Significance of True Knowledge
True Knowledge, as defined across various philosophical and spiritual traditions, encompasses a profound understanding that transcends superficial awareness and leads to spiritual enlightenment. It includes insights about the nature of existence, the relationship between the self and the divine, and the path to liberation from ignorance. True Knowledge is gained through dedicated practices, moral conduct, and discernment, enabling individuals to discern reality from illusion. This wisdom is pivotal for attaining spiritual clarity and understanding the essence of reality, guiding one towards ultimate liberation.
Synonyms: True understanding, Accurate knowledge, Wisdom, Understanding, Insight, Enlightenment, Awareness
In Dutch: Echte kennis; In Finnish: Todellinen Tieto; In Spanish: Conocimiento verdadero
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'True Knowledge'
True Knowledge in Buddhism encompasses accurate understanding derived from sacred texts, leading to liberation through clarity between Matter and Spirit, profound insights into existence, and essential guidance for aiding others in achieving enlightenment.
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) An enlightened understanding that allows one to see reality clearly, as opposed to ignorance.[1] (2) True knowledge (bhutajnana) is the understanding necessary for the bodhisattva to endure suffering and help others achieve enlightenment.[2] (3) The singular understanding that emerges when the various forms of knowledge coalesce into one definitive realization.[3] (4) Dhyanas and samapattis serve as gateways to true knowledge and wisdom, illuminating the path for practitioners.[4] (5) An accurate and profound understanding of reality, gained through moral practice and mental clarity.[5]
From: Buddhacarita
(1) Understanding that provides final certitude and is seen as essential for real liberation.[6] (2) The profound understanding that allows one to see reality as it is, free from delusion.[7]
From: Mahayana Mahaparinirvana Sutra
(1) The realization of enlightenment concerning the ultimate nature of existence, overcoming ignorance, and understanding the essence of reality.[8]
From: Mahavastu (great story)
(1) Profound understanding of the world and beyond, exemplified by the sage Sharabhanga who answers questions about morality and character.[9]
From: Tattvasangraha [with commentary]
(1) An understanding that is accurate and dependable, which the text argues cannot be derived solely from the Veda.[10] (2) This concept is referred to as ‘Pramana’ or ‘Right Cognition’, emphasizing the importance of knowledge that leads to an accurate understanding of reality.[11] (3) Understanding that leads to the cessation of ignorance and attachment, resulting in the purity of the mind and liberation.[12] (4) An understanding or awareness that is unhindered and comprehensive, applicable to all that can be known.[13] (5) The understanding endowed to the teacher which aligns with the truth as opposed to false doctrines.[14]
From: Dhammapada (translated from the Pali)
(1) A deep understanding or insight, exemplified by the soul of a person deserving of homage.[15] (2) An enlightening understanding leading to emancipation and protection from Mara's temptations.[16]
From: Vinaya Pitaka (1): Bhikkhu-vibhanga (the analysis of Monks’ rules)
(1) True knowledges refer to the three aspects of comprehension or insight that provide a deeper understanding of one's self and the path.[17]
From: Abhidhamma in Daily Life (by Ashin Janakabhivamsa)
(1) Knowledge that genuinely supports understanding as opposed to false knowledge.[18]
Hindu concept of 'True Knowledge'
True Knowledge in Hinduism encompasses the profound understanding of the self's unity with Brahman, transcending dualities and worldly distractions, leading to liberation and enlightenment by recognizing spiritual realities beyond sensory perceptions and profound scholarly insights into the divine.
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) Understanding that transcends false notions and conceptual errors, leading to liberation and clarity of perception.[19] (2) The certain understanding of everything achieved through discrimination, free from doubt.[20] (3) An understanding of existence that reveals the underlying unity of all things and diminishes the perception of multiplicity.[21] (4) The ultimate understanding and enlightenment attained by Suchi through her continuous devotion.[22] (5) The comprehension of spiritual realities that transcend sensory perceptions, often linked with the understanding of the self and the divine.[23]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) An understanding derived from spiritual teachings and scriptures that leads to enlightenment and salvation.[24] (2) An understanding that leads to liberation and is regarded as superior to general knowledge, important for acquiring true happiness.[25] (3) A deep understanding of spiritual truths and principles that guide one's conduct and decision-making.[26] (4) Understanding that allows one to suppress sorrow and focus on the highest good.[27] (5) Realization and understanding of the divine essence and true nature of existence, which Markandeya seeks.[28]
From: Shiva Purana
(1) Refers to the deeper understanding and wisdom that Brahma has momentarily forgotten.[29] (2) The understanding of spiritual truths and self-realization that transcends illusion and arrogance.[30] (3) The state of having genuine understanding and insight, sought through the story of Shiva and Shiva.[31] (4) An enlightened understanding that transcends conventional teachings and societal rules.[32] (5) The understanding that Shiva suggests is lacking among celestial sages attending Daksha’s sacrifice.[33]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) Knowledge that leads to liberation and understanding, in contrast to mere intellectual grasp; associated with good behavior and selflessness.[34] (2) Realization and understanding of the ultimate truths of existence, which surpasses intellectual learning and leads to spiritual liberation.[35] (3) The spiritual understanding that frees one from the bonds of wealth and attachment.[36] (4) The understanding or realization of deeper spiritual truths, referred to as Tattvajnanam.[37]
From: Vishnu Purana
(1) The essence that Brahma embodies, which encompasses comprehensive understanding and wisdom.[38] (2) Understanding that reflects the unity and essential nature of all existence.[39] (3) The ultimate understanding and wisdom associated with Vishnu.[40] (4) An understanding granted to Devaki and Vasudeva that comes from contemplating Krishna's actions.[41]
From: Padma Purana
(1) The understanding of the essence of reality and spiritual principles as held by those well-versed in metaphysical knowledge.[42] (2) An understanding of the Vedas and sacred texts that Rama claims to have possessed.[43] (3) Authentic understanding that arises from spiritual realization and study of sacred scriptures.[44]
From: Bhagavata Purana
(1) The recognition that all beings are interconnected and that ultimately there is only one reality (Para-Brahman).[45] (2) Understanding that transcends intellectual grasp and connects one with the ultimate reality of the self and the universe.[46] (3) Understanding that reveals the essence of life and reality, guiding individuals towards enlightenment.[47]
From: Skanda Purana
(1) The enlightenment received by sages after Brahma consoled them, emphasizing the importance of spiritual wisdom.[48] (2) The understanding that the sages and Brahma lost due to their delusion and false statements.[49] (3) Represents the profound understanding and enlightenment achieved by the sage Shandilya.[50]
From: Agni Purana
(1) Understanding that leads to the realization of Lord Vishnu as the supreme entity.[51] (2) Understanding the stages of life, from embryo to old age, which is noted as valuable for men according to Gangavishnu.[52] (3) Understanding that precedes the act of abstaining from worldly actions, emphasizing wisdom.[53]
From: Garuda Purana
(1) Understanding that is accurate and well-rounded, recognizing the limitations and relativity of individual knowledge.[54] (2) A profound understanding that allows a wise person to rise above life's concerns and seek spiritual enlightenment.[55] (3) A type of understanding that encompasses and recognizes Govinda as the ultimate truth.[56]
From: Harivamsha Purana
(1) The understanding endowed to celestial beings like Angira for overcoming sensory distractions.[57] (2) The profound understanding or wisdom imparted through spiritual teachings, particularly in religious contexts.[58]
From: Brihaddharma Purana (abridged)
(1) The understanding that one must achieve to break free from the cycle of actions and their results.[59] (2) A state of understanding that will be rare among people in Kali Yuga.[60]
From: Sanatsujatiya (English translation)
(1) The understanding of the supreme self emphasized in the Sanatsujatiya, contrasting with mere ritual practices.[61]
From: Markandeya Purana
(1) The essential understanding required to skillfully conduct voluntary shraddhas at the right times.[62]
From: Laghu-yoga-vasistha
(1) The understanding attained through wisdom and discrimination, guiding one towards liberation.[63]
From: Brahma Sutras (Ramanuja)
(1) An accurate understanding of Brahman that allows an individual to transcend the effects of their past actions.[64] (2) An essential quality of Brahman that signifies absolute understanding beyond the material realm.[65] (3) A characteristic of Brahman that denotes its ultimate reality and understanding.[66] (4) A description of Brahman that emphasizes its ultimate reality and the embodiment of pure knowledge, suggesting that understanding these concepts is crucial to grasping the essence of Brahman.[67] (5) Knowledge that dispels false imaginations and leads to the understanding of reality, particularly in the context of Brahman.[68]
From: Prasthanatrayi Swaminarayan Bhashyam (Study)
(1) Knowledge that is considered valid and accurate, achieved through the appropriate means of cognition, rather than through uncertain or misleading methods.[69] (2) Knowledge that accurately represents the substances and realities one wishes to understand.[70] (3) Understanding of the self and the eternal nature of the jiva, which is obscured by ignorance.[71] (4) The essential understanding of Parabrahman and Aksharabrahman that an aspirant must attain to realize ultimate spiritual truths.[72] (5) Knowledge that transcends reason and empirical evidence, accessing deeper spiritual realities.[73]
From: Mandukya Upanishad (Gaudapa Karika and Shankara Bhashya)
(1) A state of understanding that recognizes the illusory nature of both dream experiences and waking experiences, distinguishing them from genuine reality.[74] (2) An understanding that emerges from recognizing the illusion in the belief of cause and effect, leading to liberation.[75] (3) It is the understanding that arises from the realization of the non-duality of existence, free from biases.[76] (4) A state of understanding that arises when duality ceases to exist, as stated by wise individuals, leading to the realization of the oneness of the Atman.[77] (5) Understanding that arises from the mind's direct contact with real, existent objects, serving as a reference point in discerning reality.[78]
From: Chandogya Upanishad (Shankara Bhashya)
(1) Understanding the essence of being that transcends the material world and false perceptions.[79] (2) Understanding that leads to liberation and the realization of one's true Self, transcending worldly attachments.[80] (3) Understanding of the secondless Self, which grants liberation from the cycle of birth and rebirth, central to Upanishadic philosophy.[81] (4) The realization of the Self’s unbodied nature, leading to the freedom from pleasure and pain.[82]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad Bhashya Vartika
(1) Knowledge that aligns with the Self, contrasting with ignorance represented by avidya.[83] (2) An understanding that transcends ordinary perception, leading to the realization of one's oneness with Brahman.[84]
From: Ishavasya Upanishad with Shankara’s Commentary
(1) The ultimate understanding and realization of the self, which is sought after by the knower of Self.[85] (2) The understanding that leads to self-realization, requiring the abandonment of worldly desires.[86]
From: Mandukya Upanishad (Madhva commentary)
(1) The understanding or awareness of the divine truth, which contradicts the false notion of self and can lead to the cessation of prapanca.[87]
From: Brahma Sutras (Shankara Bhashya)
(1) Knowledge that relies on the thing itself, remaining consistent and uniform, unlike the variable conclusions produced by reasoning.[88]
From: Chandogya Upanishad (english Translation)
(1) A form of understanding that transcends mere collection of information, requiring assimilation and deep integration into one’s character.[89]
From: Tiruvaymoli (Thiruvaimozhi): English translation
(1) The understanding gained by the speaker regarding his essential nature and relationship with the Lord.[90] (2) Represents the understanding that arises when individuals recognize their essential nature, illuminating their misconceptions of possession.[91] (3) An understanding of the relationship between Man and God essential for spiritual liberation.[92] (4) The authentic understanding of God-head aimed to be propagated by the Lord through the hymns of the Alvar.[93] (5) Understanding that is deemed pure and authentic, particularly in relation to spiritual enlightenment and devotion.[94]
From: Sri Krishna-Chaitanya
(1) The understanding of one's relationship to the divine that transcends mundane existence.[95] (2) Described as understanding that serving the Supreme Lord is the essence of genuine scholarship.[96] (3) An understanding that transcends ordinary knowledge, focusing instead on spiritual and eternal truths.[97]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) the understanding gained when one becomes aware of the four things in the heart[98]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) Understanding that persists despite ignorance and shines forth upon the removal of delusion.[99] (2) An understanding that leads to a deeper comprehension of the Supreme Self, crucial for fulfilling one's duty.[100] (3) The understanding that leads to spiritual enlightenment and liberation from the cycle of attachment and suffering.[101] (4) Understanding and insights that are clear, accurate, and devoid of doubt or misleading interpretations.[102] (5) Understanding or wisdom that transcends superficial or sensory experiences, often considered superior to sensual enjoyment.[103]
From: Baudhayana Dharmasutra
(1) The ultimate understanding or insight attained through dedicated spiritual practice and study.[104]
From: Vasistha Dharmasutra
(1) The enlightenment or wisdom that is attained through the dedicated practice of Yoga, transcending mere intellectual understanding.[105]
From: Yoga-sutras (Ancient and Modern Interpretations)
(1) The state of understanding that encompasses both intellectual and experiential insights into existence.[106] (2) True knowledge is antagonistic to nescience and destroys harmful latent impressions.[107] (3) The understanding necessary for purusha to realize its distinction from prakriti and attain liberation.[108] (4) A philosophical inquiry into understanding the nature of reality and existence, as pondered by human minds.[109] (5) Knowledge that helps diminish afflictive samskaras, resulting in a less productive state, akin to a parched seed.[110]
From: Yoga-sutras (with Bhoja’s Rajamartanda)
(1) The kind of understanding that leads to emancipation, as alluded to in the text, contrasting with incomplete or superficial awareness.[111]
From: Padarthadharmasamgraha and Nyayakandali
(1) A state of understanding that transcends mere beliefs and desires, leading to awareness of reality beyond external objects and experiences.[112] (2) An understanding that leads to the removal of ignorance, characterized by profound insights into the nature of self and reality.[113]
From: Manasara (English translation)
(1) Understanding or insight about God that is essential for reaching the Sayujya state.[114]
From: Hitopadesha (English translation)
(1) The wisdom accumulated through discernment between good and ill, as illustrated by the character's reflections on their past choices.[115]
From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)
(1) An understanding of the atman and the nature of reality that dispels illusions, akin to recognizing a rope instead of a snake.[116]
From: Lakulisha-Pashupata (Philosophy and Practice)
(1) Knowledge purportedly possessed by the Pasupata aspirant, in contrast to those following Samkhya and Yoga who are considered misled.[117]
From: Vakyapadiya of Bhartrihari
(1) The state of understanding (vidya) that transcends the influence of Time and avidya, leading to the realization of oneness.[118]
Jain concept of 'True Knowledge'
In Jainism, True Knowledge embodies deep insight into existence's nature, facilitates renunciation and avoidance of sin, discerns reality from illusion, fosters awareness of actions and their consequences, and stems from pure past-life practices, crucial for enlightenment.
From: Uttaradhyayana Sutra
(1) Deep understanding that arises from pure religious practices in past lives, essential for realizing the nature of existence and enlightenment.[119] (2) Understanding that enables one to avoid ignorance and delusion, leading to final deliverance.[120]
From: Acaranga-sutra
(1) An understanding that encompasses awareness of one's actions and their consequences, leading to right conduct and avoidance of sinful behavior.[121] (2) This refers to the understanding and renunciation required to avoid sinful acts and attain wisdom in living.[122]
From: Sutrakritanga (English translation)
(1) An understanding that goes beyond superficial information, encompassing deep insight and wisdom regarding the nature of existence and the Law.[123]
From: Tattvartha Sutra (with commentary)
(1) A correct understanding of reality based on proper discernment and differentiation between the real and the unreal.[124]
The concept of True Knowledge in local and regional sources
True Knowledge encompasses deep spiritual understanding, guiding individuals toward enlightenment and growth. It transcends basic awareness, emphasizes wisdom from spiritual truths, and reflects the insights of figures like the Buddha and Dnyaneshwar in their teachings.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) An understanding attained through meditation and the study of self-awareness, as indicated in the Yoga Vasishta.[125] (2) The wisdom Thoreau believes one achieves through experiences that transcend formal instruction.[126] (3) True knowledge is the deeper understanding that transcends the basic levels of awareness and is associated with freedom.[127] (4) A state of understanding regarded highly in 'Dhamma Padam,' emphasizing wisdom that guides individuals toward spiritual growth.[128] (5) Knowledge that comes from spiritual understanding and identity with the ultimate reality, leading to lasting wisdom and enlightenment.[129]
From: Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints
(1) A profound understanding and insight into spiritual truths that Dnyaneshwar sought to convey through his works.[130]
The concept of True Knowledge in scientific sources
True Knowledge signifies an accurate understanding gained through thorough study, utilizing pramanas (valid means of knowledge) and comparisons to deepen comprehension, as reported by regional sources.
From: International Ayurvedic Medical Journal
(1) Accurate understanding derived from comprehensive study and the application of pramanas and comparisons.[131]