Significance of Exposition

Exposition in Jainism involves teaching and explaining principles derived from the twelve angas, emphasizing the importance of imparting knowledge by the Master. In literary contexts, such as Kavya, it refers to Bhashyam, which is a commentary that explicates aphorisms. In Vyakarana, Exposition takes the form of Upanyasa, which denotes a thorough interpretation or detailed explanation of specific topics. Overall, Exposition serves as a vital means of elucidating complex ideas across various fields of study.

Synonyms: Explanation, Interpretation, Reveal, Description, Commentary, Account

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

Buddhist concept of 'Exposition'

Buddhism Books

Exposition in Buddhism involves Nagasena clarifying why the Tathagata refrains from teaching the Dharma, emphasizing the importance of context and understanding in conveying Buddhist teachings effectively.

Significance of Exposition in Theravada (major branch of Buddhism):

Theravada Books

From: Milindapanha (questions of King Milinda)

(1) The explanation or clarification provided by Nagasena regarding the reasons behind the Tathagata's reticence to teach the Dharma.^[1]

Theravada is a major branch of Buddhism having the the Pali canon (tipitaka) as their canonical literature, which includes the vinaya-pitaka (monastic rules), the sutta-pitaka (Buddhist sermons) and the abhidhamma-pitaka (philosophy and psychology).

Hindu concept of 'Exposition'

Hinduism Books

In Hinduism, Exposition encompasses Upanyasa, which offers detailed interpretations of topics, and Bhashyam, which involves explaining aphorisms with added commentary, enriching the understanding of sacred texts.

Significance of Exposition in Kavya (poetry):

Kavya Books

From: Dvisahasri of Tembesvami (Summary and Study)

(1) Bhashyam refers to an exposition that explains aphorisms with supplemental commentary.^[2]

Kavya refers to Sanskrit poetry, a popular ancient Indian tradition of literature. There have been many Sanskrit poets over the ages, hailing from ancient India and beyond. This topic includes mahakavya, or ‘epic poetry’ and natya, or ‘dramatic poetry’.

Significance of Exposition in Vyakarana (Sanskrit grammar):

Vyakarana Books

From: Amarakoshodghatana of Kshirasvamin (study)

(1) Upanyasa, refers to a detailed explanation or interpretation of a topic.^[3]

Vyakarana refers to Sanskrit grammar and represents one of the six additional sciences (vedanga) to be studied along with the Vedas. Vyakarana concerns itself with the rules of Sanskrit grammar and linguistic analysis in order to establish the correct context of words and sentences.

Jain concept of 'Exposition'

Jainism Books

In Jainism, Exposition signifies the interpretation and teaching of core principles from the twelve angas, facilitated by a Master to convey essential teachings and reinforce understanding within the tradition.

Significance of Exposition in Jainism (general):

From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra

(1) The act of explaining or teaching the principles derived from the twelve angas by the Master.^[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.

Last Updated: 27 October, 2024