Significance of Reason

In Tibetan Buddhism, Reason encompasses two main aspects. First, it is the logical foundation that justifies claims about cognition and its limitations in adhering to conventional norms. Second, it serves as the logical basis for supporting a particular viewpoint or assertion. Overall, Reason plays a crucial role in understanding and articulating knowledge within the context of Tibetan Buddhist philosophy.

Synonyms: Cause, Explanation, Justification, Motivation, Purpose, Account, Logic, Motive, Ground

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

Buddhist concept of 'Reason'

Buddhism Books

In Buddhism, Reason is interpreted as the logical foundation supporting cognitive claims and assertions, emphasizing its limitations in adhering to conventional truths while reinforcing the validity of viewpoints within a philosophical context.

Significance of Reason in Tibetan Buddhism (Vajrayana or tantric Buddhism):

Tibetan Buddhism Books

From: Tattvasangraha [with commentary]

(1) The logic or rationale behind asserting the momentary nature of entities that can achieve useful purposes.^[1] (2) The logical basis or justification for a viewpoint or assertion.^[2] (3) The logical basis or justification for claims made regarding cognition and its incapacity to adhere to conventions.^[3]

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.

Significance of Reason in Theravada (major branch of Buddhism):

Theravada Books

From: Visuddhimagga (the pah of purification)

(1) The causal relationship existing between consciousness and its respective sensory bases, indicating that each consciousness is absent when its corresponding base is.^[4]

Theravada is a major branch of Buddhism having the the Pali canon (tipitaka) as their canonical literature, which includes the vinaya-pitaka (monastic rules), the sutta-pitaka (Buddhist sermons) and the abhidhamma-pitaka (philosophy and psychology).

Significance of Reason in Buddhism (general):

From: The Fo-Sho-Hing-Tsan-King (A Life of Buddha)

(1) Logical thinking that supports virtues and true friendships.^[5]

Hindu concept of 'Reason'

Hinduism Books

In Hinduism, Reason embodies the logical justification used in arguments to substantiate conclusions, demonstrating the significance of rational thought alongside spiritual beliefs in understanding and interpreting philosophical concepts.

Significance of Reason in Vaisheshika (school of philosophy):

Vaisheshika Books

From: Padarthadharmasamgraha and Nyayakandali

(1) The logical basis or justification presented in an argument aimed at proving the conclusion.^[6]

Vaisheshika refers to a school of orthodox Hindu philosophy (astika), drawing its subject-matter from the Upanishads. Vaisheshika deals with subjects such as logic, epistemology, philosophy and expounds concepts similar to Buddhism in nature

Significance of Reason in Vaishnavism (Vaishava dharma):

Vaishnavism Books

From: Garga Samhita (English)

(1) The explanation or justification behind someone's feelings or actions.^[7]

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’).

Last Updated: 30 October, 2024