Significance of Tradition
Tradition, as described across various philosophical and cultural frameworks, encompasses the transmission of knowledge, practices, and beliefs through generations. In Tibetan Buddhism, Tradition is a means of cognition and a repository of knowledge not derived from direct experience. Purana emphasizes cultural practices and historical narratives, while Vyakarana and Vedanta highlight the clarity and spiritual guidance found in established beliefs. Other perspectives, including Dharmashastra and Mahayana, focus on customs shaping societal norms and oral teachings. Across all interpretations, Tradition plays a vital role in preserving culture and guiding conduct.
Synonyms: Custom, Practice, Heritage, Ritual, Convention, Belief, Culture, Legacy, Folklore, Habit
In Dutch: Traditie
In Finnish: Perinne
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Tradition'
In Buddhism, Tradition encompasses knowledge and beliefs handed down through generations, often lacking direct experience, as well as oral teachings and customs that reflect the encounters of the Exalted One and maintain cultural continuity.
From: Mahavamsa
(1) The customs the king protected, although he was unaware of the peerless virtues of the three gems.[1]
From: Vinaya (3): The Cullavagga
(1) The practices and teachings that have been passed down through generations, particularly in the context of Buddhism.[2]
From: Vinaya Pitaka (3): Khandhaka
(1) The teachings and practices passed down among monks, which the certain monk was knowledgeable about.[3]
From: Tattvasangraha [with commentary]
(1) A Means or Form of Cognition whose origin is unclear but has been maintained through continuous assertion over time.[4] (2) Knowledge or beliefs that are passed down through generations, typically not derived from direct experience.[5]
From: Mahavastu (great story)
(1) The oral teaching and stories passed down that recount the encounters and experiences of the Exalted One.[6]
Hindu concept of 'Tradition'
In Hinduism, Tradition encompasses a wide range of practices, including ancestor offerings, spiritual guidance from Gurus, cultural customs, and historical narratives, all of which shape societal norms and individual conduct across generations.
From: Ramayana of Valmiki
(1) Refers to established practices and customs that dictate proper conduct, particularly in relation to kingship and morality.[7] (2) The customs and practices that the sacrifice adhered to, ensuring it honored established norms.[8] (3) Cultural practices involving offering water to ancestors, as observed by the sages at the holy Ganges.[9]
From: Agni Purana
(1) The historical context or established norms that have led to the classification of the ganas.[10]
From: Matsya Purana (critical study)
(1) The passing down of historical narratives and genealogical records that become a critical resource in the absence of formal historical works.[11]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) A practice or set of customs that are handed down through generations, often representing a succession of beliefs and cultural norms.[12] (2) The long-established customs and beliefs that influence marital restrictions and societal norms.[13]
From: Kavyamimamsa of Rajasekhara (Study)
(1) The established practices and customs in poetry that shape the concept of kavisamaya, as observed by poets over generations.[14] (2) Cultural and literary customs that sanction certain practices in poetry, as noted by Rajashekhara in relation to kavisamaya.[15]
From: Vakyapadiya of Bhartrihari
(1) Knowledge or practices that are passed down between individuals or generations, which can be communicated clearly.[16] (2) An established practice or set of beliefs regarding the existence and manifestation of universals.[17]
From: Prasthanatrayi Swaminarayan Bhashyam (Study)
(1) Tradition refers to the established norms, practices, and teachings that guide the spiritual conduct of individuals within the Svaminarayana framework, emphasizing the importance of confiding in the Guru.[18]
The concept of Tradition in local and regional sources
Tradition encompasses longstanding beliefs and historical narratives that shape cultural identity and practices, particularly in South Indian communities, influencing the lives of figures like Saints Andal and Perialwar through oral histories and established customs.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) Common beliefs and assertions about the authorship and antiquity of texts; often referred to in a skeptical light regarding exaggeration.[19] (2) Cultural practices and oral histories that document the commercial activities and exchanges of South Indian communities.[20] (3) The longstanding beliefs and historical narratives passed down, providing context to the lives and works of Saints like Andal and Perialwar.[21] (4) A repository of historical and cultural practices and beliefs that persists through time, simultaneously reflecting and shaping human experience.[22]
From: Self-Knowledge in Krishnamurti’s Philosophy
(1) Tradition refers to the established customs, beliefs, and practices passed down through generations that often dictate people's minds and behaviors.[23]