Significance of Enlightened sage

Enlightened sages in Jainism are individuals who attain wisdom and spiritual liberation, as illustrated by king Nami. In Vaishnavism, they are seen as wise individuals who have conquered ignorance and gained profound knowledge. The Purana also depicts enlightened sages, specifically citing Sage Valmiki as a notable spiritual teacher who embodies wisdom and knowledge. Across these traditions, enlightened sages are revered for their insights and teachings, showcasing their critical role in spiritual development and education.

Synonyms: Wise guru, Learned teacher, Enlightened master, Spiritual guide, Wise sage, Learned sage, Wise philosopher

In Dutch: Verlichte wijze; In Finnish: Valaistunut salvia; In Spanish: Sabio iluminado

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

Hindu concept of 'Enlightened sage'

Hinduism Books

In Hinduism, Enlightened sages are wise individuals who transcend ignorance through profound knowledge, exemplified by spiritual teachers like Sage Valmiki, who embody deep understanding and guide others on their spiritual journeys.

Significance in Vaishnavism (Vaishava dharma):
Vaishnavism Books

From: Tiruvaymoli (Thiruvaimozhi): English translation

(1) Wise individuals who have overcome ignorance and possess deep knowledge.[1]

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 in Vedanta (school of philosophy):
Vedanta Books

From: Taittiriya Upanishad

(1) A person who has realized Brahman and experiences the oneness with all beings, enjoying all pleasures simultaneously.[2]

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).

Significance in Purana and Itihasa (epic history):
Purana Books

From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Shastri)

(1) A wise and knowledgeable spiritual teacher, here referring specifically to Sage Valmiki.[3]

The Purana refers to Sanskrit literature preserving ancient India’s vast cultural history, including historical legends, religious ceremonies, various arts and sciences. The eighteen mahapuranas total over 400,000 shlokas (metrical couplets) and date to at least several centuries BCE.

Jain concept of 'Enlightened sage'

Jainism Books

In Jainism, Enlightened sages are individuals like King Nami who attain profound wisdom and insight, ultimately achieving spiritual liberation and serving as exemplars of Jain teachings and the path to enlightenment.

Significance in Jainism (general):

From: Uttaradhyayana Sutra

(1) A person who has achieved wisdom and insight, leading to spiritual liberation, exemplified by king Nami.[4]

Jainism is an Indian religion of Dharma whose doctrine revolves around harmlessness (ahimsa) towards every living being. The two major branches (Digambara and Svetambara) of Jainism stimulate self-control (or, shramana, ‘self-reliance’) and spiritual development through a path of peace for the soul to progess to the ultimate goal.

Plural form: Enlightened sages.