unique insights from sages, while Vaishnavism highlights wisdom imparted through divine hymns. Puranic texts discuss enlightenment achieved through understanding the essence of existence. Across these traditions, Divine knowledge signifies a profound comprehension that transcends ordinary learning, guiding individuals toward spiritual awakening and unity with the divine.
Synonyms: Sacred wisdom, Divine insight, Spiritual understanding, Heavenly knowledge, Esoteric truth, Transcendental wisdom, Spiritual insight, Celestial wisdom
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Divine knowledge'
In Buddhism, Divine knowledge signifies the Buddha's exceptional insight, enabling Him to understand the intricate circumstances related to city-building and the spiritual beings (devas) involved, showcasing His profound awareness of both earthly and transcendental realms.
From: The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) Refers to the Buddha's unique insight which allowed Him to perceive the circumstances surrounding the city building and the devas.[1]
Hindu concept of 'Divine knowledge'
Divine knowledge in Hinduism symbolizes an elevated understanding of spiritual truths, attained through devotion and spiritual practices, resulting in enlightenment, liberation from worldly attachments, and recognition of the unity with the divine.
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) The understanding of spiritual truths and the nature of the universe as derived from divine contemplation.[2] (2) The understanding and insight that comes from a higher spiritual source, separate from worldly concerns.[3] (3) Understanding that transcends ordinary intellectual knowledge and embodies spiritual truth.[4] (4) An understanding gained through spiritual practice that transcends worldly knowledge.[5] (5) The profound understanding of the Divine that some beings achieve, leading them to enlightenment and divinity.[6]
From: The Skanda Purana
(1) Understanding of the ultimate truth, crucial for spiritual enlightenment and liberation.[7] (2) A form of higher understanding possessed by Vashishtha, who explains the fatal events that unfold to King Jalpa.[8] (3) The wisdom bestowed upon Sulakshana, enabling her to maintain her virtuous path and fulfill her duties.[9] (4) Understanding of spirituality and divine principles that leads to liberation and higher states of existence, associated with the Jnanins.[10] (5) An enlightened understanding that is valued more than mere physical gifts, and the basis for attaining identity with Vishnu.[11]
From: The Shiva Purana
(1) A spiritual insight possessed by the brahmin Yogin, providing him with a special understanding of existence.[12] (2) A profound understanding and insight bestowed upon Upamanyu as a result of his penance.[13] (3) The understanding attained by the hunter after his act of kindness, allowing him to see the futility of his previous actions.[14] (4) The ultimate understanding or realization that Vyasa seeks through his practices, devotion, and worship of the divine.[15] (5) Spiritual wisdom and insight granted by divine entities, enhancing understanding of the universe.[16]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) The enlightened understanding that Vibhishana wished to attain, demonstrating his dedication to righteousness.[17] (2) A spiritual awareness or insight possessed by divine beings.[18] (3) A deeper understanding of spiritual truths that guides individuals away from covetous behavior.[19] (4) Divine Knowledge encompasses eternal wisdom recognized as immutable, serving as the foundation of all creation and existence.[20] (5) Knowledge that originates from Narayana, described metaphorically as waves in the ocean that return to their source.[21]
From: The Padma Purana
(1) The wisdom associated with understanding and enlightenment that is purported to be accessible through the recitation of the Vasudeva hymn, leading to liberation from sin.[22] (2) The profound understanding possessed by Vamadeva about the behaviors and beliefs surrounding Vishnu.[23] (3) The spiritual wisdom that allows individuals to recognize and praise the divine form of Vishnu.[24] (4) Profound understanding and wisdom pertaining to divinity, achievable through pious acts.[25] (5) The understanding and comprehension sought by the sages that allows one to appreciate and relate to deeply spiritual truths.[26]
From: The Vishnu Purana
(1) The wisdom bestows upon Parashara by Pulastya, enabling him to understand cosmic truths.[27] (2) Sacred wisdom bestowed upon Parashara by Pulastya.[28] (3) The insight possessed by Krishna Dwaipayana allowing him to understand the intentions of the sages without their inquiry.[29] (4) A profound understanding of spiritual truths and principles, as imparted by Ribhu to his disciple.[30]
From: The Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) Sacred understanding that is imparted during the Diksha, leading to the removal of sins and spiritual enlightenment.[31] (2) Understanding and wisdom related to spiritual truths, which can significantly aid in the purification of the heart.[32]
From: The Brahma Purana
(1) The perceived understanding of the divine truth that Markandeya failed to grasp due to his delusion.[33]
From: The Linga Purana
(1) The higher understanding attained through spiritual practices that leads to liberation from the cycle of life.[34]
From: The Matsya Purana (critical study)
(1) Higher wisdom that leads to beatitude and liberation, as discussed in the context of Yoga.[35]
From: The Brihaddharma Purana (abridged)
(1) An elevated understanding or insight into spiritual truths, often acquired through faithful service and virtue.[36]
From: Lalitopakhyana (Lalita Mahatmya)
(1) A sacred understanding attained through spiritual practices, associated with the attainment of Siddhis (spiritual powers).[37]
From: The Bhagavata Purana
(1) The understanding and realization of the Supreme being, which annihilates ignorance.[38]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) An understanding that transcends mundane existence, which even the most enlightened beings, like Brahma and Shiva, struggle to fully comprehend.[39] (2) The sacred understanding granted by the Supreme Lord, pivotal for realizing one’s own spiritual essence.[40] (3) The comprehensive understanding and wisdom attributed to Nityananda as the Supersoul, encompassing all aspects of reality.[41] (4) The sacred or spiritual wisdom imparted by Brahma, which the Kumaras then shared with humanity.[42]
From: Tiruvaymoli (Thiruvaimozhi): English translation
(1) The superior understanding and insights imparted through the hymns of the Alvars and their expositors.[43] (2) A profound understanding pertaining to the Divine, which the Alvar possesses, comparable to that of Celestials.[44] (3) A sacred understanding of spiritual truths, granted by the Lord to His devotees.[45] (4) The sacred and spiritual understanding bestowed upon the Alvar by the Lord, which enables him to comprehend and sing His praises.[46]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) Understanding that leads to liberation and spiritual realizations, personified in the context of Mahalakshmi.[47] (2) Knowledge that is derived from a spiritual perspective, enabling understanding of higher truths.[48]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) Understanding and consciousness represented by kala incarnations.[49] (2) Wisdom that is revealed and understood to come from a higher spiritual or supernatural realm.[50]
From: Srila Gurudeva (The Supreme Treasure)
(1) The pure spiritual wisdom dispensed through the guru-parampara.[51]
From: Sivaprakasam (Study in Bondage and Liberation)
(1) The higher understanding and realization of God that transcends ordinary worship practices.[52] (2) Understanding that enlightens the self and enables realization of God.[53] (3) Knowledge that enables the self to grasp higher truths beyond the limited understanding of the finite knowledge.[54]
From: Tiruvacakam Part I
(1) The ultimate understanding and insight gained through devotion, leading the soul toward deeper connection with the divine.[55]
From: Bharadvaja-srauta-sutra
(1) Described as the stability of mind and speech, essential for conducting sacrifices and offering oblations.[56] (2) A higher understanding or spiritual insight that guides the purification process and the rituals performed.[57]
From: Apastamba Dharma-sutra
(1) The understanding and realization of spiritual truths, often attained through the study of Vedic texts and participation in rituals.[58]
From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)
(1) The spiritual wisdom and insight attributed to Dhanavati, aiding in the protection and success of Naravahanadatta.[59]
From: Harsha-charita
(1) Wisdom that transcends ordinary understanding, often associated with the gods and the Vedas.[60]
From: Satapatha-brahmana
(1) Knowledge considered sacred or originating from the divine, indicative of the wisdom associated with the consumption of Soma.[61]
From: Shat-cakra-nirupana (the six bodily centres)
(1) The knowledge that is granted by Nirvana-kala, specifically referred to as Tattva-jnana or knowledge of the Brahman.[62]
From: Kashyapa Shilpa-shastra (study)
(1) Referenced in the context of what the ‘agama’ shows the way to; it is considered a high level of understanding associated with spiritual or religious truths.[63]
From: Vakyapadiya of Bhartrihari
(1) Divine knowledge is the elevated understanding or insight that transcends ordinary reasoning, often attributed to individuals who have undergone significant spiritual practices and followed tradition.[64]
From: Chandogya Upanishad (Shankara Bhashya)
(1) The eternal and infallible knowledge represented in the Vedas, visualized by sages as the result of austere penances.[65]
From: Varahi Tantra (English Study)
(1) The sacred teachings transmitted to practitioners by the Goddess in the Southern Tradition.[66]
From: Parama Samhita (English translation)
(1) The understanding and teachings directly imparted from the Supreme God, leading to spiritual enlightenment.[67]
Jain concept of 'Divine knowledge'
In Jainism, Divine knowledge is interpreted as the profound insight possessed by a sage, particularly concerning Padma's future and marital prospects, reflecting an understanding of life's intricate spiritual and ethical dimensions.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) Special insight held by a sage regarding Padma's future and marital prospects.[68]
The concept of 'Divine knowledge' in local and regional sources
Divine knowledge encompasses spiritual wisdom, enlightenment, and understanding derived from a higher power. It emphasizes clarity of self, divine connection, and the transformative insights gained through teachings from spiritual beings, facilitating a focused pursuit of God.
From: Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints
(1) Profound and sacred understanding pertaining to God and spiritual truths.[69] (2) Spiritual understanding or wisdom derived from a higher power.[70] (3) A form of knowledge believed to be sacred or heavenly, often associated with spiritual understanding and enlightenment.[71] (4) A form of enlightenment that enables Krishna to appreciate and proclaim the value of Jani's verses with joy.[72] (5) The spiritual understanding and insight received from a saint or divine being.[73]
From: Formal Education System in Ancient India
(1) The profound understanding of spiritual principles imparted from teacher to student as part of the learning journey.[74]