Significance of Perception
Perception in various philosophical traditions, including Hinduism, Tibetan Buddhism, Purana, Yoga, Vedanta, Nyaya, Mahayana, and Theravada, encompasses the process through which individuals recognize, interpret, and understand sensory information and their surroundings. It is viewed as a vital source of knowledge derived from direct sensory experience. Each tradition highlights unique aspects, from distinguishing individual characteristics to the process of cognition, establishing perception as foundational in comprehending reality and facilitating awareness and interpretation of experiences.
Synonyms: Awareness, Insight, Understanding, Observation, Interpretation, Viewpoint, Consciousness, Discernment, Impression, Recognition, Intuition, Sensitivity
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Perception'
In Buddhism, Perception involves understanding realities, recognizing objects through characteristics, and interpreting sensory information, allowing clarity and awareness beyond mere concepts, reflecting the individual’s unique interpretations rather than universal truths.
From: Tattvasangraha [with commentary]
(1) The process of becoming aware of or interpreting sensory information through the senses.[1] (2) The process through which atoms are established in understanding, primarily through the apprehension of their common form.[2] (3) The process through which an individual recognises and understands the mixed character of an entity, which can lead to varied interpretations about it.[3] (4) The immediate recognition or awareness of an object or phenomenon, which in this context, is distinguished from inferential cognition.[4] (5) A means of cognition related to direct awareness or sensory experience, which is distinct from ratiocination.[5]
From: A Discourse on Paticcasamuppada
(1) The mental process of recognizing and interpreting sensory information, one of the five khandhas.[6]
From: Introducing Buddhist Abhidhamma
(1) The act of perceiving, crucial for creatures to gain clarity in understanding according to their perspectives.[7]
From: Patthana Dhamma
(1) Sanna, which allows citta to cognize and recognize objects through markers or characteristics.[8]
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) The manner in which realities are experienced or understood, which can lead to misunderstanding the true nature of dharmas.[9]
Hindu concept of 'Perception'
In Hinduism, Perception encompasses the sensory experience and interpretation of the world, facilitating understanding and knowledge acquisition. It is a crucial cognitive function and a primary source of knowledge, as highlighted by Udayana.
From: Yoga-sutras (with Bhoja’s Rajamartanda)
(1) The process of becoming aware of or understanding something through the senses, which is a critical component in the relationship between the perceiver and the object.[10] (2) Perception is that function of the thinking principle by which knowledge of external objects is acquired through the senses, focusing on common and peculiar characteristics.[11]
From: Yoga-sutras (Ancient and Modern Interpretations)
(1) Cognition derived from sense experience, distinguished as indeterminate and determinate.[12]
From: Siddhanta Sangraha of Sri Sailacharya
(1) One of the three valid means of knowledge, involving direct sensory experience with an object.[13]
From: Brihadaranyaka Upanishad
(1) The process through which an individual experiences and interprets the world.[14]
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) The process facilitated by the Intellect that allows beings to encounter and interpret experiences.[15]
From: Nyayakusumanjali of Udayana (study)
(1) One of the pramanas emphasized by Udayana as a source of knowledge, even in recognizing absence.[16]
From: The Sarva-Darsana-Samgraha
(1) The first kind of proof that involves direct sensory experience, regarded as foundational for establishing knowledge.[17]
From: Sahitya-kaumudi by Baladeva Vidyabhushana
(1) The process of recognizing and interpreting sensory stimuli, which can lead to errors like bhrantiman when misapplied.[18]