Significance of Presumption

Presumption in Tibetan Buddhism encompasses various interpretations, primarily focusing on beliefs or assumptions that lack effective proof regarding the existence of an omniscient being. It includes cognitive methods based on established facts, assumptions about word meaning, and reasoning that implies additional features in arguments. Additionally, it refers to assumptions made from prior knowledge, even when lacking complete evidence. Other traditions like Purana and Ayurveda also provide perspectives on presumption, emphasizing inference and context-based understanding.

Synonyms: Assumption, Belief, Expectation, Inference, Supposition, Conjecture, Speculation, Hypothesis

In Dutch: Vermoeden; In Finnish: Olettamus; In Spanish: Presunción; In German: Vermutung

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

Buddhist concept of 'Presumption'

Buddhism Books

In Buddhism, Presumption involves various cognitive processes, including assumptions based on prior knowledge, reasoning about established facts, and beliefs lacking full evidence, particularly in debates on Dharma, Adharma, and the nature of omniscience.

Significance in Tibetan Buddhism (Vajrayana or tantric Buddhism):
Tibetan Buddhism Books

From: Tattvasangraha [with commentary]

(1) A cognitive method that relies on reasoning about things different from the subject at hand, but cannot adequately explain Dharma and Adharma.[1] (2) An assumption made based on previously established knowledge, serving as a foundation for further cognition.[2] (3) The assumption or belief referenced by the Mimamsaka, which is being questioned.[3] (4) The act of assuming or inferring the Potency based on the evidence presented through the other means of cognition.[4] (5) The reasoning that allows the one-featured characteristic of being 'otherwise impossible' to imply further specific features in a logical argument.[5]

Tibetan Buddhism includes schools such as Nyingma, Kadampa, Kagyu and Gelug. Their primary canon of literature is divided in two broad categories: The Kangyur, which consists of Buddha’s words, and the Tengyur, which includes commentaries from various sources. Esotericism and tantra techniques (vajrayana) are collected indepently.

Hindu concept of 'Presumption'

Hinduism Books

In Hinduism, Presumption involves deriving indirect assumptions from context (Arthapatti) and interpreting beyond surface meaning. It includes reasoning to explain inexplicable statements (Arthapatti) and inferring alternative causes (Vibhavana) based on indirect clues.

Significance in Ayurveda (science of life):
Ayurveda Books

From: Sushruta Samhita, Volume 6: Uttara-tantra

(1) An assumption that can be derived indirectly from the context of a statement.[6]

Ayurveda is a branch of Indian science dealing with medicine, herbalism, taxology, anatomy, surgery, alchemy and related topics. Traditional practice of Ayurveda in ancient India dates back to at least the first millenium BC. Literature is commonly written in Sanskrit using various poetic metres.

Significance in Natyashastra (theatrics and dramaturgy):
Natyashastra Books

From: Natyashastra (English)

(1) Understanding something other than what is outwardly expressed based on sweet wording.[7]

Natyashastra refers to both the ancient Indian tradition (shastra) of performing arts, (natya—theatrics, drama, dance, music), as well as the name of a Sanskrit work dealing with these subjects. It also teaches the rules for composing Dramatic plays (nataka), construction and performance of Theater, and Poetic works (kavya).