Significance of Investigation

Investigation encompasses a range of definitions across different disciplines. In Dharmashastra, it involves a thorough examination of circumstances to uncover truth. Mahayana defines it as focused mental inquiry aimed at clarity, while Theravada views it as a mental examination through sensory inputs. In a scientific context, Investigation refers to various medical assessments such as blood counts and imaging studies, conducted to evaluate patient health and diagnose conditions before treatment. It plays a crucial role in understanding patient health and guiding clinical decisions.1
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Synonyms: Inquiry, Examination, Analysis, Research, Inspection, Study, Assessment, Review

In Dutch: Onderzoek; In Finnish: Tutkinta; In Spanish: Investigación; In German: Untersuchung

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

Buddhist concept of 'Investigation'

Buddhism Books

In Buddhism, Investigation involves focused inquiry for clarity, distinct from speculation, engaging both physical and mental aspects, and is linked to the concept of vitarka, emphasizing thoughtful examination and understanding.

Significance in Mahayana (major branch of Buddhism):
Mahayana Books

From: Shurangama Sutra (with commentary) (English)

(1) Concentration on a single principle or thought, distinct from speculation, aimed at clarity and understanding without distraction.[1]

From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra

(1) A mental activity or process associated with inquiry or examination, represented by vitarka.[2]

Mahayana is a major branch of Buddhism focusing on the path of a Bodhisattva (spiritual aspirants/ enlightened beings). Extant literature is vast and primarely composed in the Sanskrit language. There are many sutras of which some of the earliest are the various Prajnaparamita sutras.

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

From: A Manual of Abhidhamma

(1) The process of mental examination that occurs through both physical and mental doors.[3]

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 'Investigation'

Hinduism Books

In Hinduism, Investigation involves a detailed examination of circumstances or evidence, aimed at uncovering deeper truths. This process reflects a commitment to seeking understanding and clarity in spiritual and moral contexts.

Significance in Dharmashastra (religious law):
Dharmashastra Books

From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi

(1) The process of thoroughly examining circumstances or evidence to uncover the truth.[4]

Dharmashastra contains the instructions (shastra) regarding religious conduct of livelihood (dharma), ceremonies, jurisprudence (study of law) and more. It is categorized as smriti, an important and authoritative selection of books dealing with the Hindu lifestyle.

The concept of Investigation in scientific sources

Science Books

Investigation, in this context, involves conducting tests to assess a patient's health condition and track their response to treatments, ensuring effective management of their medical care.

Significance in Scientific journals, articles, etc.:

From: The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences

(1) The process of examining something in detail to discover facts, and the study conducts an in-depth investigation.[5]

This section includes scientific research in the field of healthcare, often involving traditional medicine systems such as Ayurveda, Unani, Siddha and Holistic health. It includes papers from scientific journals classified as either original, clinical or experimental research, review articles or case reports.

Plural form: Investigations.