Significance of False belief
False belief, as defined across various spiritual traditions, encompasses incorrect perceptions and misunderstandings that hinder individuals from achieving true spiritual enlightenment and understanding. In Jainism, it refers to misguided faith and misconceptions that obstruct spiritual progress and lead to suffering. Similarly, in other traditions like Vedanta, Mahayana, and Theravada, false belief includes misunderstandings about the self, morality, and reality, which arise from ego, craving, or ignorance. Ultimately, false belief is seen as a significant barrier to spiritual liberation and well-being.
Synonyms: Misconception, Delusion, Fallacy, Mistaken belief, Erroneous belief, False impression, Misunderstanding, Illusion, Mistaken idea
In Dutch: Vals geloof; In Finnish: Väärä usko
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'False belief'
In Buddhism, False belief encompasses misconceptions about self and reality, particularly regarding ego and non-adherence to the Eightfold Path. These misunderstandings hinder spiritual progress, lead to suffering, and prevent enlightenment.
From: A Discourse on Paticcasamuppada
(1) Misconceptions that arise in connection to craving, including the belief in ego and the efficacy of practices other than those of the Eightfold Path.[1] (2) An erroneous conviction that opposes established truths about moral actions and their consequences.[2] (3) Misguided ideas and practices that deviate from true teachings and can lead followers further into ignorance and suffering.[3] (4) False beliefs are misconceptions about the nature of self and reality, which can hinder spiritual progress and lead to suffering.[4] (5) A misguided understanding or acceptance of practices that do not lead to genuine salvation or liberation.[5]
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) Misconceptions that can hinder one's spiritual journey and understanding.[6] (2) Misconceptions or incorrect understandings that can negatively influence a person’s choices and detrimental consequences.[7] (3) Beliefs that embrace what is incorrect or see faults where there are none, leading beings to duggati (woeful states).[8]
From: Abhidhamma in Daily Life (by Ashin Janakabhivamsa)
(1) Beliefs that are not based on true faith or understanding of Dhamma, often resulting from ignorance or delusion.[9]
From: Mahavastu (great story)
(1) Misguided views about morality and actions, as exemplified by characters like King Abhaya and merchant Dhruva.[10]
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) The misconception associated with the belief in an unchanging self (atman), which is deemed erroneous in higher understanding.[11]
From: Bodhisattvacharyavatara
(1) Misconceptions regarding the reality of objects or identities that contribute to suffering and delusion.[12]
Hindu concept of 'False belief'
In Hinduism, false belief encompasses misconceptions about reality, material ownership, and identity, impeding spiritual enlightenment and true understanding. It includes illusions of separation from the divine and errors propagated in literature, deterring liberation.
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) Misconceptions or false understandings that are held as truth.[13] (2) The mistaken perception that one is separate from or distinct from the divine nature.[14] (3) Illusions or misconceptions about reality that hinder true understanding and liberation.[15] (4) The mistaken understanding of the body as a permanent reality, which is dissolved upon realizing desires are simply illusions.[16] (5) The mistaken notion of corporeality and material ownership that hinders spiritual enlightenment.[17]
From: Shiva Purana
(1) Widespread misconceptions referenced by the Brahmin that indirectly relate to Parvati's devotion and her true desires.[18]
From: Harivamsha Purana
(1) A misconception or misjudgment about someone, leading to disappointment.[19]
From: Vivekachudamani
(1) A misunderstanding or incorrect perception that arises from neglecting one's real nature.[20]
From: Kavyamimamsa of Rajasekhara (Study)
(1) Misconceptions that are propagated through literature, specifically poetry, that may mislead individuals.[21]
Jain concept of 'False belief'
False belief in Jainism, or mithyadrishti, refers to misconceptions that hinder spiritual progress, causing negative emotions, discord, and misguided faith. It obstructs true understanding and leads to suffering, as seen in the stories of Dhumaketu and Palaka.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) An incorrect perception or understanding that contributes to negative emotions and discord.[22] (2) Misguided or incorrect faith in entities or practices that deviate from true spiritual teachings.[23] (3) Misconceptions or erroneous understanding that can lead one astray in their spiritual path.[24] (4) A misguided perception that led Dhumaketu to suffer through multiple rebirths and failures to understand the truth.[25] (5) An erroneous understanding that Jamali expressed concerning the nature of action and being.[26]
From: Tattvartha Sutra (with commentary)
(1) False belief (mithyadrishti) refers to the misperception bound by karma that prevents individuals from attaining higher spiritual truths.[27]
The concept of False belief in scientific sources
False belief encompasses cultural misconceptions that contribute to the disregard for traditional knowledge on menstrual health and management, ultimately affecting how communities understand and address these vital health issues.
From: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
(1) Cultural misconceptions that may lead to neglect of traditional knowledge about menstrual health and management.[28]