Significance of Literal meanings
The concept of literal meaning varies across different philosophical and artistic traditions. In Buddhism, it emphasizes taking rules and teachings at face value, often leading to misinterpretation. Shilpashastra focuses on direct word translations that may lack context. Vaishnavism and Natyashastra highlight straightforward interpretations in spiritual texts and gestures, respectively. Meanwhile, Vedanta distinguishes between surface and deeper meanings. Kavyashastra elaborates on clear interpretations and their potential suggestiveness, marking literal meaning as the explicit, primary understanding of words devoid of metaphorical nuances.
Synonyms: Actual meaning, Original meaning, Straightforward meaning, Direct meaning, Explicit meaning
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Literal meanings'
In Buddhism, the literal meaning emphasizes understanding teachings strictly as presented, potentially obscuring their deeper significance and purpose, leading to misconceptions and an incomplete grasp of the intended spiritual insights.
From: Bodhinyana
(1) Taking the rules and teachings at face value, which can lead to an incorrect understanding of their purpose.[1]
Hindu concept of 'Literal meanings'
In Hinduism, Literal meaning encompasses the explicit, straightforward interpretation of words and phrases, serving as a foundation for deeper insights while distinguishing direct meanings from metaphorical or implied contexts. This clarity anchors spiritual texts' interpretations.
From: Sahitya-kaumudi by Baladeva Vidyabhushana
(1) The direct interpretation of words, which may not fully convey the intended emotional or implied significance.[2] (2) The meaning derived directly from the text, serving as a foundation for deeper interpretations.[3] (3) The direct or primary meaning of a word or phrase, without any metaphorical interpretation.[4] (4) The straightforward interpretation of words or phrases without any metaphorical or symbolic significance.[5] (5) The direct and explicit interpretations of phrases or sentences, as opposed to abstract או emotional implications.[6]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad Bhashya Vartika
(1) The straightforward or direct interpretations of words or phrases.[7]
From: Vivekachudamani
(1) The direct or surface meanings of words that are distinguished from their deeper, implied meanings in spiritual texts.[8]
From: Mandukya Upanishad
(1) The straightforward, primary interpretation of a statement, which the text argues is not applicable to the references of jiva and Atman.[9]
From: Mudrarakshasa (literary study)
(1) The explicit, dictionary definition of a term without metaphorical implications.[10]
From: Abhinaya-darpana (English)
(1) The direct significance of hand gestures, which is essential in the application of these signs across various castes.[11]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) The direct interpretations of spiritual texts, specifically referring to the Gita's straightforward understanding.[12]
From: Manasara (English translation)
(1) The direct translations of words that may lack contextual sense.[13]