Significance of Sight

In Vaishnavism, Sight encompasses multiple dimensions, primarily focusing on the act of seeing as a significant spiritual practice. It involves the perception of Krishna, emphasizing spiritual vision that leads to liberation. The concept also highlights the divine experience, referred to as Darshanam, illustrating the importance of witnessing the divine form of the Lord. In contrast, Dharmashastra associates Sight with moral perception, especially regarding purity and the avoidance of impurity in interactions.1

Synonyms: Vision, Eyesight, View, Seeing, Perception, Glance, Observation, Spectacle, Glance., Look

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

Hindu concept of 'Sight'

Hinduism Books

In Hinduism, Sight encompasses witnessing spiritual truths, gaining divine perception, and experiencing darshanam. It signifies the importance of spiritual vision, particularly in relation to Krishna and avoiding impurity for spiritual liberation.

Significance of Sight in Vaishnavism (Vaishava dharma):

Vaishnavism Books

From: Garga Samhita (English)

(1) Darshanam; the visual perception or experience of the divine form of the Lord.^[1] (2) The act of seeing or perceiving an entity or a divine presence.^[2] (3) Referring to the perceived presence or vision of the speaker in Radha's mind.^[3] (4) The act of seeing or gazing, particularly regarding the gopis looking upon Lord Krishna.^[4] (5) The act of seeing or perceiving, particularly in a spiritual or divine context.^[5]

From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)

(1) The visual presence or appearance of the Lord, which is significant for His devotees.^[6] (2) darshanatah–from the sight; pertains to the experience of seeing the Lord, which affords various types of mercy.^[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’).

Significance of Sight in Dharmashastra (religious law):

Dharmashastra Books

From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi

(1) A perceptual quality that flourishes in a man if he avoids the woman covered with impurity.^[8]

Dharmashastra contains the instructions (shastra) regarding religious conduct of livelihood (dharma), ceremonies, jurisprudence (study of law) and more. It is categorized as smriti, an important and authoritative selection of books dealing with the Hindu lifestyle.

Last Updated: 30 October, 2024