Significance of Self-consciousness
Self-consciousness in various philosophical and spiritual traditions encompasses the awareness of oneself as a distinct entity. In Hinduism, it reflects notions of egoism and awareness of the body-soul relationship. Tibetan Buddhism highlights the understanding of one's consciousness, while Vaishnavism emphasizes innate spiritual awareness. The Purana discusses self-consciousness as essential for actions and true worship. Overall, it represents a fundamental awareness influencing identities, actions, and spiritual progress, serving as a critical component across different philosophical perspectives.
Synonyms: Awareness, Self-awareness, Social anxiety, Self-doubt, Introspection, Shyness, Discomfort, Bashfulness
In Dutch: Zelfbewustzijn
In Finnish: Itsetietoisuus
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Self-consciousness'
In Buddhism, self-consciousness signifies awareness of one's own consciousness and individuality, highlighting both the transformation of consciousness through yogic practices and the recognition of one's past experiences and states as integral to self-identity.
From: The Six Yogas of Naropa
(1) The awareness of one’s own consciousness, particularly in the context of transferring or transforming it into another body through specific yogic practices.[1]
From: Milindapanha (questions of King Milinda)
(1) The awareness of oneself as an individual, particularly in relation to one’s past states and experiences.[2]
Hindu concept of 'Self-consciousness'
Self-consciousness in Hinduism encompasses an inner awareness of truth, individuality, and existence, influencing liberation and suffering. It connects to self-identity and spiritual understanding, leading to the realization of one's true nature and essence.
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) The awareness of oneself as a separate entity, which guides individuals in their actions and responsibilities.[3] (2) A higher understanding that is the result of knowledge, contrasting with the unconsciousness produced by ignorance.[4] (3) Awareness of one's own thought processes and existence, which leads to deeper understanding of reality.[5] (4) Awareness of one's own existence and thoughts, often a barrier to achieving a higher meditative state.[6] (5) The awareness of one's own existence, which diminishes in advanced stages of yoga.[7]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) A state achieved by the serpent after realizing its past actions and the consequences of luxury and pride.[8] (2) A fundamental awareness that underpins actions and conduct, tied to the essence of beings.[9]
From: Agni Purana
(1) Self-consciousness is the first modification of consciousness, leading to the production of conceit.[10]
From: Laghu-yoga-vasistha
(1) The ultimate consciousness that manifests as Jiva, Ishvara, and Universe while being identical to them despite appearing different.[11]
From: Anugita (English translation)
(1) An awareness of the self that arises from egoism, distinguishing it from true self-knowledge.[12]
From: Markandeya Purana
(1) A concept that relates to awareness of one's own self, which Alarka contemplates in relation to pain and pleasure.[13]
From: Skanda Purana
(1) A concept described as the form of Parameshvara, highlighting the divine awareness and independence of the Supreme Being.[14]
From: Padma Purana
(1) An awareness of one's own existence and actions, particularly in relation to spiritual and worldly matters.[15]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad Bhashya Vartika
(1) The awareness of the Self as experienced by the jiva, demonstrating self-identity through thoughts like 'I am black' and 'I am happy.'[16] (2) The awareness of one's own existence and identity, distinguished from the not-Self.[17] (3) The awareness of the Self that constitutes one of the three sheaths in the subtle body.[18]
From: Mandukya Upanishad
(1) The awareness of one's own existence, beyond transient states of material awareness.[19] (2) The awareness of one's own internal experiences and knowledge, particularly prominent in the dream state.[20]
From: Brahma Sutras (Ramanuja)
(1) The awareness of one's own self expressed through the understanding 'I know.'[21] (2) The ongoing stream of awareness that exists even during sleep, represented by the non-distinct 'I'.[22]
From: Prasthanatrayi Swaminarayan Bhashyam (Study)
(1) The significant awareness of the self, forming the indispensable base of all perception.[23]
From: Mandukya Upanishad (Gaudapa Karika and Shankara Bhashya)
(1) The awareness or recognition of one's true nature as Turiya, distinct from transient states of consciousness.[24]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad
(1) The aspect of the Self that is aware of itself, as distinguished from the cognitive processes of the mind.[25]
From: Chandogya Upanishad (english Translation)
(1) The recognition of one's true nature as the Self, independent of the challenges associated with the body and mind.[26]
From: The Sarva-Darsana-Samgraha
(1) Awareness of oneself as a distinct entity, discussed in the context of body and soul relations in Carvaka philosophy.[27] (2) Also referred to as egoism, it represents a conscious awareness of oneself and existence within the framework of Sankhya philosophy.[28]
From: Sri Krishna-Chaitanya
(1) The innate awareness of one's spirit that distinguishes humans from mere material entities.[29]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) The awareness of one's own identity and existence, which arises as a function of the Principle of Egoism.[30]
From: Shakti and Shakta
(1) Self-consciousness refers to the concrete and conditioned awareness that generally characterizes higher forms of evolution.[31]
From: Sushruta Samhita, volume 3: Sharirasthana
(1) The state of being aware of oneself as a distinct and individual entity, marking the Purusha's role in the universality of existence.[32]
From: Vakyapadiya (study of the concept of Sentence)
(1) Described as all consciousness, it relates to Pratibha as it enables comprehensive understanding all at once.[33]
From: Yoga-sutras (Ancient and Modern Interpretations)
(1) The ultimate understanding and realization of one's true nature, which can be attained by overcoming avidya.[34]
The concept of Self-consciousness in local and regional sources
Self-consciousness encompasses an individual's awareness of themselves as part of divinity, their ego analysis, the pursuit of Ultimate Reality, personal identity, and social context, influencing both spiritual devotion and societal engagement.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) Fichte's concept that emphasizes the idea of the ego as the true reality, underlying all components of existence and consciousness.[35] (2) Heightened awareness of one’s own beliefs and motivations, affecting the creation and perception of modern poetry.[36] (3) The awareness of the author's own emotions and perspectives that contributes to the creation of subjective literature.[37] (4) The awareness of one's own character and existence, which is a central theme in Anita Desai’s novels, particularly highlighting the internal struggles of her protagonists.[38] (5) A state absent in the villagers as they crossed water, contributing to their sense of well-being.[39]
From: Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints
(1) Kabir transcended his awareness of self and social recognition as he immersed himself in the song of praise for Ram.[40] (2) Awareness of oneself, which is lost in the fervor of spiritual devotion or distress, as described in the context of their cries for help.[41] (3) A state of awareness and reflection on oneself that Kabir loses while worshiping Ram.[42] (4) The awareness of oneself that Gora momentarily loses while in deep contemplation of God.[43] (5) Kabir's awareness of himself and his surroundings, which would awaken him from his trance-like state of worship.[44]
From: Self-Knowledge in Krishnamurti’s Philosophy
(1) Awareness of oneself as an individual, accompanied by the fear of self-extinction according to Krishnamurti.[45]
The concept of Self-consciousness in scientific sources
Self-consciousness involves recognizing one's mental states and emotions, influenced by personality traits. This awareness can shape behavior and interactions, informing how individuals perceive themselves and their impact on others.
From: The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences
(1) The awareness of one's own mental states, emotions, perceptions, and attitudes, which varies according to personality traits.[46]