Significance of Intelligence
Intelligence in various philosophical and religious contexts, including Tibetan Buddhism and Vaishnavism, encompasses qualities such as awareness, understanding, and the capacity for beneficial knowledge. In Tibetan Buddhism, it highlights the enduring nature of the soul and awareness termed 'Buddhi.' In Vaishnavism, it emphasizes wisdom that fosters devotion and spiritual discipline. Other traditions, including Purana, Yoga, and Vedanta, illustrate intelligence as a foundational trait essential for comprehending spiritual truths, making informed decisions, and engaging in divine connection. Each perspective recognizes intelligence as pivotal in spiritual growth and practice.
Synonyms: Wisdom, Intellect, Discrimination, Insight, Discernment, Reasoning, Understanding, Sagacity, Cleverness, Sharpness, Brilliance
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Intelligence'
In Buddhism, Intelligence encompasses understanding ('Buddhi'), beneficial knowledge from teachings, exceptional smartness exemplified by Shariputra, the wisdom promised through Suppavasa's offerings, and the soul's inherent quality, unchanging through its various states.
From: Tattvasangraha [with commentary]
(1) The quality referenced in relation to the teachings of the Expounder, highlighting the importance of beneficial knowledge.[1] (2) The inherent quality of the soul that remains constant throughout the changes in its states.[2] (3) The capacity for understanding and awareness, referred to as 'Buddhi' in the text.[3]
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) A measure of smartness that Shariputra surpassed others in, contributing to his recognition at a young age.[4]
From: Maha Buddhavamsa—The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) The benefit related to Suppavasa's offerings that promises wisdom in future existences.[5]
Hindu concept of 'Intelligence'
In Hinduism, Intelligence encompasses the understanding, reasoning, and discernment necessary for spiritual enlightenment and practical wisdom. It includes the ability to apply knowledge, engage in devotion, and recognize true spirituality, vital for personal growth and divine connection.
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) The understanding and wisdom to undertake activities that lead one closer to their worshipable Deity instead of confusing or diluting their devotion.[6] (2) The insight granted to Shri Parikshit by Shri Vasudeva, enabling him to understand the need for spiritual discipline and the seriousness of his actions.[7]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) the capacity for understanding and reasoning, attributed to Krsna[8] (2) The ability to acquire and apply knowledge and skills, represented by Lord Krishna's handprint.[9]
From: Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu
(1) The mental capability to think, understand, and remember, which is crucial for maintaining a spiritual focus amidst difficulties.[10]
From: Tiruvaymoli (Thiruvaimozhi): English translation
(1) The inherent capability endowed in the soul that enables one to comprehend spiritual truths and engage in the pursuit of divine connection.[11]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) Deep wisdom that enables devotees to distinguish true spirituality from superficial practices.[12]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki
(1) A trait attributed to Riksharajas, enhancing his ability to lead.[13]
From: Laghu-yoga-vasistha
(1) The capacity for awareness and understanding, which would be absent if the mind is paralyzed.[14]
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) The essence of awareness and consciousness that comprehends all realities and intelligibles within itself.[15]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad Bhashya Vartika
(1) The mental capacity to understand, reason, and make informed decisions, particularly in the context of spiritual inquiry.[16] (2) The capacity to understand and perform sacrifices and other deeds, recognized by the gods as Brahman.[17]
From: Katha Upanishad with Shankara’s Commentary
(1) A retentive memory of the import of books or knowledge that, as stated, does not help in attaining the atman.[18]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) A quality that flourishes in a man if he avoids the woman covered with impurity.[19]
From: Gobhila-grihya-sutra
(1) A characteristic that is invoked through ritual prayers during the child's upbringing.[20]
From: Bharadvaja-srauta-sutra
(1) A formula that acknowledges wisdom and understanding within the context of the offering.[21]
From: Bhishma Charitra
(1) A crucial quality desired for composing poetry effectively, being directed to Lord Shankara.[22]
From: Malatimadhava (study)
(1) A key quality that the Asvalayana Grihyasutra indicates a bridegroom should possess for being deemed suitable for marriage.[23]
From: Yoga-sutras (with Vyasa and Vachaspati Mishra)
(1) An agent of knowledge that knows the Purusha, which is characterized as non-intelligent.[24] (2) The capacity for knowledge and understanding, ascribed to the nature of the Purusha.[25]
From: Shaiva Upanishads (A Critical Study)
(1) The inherent wisdom or discerning awareness that is always present, separate from the physical senses.[26]
From: Vakyapadiya of Bhartrihari
(1) The capability that determines the particular form of objects that are deposited in time, allowing for action and memory.[27]
The concept of Intelligence in local and regional sources
Intelligence, in this context, encompasses both divine representations praised in hymns, connecting worship to a singular deity, and a heightened awareness for intuitive problem-solving, reflecting an evolved state of consciousness beyond mere conditioning.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) The capacity for rational thought and understanding, which the author felt was lacking in those who fostered violence against Gandhi.[28] (2) Various divine beings or aspects praised in hymns, seen as channels for expressing devotion to the One God.[29]
From: Self-Knowledge in Krishnamurti’s Philosophy
(1) Awakened awareness capable of directly perceiving problems and responding intuitively without conditioning.[30]