Significance of Sense-control
Sense-control is a concept that encompasses the ability to regulate sensory perceptions and desires for spiritual growth and discipline. In the Purana, it signifies achieving higher awareness and peace, as exemplified by Lord Shiva's deep meditation. Dharmashastra emphasizes its importance for rulers in managing impulses to make sound decisions. Similarly, Theravada views sense-control as crucial for cultivating the qualities essential for effective leadership. Overall, sense-control is vital for personal and spiritual development across various philosophical traditions.
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Sense-control'
Sense-control in Buddhism indicates the mastery over one’s senses, fostering essential qualities for effective leadership. This discipline aids individuals in achieving clarity and wisdom, essential traits for guiding others with compassion and insight.
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) The ability to govern one's senses, leading to the qualities needed for true leadership or rulership.[1]
From: Apadana commentary (Atthakatha)
(1) The moral precept that involves guarding against sensory distractions and maintaining focus on spiritual growth.[2]
Hindu concept of 'Sense-control'
Sense-control in Hinduism signifies regulating desires and impulses to attain spiritual discipline, heightened awareness, and inner peace, exemplified by Lord Shiva's deep meditation, emphasizing its pivotal role in leadership and personal growth.
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) The ability to restrain one's sensory perceptions and desires to achieve a higher state of awareness and peace.[3]
From: Shiva Purana
(1) A state in which Lord Shiva was in deep meditation, unimpressed by any external charms.[4]
From: Padma Purana
(1) The ability to regulate one's desires and impulses, an important aspect of spiritual discipline.[5]
From: Markandeya Purana (Study)
(1) Pratyahara, the practice of withdrawing the senses from external objects to focus inward and achieve better concentration.[6]
From: Linga Purana
(1) Sense control is the mastery over sensory organs to prevent false or improper functioning, irrespective of external stimuli.[7]
From: Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu
(1) Practices aimed at regulating one's desires and sensory experiences to achieve spiritual discipline.[8] (2) Austerity that involves regulating one's desires and senses, noted as a desirable quality for serving the Lord.[9]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) The ability to manage and regulate the five senses, leading to better mental discipline and spiritual insight.[10]
From: Mundaka Upanishad with Shankara’s Commentary
(1) The practice of managing one's senses to redirect focus inwardly, facilitating deeper meditation and realization of Brahman.[11]
From: Mandukya Upanishad (Gaudapa Karika and Shankara Bhashya)
(1) The ability to restrain one's senses from external objects, which is attained naturally by those who realize Brahman.[12]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) The ability to regulate one's desires and impulses, crucial for a ruler's demeanor and decisions.[13]
From: Shaiva Upanishads (A Critical Study)
(1) The practice of mastering or regulating one's senses to achieve higher states of consciousness.[14]
The concept of Sense-control in local and regional sources
Sense-control refers to the regulation of sensory desires, particularly emphasized during fasting periods. It involves the ability to moderate and manage cravings, fostering discipline and self-control while adhering to specific dietary practices.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) The ability to restrain or regulate one's sensory desires, often the goal during periods of fasting.[15]