Significance of Omniscient Buddhas
Omniscient Buddha is a term referring to the Buddha's complete and perfect knowledge, distinguishing between mundane kingship and spiritual enlightenment. This title highlights the Buddha as an all-knowing teacher, capable of imparting wisdom and understanding about all aspects of existence. Different Buddhist traditions, including Tibetan, Mahayana, and Theravada, emphasize the Buddha's attribute of being fully aware and knowledgeable, capable of guiding others and providing profound insight into life and enlightenment. This concept reflects the highest level of wisdom attainable.
Synonyms: All-knowing buddha, All-wise buddha, Enlightened buddha
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Omniscient Buddhas'
The term "Omniscient Buddha" in Buddhism signifies a fully enlightened being with complete and perfect knowledge of all existence. This title underscores the Buddha's unparalleled wisdom, spiritual enlightenment, and ability to guide and teach others effectively.
From: Maha Buddhavamsa—The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) Buddhas who possess complete knowledge, wisdom, and understanding of reality, free from any defilements.[1] (2) A title reflecting the Buddha's complete knowledge and understanding, as perceived by his followers.[2] (3) A title reflecting the Buddha's all-knowing nature, indicating his profound wisdom and understanding of all aspects of existence.[3] (4) A Buddha who possesses the full understanding of all that is worthy of understanding.[4] (5) A title given to a Buddha who has achieved complete and perfect understanding of all things.[5]
From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) A figure possessing all-encompassing knowledge, to whom profound questions should be directed, as mentioned in the context of the king's inquiry.[6] (2) A title ascribed to the Buddha, emphasizing his all-knowing nature and vast wisdom.[7]
From: Abhidhamma in Daily Life (by Ashin Janakabhivamsa)
(1) The concept of the Buddha as one who possesses infinite knowledge, which is questioned in terms of his existence.[8] (2) The Buddha is portrayed as having attained enlightenment and was so overwhelmed with piti that he remained focused on his victory for days.[9]
From: A Discourse on Paticcasamuppada
(1) The enlightened being who possesses complete knowledge and understanding of all aspects of existence.[10]
From: Apadana commentary (Atthakatha)
(1) Refers to Buddhas like Dipankara who possess complete knowledge and are free from lust, acting as dispensers of wisdom.[11] (2) The Buddha, who possesses complete and perfect knowledge, deserving of deep respect and homage.[12] (3) Refers to the enlightened state of the Buddha, emphasizing the difference between mundane kingship and spiritual enlightenment.[13] (4) A title for the Buddha, emphasizing His all-knowing nature and benevolent guidance.[14] (5) Refers to the Buddha as an all-knowing being, highlighting his wisdom and the importance of his teachings.[15]
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) The Buddha calls himself omniscient (sarvajna), indicating his complete and perfect knowledge of all existing things.[16] (2) A title referring to the knowledge of all things attributed to the Buddha Ratnakara.[17] (3) The Buddha's attribute of having complete and unlimited knowledge and awareness.[18] (4) A being of complete wisdom and knowledge, which Shakra seeks due to his doubts.[19] (5) Refers to the Buddha's nature as being all-knowing and aware of all truth without needing instruction from others.[20]
From: Tattvasangraha [with commentary]
(1) The concept of Buddha as all-knowing and fully aware of all aspects of existence, including primordial matter and spirits.[21]