Significance of Loss of memory
Loss of memory is a multifaceted phenomenon referenced in various contexts, including Purana, Kavya, Yoga, Ayurveda, Vedanta, Rasashastra, Mahayana, Indian history, and science. It encompasses conditions such as cognitive decline due to distractions, forgetfulness from intense sorrow, and symptoms associated with epilepsy. Particularly noted is its representation in classical texts as apasmara, a state of derangement in memory and intelligence. Various interpretations highlight its significance in spiritual, psychological, and medical realms, showcasing its profound impact on human experience.
Synonyms: Amnesia, Forgetfulness, Memory impairment, Cognitive decline, Memory loss
In Dutch: Geheugenverlies; In Finnish: Muistin menetys
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Loss of memory'
In Buddhism, Loss of memory can signify forgetting teachings or insights, a condition the bodhisattva transcends through mastery of dharanis, reflecting their profound understanding and retention of spiritual knowledge.
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) The condition of forgetting teachings or insights, which the bodhisattva does not suffer from due to their mastery over dharanis.[1]
Hindu concept of 'Loss of memory'
In Hinduism, Loss of memory encompasses various interpretations: symptoms of dosha imbalance, epilepsy, divine influences, effects on Asuras, transitions at birth, curses like King Kalasha’s, delusions, cognitive distractions, and emotional turmoil impacting wisdom.
From: Bhagavata Purana
(1) A critical phase in which one's cognitive ability diminishes due to distractions, leading to a loss of wisdom.[2]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) The phenomenon that affected the Asuras when they were overwhelmed by divine forces, leading to their defeat.[3]
From: Skanda Purana
(1) The condition undergone by King Kalasha after being cursed, which led him to behave like a wild animal.[4]
From: Shiva Purana
(1) The inability to recall past experiences or knowledge, particularly relevant during the transition from the womb to the external world.[5]
From: Rasa Jala Nidhi, vol 5: Treatment of various afflictions
(1) A symptom resulting from the excess of the three doshas, contributing to the condition of apasmara.[6]
From: Charaka Samhita (English translation)
(1) A symptom related to epilepsy characterized by an inability to recall information and experiences.[7]
From: Brahma Sutras (Ramanuja)
(1) Refers to the absence or diminishing of recollection, attributed to the divine presence overseeing these faculties.[8]
From: Yoga-sutras (Ancient and Modern Interpretations)
(1) A state resulting from delusion where one forgets important lessons or discriminative abilities.[9]
From: Malatimadhava (study)
(1) A mental consequence that can occur during periods of intense sorrow.[10]
The concept of Loss of memory in local and regional sources
Loss of memory in the text relates to the King's forgetfulness about his marriage to Sakuntala, creating a central conflict, and Dr. R. S. Tiwary's condition, which manifests as frequent lapses in recalling names of loved ones.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) A condition experienced by Dr. R. S. Tiwary, characterized by frequent forgetfulness and an inability to recall names of close relatives.[11] (2) Refers to the King's forgetfulness regarding his marriage to Sakuntala, a central conflict in the narrative.[12]
The concept of Loss of memory in scientific sources
Loss of memory is a condition characterized by the diminished ability to recall past experiences or knowledge. It can arise from various causes, including disorders like Alzheimer’s, impacting one's recollection of learned information.
From: International Ayurvedic Medical Journal
(1) A key characteristic of Apasmara representing derangement in memory, intelligence, and cognitive functions.[13] (2) Condition where the ability to recall past experiences or knowledge is diminished or absent.[14] (3) The inability to recall past experiences or learned information, which can occur due to various causes including disorders like Alzheimer’s.[15]
From: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
(1) A condition referred to as Smritibhramsha in Ayurveda, targeted by the classical formulation of Ardraka Paka.[16] (2) A significant symptom of Apasmara characterized by the inability to recall information or experiences.[17]
From: Ayushdhara journal
(1) A prominent symptom in Apasmara, representing a reduction or absence of consciousness, which can lead to cognitive impairments and is a key feature in the diagnosis of epilepsy.[18]