Significance of Right knowledge
Right knowledge, as defined across various spiritual traditions, is the accurate understanding and comprehension of reality that leads to liberation, enlightenment, and ethical living. In Hinduism, it arises through the proper study of texts and discernment of true existence. Jainism emphasizes its role in recognizing truth and aligning with spiritual realities. Likewise, Buddhism and other philosophies highlight its importance for understanding the nature of suffering and fostering spiritual development. Overall, right knowledge is essential for transcending illusion and achieving ultimate liberation or moksha.
Synonyms: Correct understanding, Sound judgment, Correct insight
In Dutch: Juiste kennis
In Finnish: Oikea tieto
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Right knowledge'
Right knowledge in Buddhism entails an accurate understanding of reality, principles of Dhamma, and ethical living. It promotes wisdom and spiritual development, guiding individuals toward liberation and enlightenment while emphasizing the importance of valid sources like the Veda.
From: Tattvasangraha [with commentary]
(1) Knowledge that is accurate and aligns with truth. The text critiques the potential loss of Right Knowledge when invalid methods are used.[1] (2) Accurate understanding that is potentially ensured through the contributions of authors of the Veda, as opposed to being independently derived.[2] (3) Knowledge that is accurate and leads to understanding, especially in a spiritual context.[3] (4) Knowledge that is accurate and reliable, which is established through the Veda and considered trustworthy.[4] (5) A proper understanding or awareness of dharma and adharma, which according to the text, is not definitively ascertainable.[5]
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) Accurate understanding that leads to wisdom and is crucial for spiritual development.[6] (2) Knowledge that is accurate and true, which the Buddha has acquired, allowing his teachings to be infallible.[7]
From: Shurangama Sutra (with commentary) (English)
(1) An understanding aligned with the true principles of the Buddhadharma.[8]
From: Lankavatara Sutra
(1) An understanding that transcends erroneous views and embraces the reality of interdependence and emptiness.[9]
From: Mahayana Mahaparinirvana Sutra
(1) An understanding gained from meditation that leads to clarity about the nature of existence and reality.[10]
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) Understanding that guides individuals toward ethical living and liberation from worldly attachments, important in Jain teachings.[11] (2) The accurate understanding of things as they truly are, which serves as the basis for true wisdom.[12]
From: Visuddhimagga (the pah of purification)
(1) Understanding that aligns with the ultimate truth, necessary for achieving liberation.[13] (2) An understanding that enables individuals to progress along the path towards purity and enlightenment.[14]
From: Guide to Tipitaka
(1) The understanding of the true nature of reality and the principles of Dhamma, crucial for liberation.[15]
Hindu concept of 'Right knowledge'
Right knowledge in Hinduism signifies an accurate comprehension of reality, essential for removing ignorance and suffering, achieving liberation, and recognizing the unity of the Self (Atman) with Brahman, aligning with spiritual growth and enlightenment.
From: Prasthanatrayi Swaminarayan Bhashyam (Study)
(1) Knowledge that successfully apprehends and reveals its corresponding object as it is and is conducive to life.[16] (2) An accurate and insightful understanding of reality that leads to enlightenment.[17] (3) Understanding and insights that are acquired successfully by a devotee with faith.[18] (4) Knowledge that leads to liberation, supreme peace, and contentment; it is necessary for spiritual elevation.[19] (5) Jnana, the understanding of the true nature of the self, divine, and the material world.[20]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad
(1) The accurate understanding of the true nature of Brahman that ensures liberation (moksha) from the cycle of birth and death.[21] (2) The accurate understanding that the Self (Atman) is one with Brahman, distinguishing it from a mere belief that encourages action.[22] (3) The accurate understanding of Brahman, which can be achieved through upasanas and prescribed works.[23]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad Bhashya Vartika
(1) The correct understanding or insight that is essential for comprehending spiritual truths.[24] (2) The understanding or insight that arises in an individual whose mind is pure.[25] (3) This denotes the correct understanding that removes ignorance and reveals the true nature of existence and the Self.[26]
From: Brahma Sutras (Shankara Bhashya)
(1) Knowledge that is accurate and valid, pertaining to Brahman, as derived from the scriptures.[27] (2) Knowledge that is considered valid and effective for understanding spiritual concepts and attaining liberation, as opposed to mere intellectual grasping.[28] (3) The means through which understanding and wisdom are attained; indicated as contradicted by the illogical teachings of the Bauddha system.[29]
From: Mandukya Upanishad (Gaudapa Karika and Shankara Bhashya)
(1) Understanding or insight that can destroy faith in causality, leading to the cessation of the cycle of birth and death.[30] (2) Accurate understanding that contrasts with false knowledge and is related to the true nature of reality.[31]
From: Mandukya Upanishad (Madhva commentary)
(1) An accurate understanding of reality that leads to liberation and the cessation of false notions.[32] (2) The true understanding of God and existence, which would lead to the end of the false notion of prapanca.[33]
From: Brahma Sutras (Ramanuja)
(1) An understanding that focuses on things that exhibit differences; essential for discerning proof regarding substances.[34]
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) An understanding that dispels ignorance and egoism, guiding individuals towards spiritual liberation and an authentic existence.[35] (2) The understanding attained through proper training and effort, which leads to spiritual elevation.[36] (3) An understanding that transcends superficial appearances, recognizing the underlying essence of reality.[37] (4) The understanding of the defects and fallibility of human nature.[38] (5) An enlightened understanding that allows one to see the impermanent nature of phenomena and material existence.[39]
From: Garuda Purana
(1) The correct understanding that emerges when the self is truly reflected in the mind.[40] (2) Correct understanding and perception of the self which leads to liberation from the cycle of birth and death.[41]
From: Matsya Purana (critical study)
(1) An interpretation of the term Samkhya derived from the root khya, referring to correct understanding or knowledge.[42]
From: Padma Purana
(1) Understanding that helps one to detach from material desires and find true happiness and contentment.[43]
From: Yoga-sutras (Ancient and Modern Interpretations)
(1) Carvakas claim that moksha is not a result of acquiring right knowledge, which contrasts with many other philosophical views.[44] (2) Right knowledge is the understanding of reality which helps in eliminating ignorance and promoting spiritual growth.[45] (3) Understanding that correctly identifies objects, seen as essential to destroy false notions and resulting sufferings.[46] (4) Described as pramana, this indicates true, self-evident knowledge that leads the mind toward clarity and understanding.[47] (5) Right knowledge encompasses the valid insights gained through direct cognition, inference, and the words of enlightened individuals.[48]
From: Yoga-sutras (with Vyasa and Vachaspati Mishra)
(1) The accurate understanding or perception of reality that leads to a neutral or indifferent emotional response to external objects.[49] (2) Correct understanding or perception that removes wrong knowledge.[50] (3) Understanding that provides the means to remove pain and suffering, essential for achieving liberation.[51]
From: Yoga-sutras (with Bhoja’s Rajamartanda)
(1) A correct understanding or comprehension of the reverted perception, achieved through repetition and reflection, particularly by Yogis.[52]
From: The Sarva-Darsana-Samgraha
(1) Understanding derived from proper study and interpretation of texts that leads to correct action and decision.[53] (2) Accurate comprehension linked with valid inference, crucial for attaining final bliss.[54] (3) Knowledge that accurately recognizes the nature of reality, undisturbed by illusions or doubts.[55]
From: Padarthadharmasamgraha and Nyayakandali
(1) The correct understanding or awareness of truth, which false Tradition fails to provide.[56] (2) Knowledge that is accurate and based on valid sources, which true Tradition can help to establish.[57] (3) The means by which individuals can perceive and understand the nature of Communities and Individualities distinctly.[58]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) Accurate understanding of the subject matter that qualifies a witness to provide valid evidence.[59] (2) An understanding of the true nature of self and reality that is cultivated through disciplined practice of Yoga.[60]
From: Vakyapadiya of Bhartrihari
(1) An understanding aligned with truth that leads to unity with the divine essence, identified as light.[61] (2) Accurate understanding that is a product of the teachings derived from the Veda.[62]
From: Sivaprakasam (Study in Bondage and Liberation)
(1) An essential component of Jainism that constitutes understanding the true nature of reality.[63]
From: Nyayakusumanjali of Udayana (study)
(1) Essential understanding required for liberation, whose distinction in Nyaya is notable, presenting a different approach than Vedanta.[64]
Jain concept of 'Right knowledge'
Right knowledge in Jainism, or samyagjnana, signifies accurate understanding of spiritual truths essential for liberation. It involves discernment of reality, truth of suffering, and alignment with teachings, facilitating personal development and emancipation from the cycle of birth and death.
From: Tattvartha Sutra (with commentary)
(1) Another component of the ratnatraya, crucial for understanding the teachings of the Lord.[65] (2) Knowledge that aligns with the principles leading towards liberation.[66] (3) Known as samyagjnana, this refers to the five forms of accurate knowledge mentioned earlier, which contrast with the wrong forms of knowledge.[67] (4) Knowledge that is accurate and true, as opposed to erroneous knowledge that coexists with wrong beliefs.[68] (5) Understanding or wisdom that is promoted in the recipient as a result of receiving a charitable gift.[69]
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) A principle that is necessary for obtaining true understanding and achieving liberation from karma.[70] (2) A form of knowledge sought by Vikramadhana that leads to understanding Dhana's destiny.[71] (3) Enlightenment on the Principles as they truly are, a key aspect of personal development.[72] (4) The accurate understanding and realization of spiritual truths, which is essential for achieving right-belief and ultimately emancipation.[73] (5) Defined as samyag-jnana, it is the accurate understanding attained through diligent study, leading to enlightenment and liberation.[74]
From: Uttaradhyayana Sutra
(1) Knowledge free from obstruction, as defined by the Karman that hinders understanding.[75] (2) An important component of the road to final deliverance, encompassing fivefold knowledge that includes various types of understanding.[76] (3) A state of understanding that includes awareness of the truth of suffering and the cycle of life, leading toward liberation.[77]
From: Yogadrstisamuccaya of Haribhadra Suri (Study)
(1) Knowledge that is accompanied by right faith, leading to true understanding within the context of yoga.[78] (2) A type of knowledge (samyagjnana) that leads to proper understanding and spiritual welfare, aiding the kanta drishti beholder in distinguishing between reality and illusion in worldly enjoyment.[79]
From: Sutrakritanga (English translation)
(1) An understanding of truth and reality that leads to liberation from suffering and the cycle of birth and death.[80]
From: Bhagavati-sutra (Viyaha-pannatti)
(1) The understanding necessary to discard falsehood and cultivate prudent behavior.[81]