Significance of Similarity
Synonyms: Resemblance, Likeness, Relation, Correspondence, Analogy, Sameness, Parallelism
In Dutch: Gelijkenis; In German: Ähnlichkeit; In Finnish: Samankaltaisuus; In Spanish: Semejanza
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Similarity'
In Buddhism, "Similarity" highlights shared characteristics among entities for commonality, perceived resemblances, and the concept of 'upama' for drawing parallels, emphasizing connections between names and their referents, guided by principles from Vindhyavasin.
From: Tattvasangraha [with commentary]
(1) A perceived resemblance that occurs between the perceptions of the gavaya and the cow, but is not an independent entity itself.[1] (2) A definition proposed by Vindhyavasin, suggesting that 'shabda' consists of a concept of similarity.[2] (3) A key concept referring to the shared characteristics among entities that can be used to establish commonalty.[3] (4) Referring to ‘upama’, the concept that seeks to draw parallels or comparisons, particularly in discussing the relationship between the eye and cognition.[4] (5) A characteristic often assumed to create connection between names and their referents, though not the only means of establishing such connections.[5]
Hindu concept of 'Similarity'
Similarity in Hinduism encompasses the common attributes and likeness between different entities, expressed through similes and metaphors, notably in the context of Radha and Krishna, highlighting the nuances of perception and understanding.
From: Sahitya-kaumudi by Baladeva Vidyabhushana
(1) The essence of a simile, which expresses the resemblance between the qualities, actions, or meanings of different entities as described in the text.[6] (2) Similarity pertains to the characteristics that two different entities share, which can lead to misperceptions when one is mistaken for the other.[7] (3) The basis on which the sandeha ornament must be formed, highlighting that the doubt is not arbitrary.[8] (4) The quality of being alike or resembling, particularly in the context of the elements representing Radha and Krishna and their surroundings.[9]
From: Agni Purana
(1) The presence of common attributes between different entities; expressed in various forms including simile and metaphor.[10] (2) Conveyed by evam.[11]
From: Padarthadharmasamgraha and Nyayakandali
(1) Similarity refers to common properties shared by two objects, which can cause confusion if distinctive features are not perceived.[12]
From: Vishnudharmottara Purana (Art and Architecture)
(1) The aspect of replicating likenesses in Painting, especially in facial features and expressions.[13]
Jain concept of 'Similarity'
In Jainism, Similarity serves as a foundational principle for knowledge acquisition, allowing individuals to draw inferences by comparing and relating one entity to another that shares common characteristics.
From: Bhagavati-sutra (Viyaha-pannatti)
(1) A basis for inference where knowledge is derived from comparing one thing to another similar thing.[14]