Significance of Philosophy

Philosophy in Hinduism encompasses various perspectives, with each tradition reflecting unique approaches to fundamental questions of existence, knowledge, and spirituality. In Shaiva-darshana, it aims to unite the soul with God, while Vaishnavism delves into ethical frameworks and the nature of reality. Different texts like Arthashastra, Natyashastra, and Yoga emphasize intellectual exploration and moral understanding. Vedanta and Dharmashastra contribute to discussions on self-knowledge and logic. Overall, Philosophy serves as a cohesive term for diverse schools of thought on existence and reality.1
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Synonyms: Wisdom, Doctrine, Ideology, Philosophy of life, Logic, Belief system, Belief, World view, Reasoning, Ethics

In Dutch: Filosofie; In Finnish: Filosofia; In Spanish: Filosofía; In German: Philosophie

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

Hindu concept of 'Philosophy'

Hinduism Books

Philosophy in Hinduism encompasses a systematic contemplation of existence, spirituality, and ethical frameworks, integrating discussions on logic and self-understanding while addressing fundamental questions of reality, knowledge, and the essence of wisdom.

Significance in Vaishnavism (Vaishava dharma):
Vaishnavism Books

From: Srila Gurudeva (The Supreme Treasure)

(1) A study or system that involves contemplation and analysis of the fundamental questions regarding existence and spirituality.[1]

From: Garga Samhita (English)

(1) The study of fundamental questions regarding existence, knowledge, values, reason, and the nature of reality.[2]

Vaishnava or vaishnavism (vaishnavism) represents a tradition of Hinduism worshipping Vishnu as the supreme Lord. Similar to the Shaktism and Shaivism traditions, Vaishnavism also developed as an individual movement, famous for its exposition of the dashavatara (‘ten avatars of Vishnu’).

Significance in Dharmashastra (religious law):
Dharmashastra Books

From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi

(1) A broader intellectual pursuit that encompasses discussions on logic and understanding of the self.[3]

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.

Significance in Hinduism (general):

From: The Sarva-Darsana-Samgraha

(1) The object of Shaiva-darshana, aiming to disunite the soul from matter and gradually unite it to God.[4]

Significance in Vedanta (school of philosophy):
Vedanta Books

From: Brahma Sutras (Shankaracharya)

(1) Philosophy, as understood in the context of the Upanishads, can be seen as an agreement in certain fundamental features, allowing for an indication of the outlines of a philosophy.[5]

Vedanta refers to a school of orthodox Hindu philosophy (astika), drawing its subject-matter from the Upanishads. There are a number of sub-schools of Vedanta, however all of them expound on the basic teaching of the ultimate reality (brahman) and liberation (moksha) of the individual soul (atman).

The concept of Philosophy in local and regional sources

History Books

Philosophy is an expansive field encompassing diverse thoughts on knowledge and existence, studied by figures like Mr. Lakshmana Pillai and Sri M.P. Pandit, while also prompting fundamental discussions on ethics in conversations, such as those by Rohidas.

Significance in India history and geography:

From: Triveni Journal

(1) An overarching term that encompasses various schools of thought and beliefs concerning knowledge, existence, and the nature of reality.[6] (2) One of the extensive subjects written on by Sri M.P. Pandit, reflecting his broad intellectual interests.[7] (3) A field of study that Mr. Lakshmana Pillai graduated in, implying a deep reflection on life and art integral to his music.[8]

From: Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints

(1) A field of study concerned with fundamental questions about existence, knowledge, and ethics, mentioned in the context of Rohidas's conversation.[9]