Significance of Six superknowledges
The Six superknowledges, or abhijna, are a set of extraordinary spiritual insights and abilities attained by advanced practitioners in Buddhism, particularly by bodhisattvas and arhats. These capabilities include advanced perceptions such as telepathy, clairvoyance, and the ability to recall past lives. The superknowledges allow practitioners to understand deeper truths about existence and reality, transcending ordinary sensory experiences. Furthermore, these insights are retained over lifetimes, facilitating profound understanding and realizations through rigorous spiritual practice.
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Six superknowledges'
The Six superknowledges (abhijna) in Buddhism encompass advanced spiritual insights and abilities such as clairvoyance and telepathy, enabling practitioners to perceive deeper truths about existence and reality through rigorous practice and enlightenment.
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) Advanced spiritual insights possessed by the abbot, who recognizes the bear's true identity as a bodhisattva.[1] (2) The six superknowledges (abhijna) are extraordinary abilities attained by advanced practitioners, including clairvoyance, mind reading, and the power to recall past lives.[2] (3) Advanced forms of knowledge and abilities that a pratyekabuddha possesses, enabling profound insights and realizations.[3] (4) Refers to a set of advanced spiritual insights and powers attained by the bhikshuni.[4] (5) The six advanced forms of knowledge (abhijna) that the bodhisattva does not lose over lifetimes, allowing for a deeper understanding.[5]
From: Mahavastu (great story)
(1) Extraordinary capabilities that arise from enlightenment, which include divine sight and the ability to know the thoughts of others.[6]