Significance of True wisdom
True wisdom in various philosophical and spiritual traditions signifies a profound understanding that transcends superficial knowledge and material desires. In Buddhism, it encompasses enlightenment that aids personal and collective liberation. Jainism associates true wisdom with self-respect beyond begging, while the Arthashastra emphasizes the importance of inner qualities. The Purana highlights spiritual insight and humility, insisting genuine knowledge leads to liberation. Mahayana Buddhism identifies true wisdom as understanding the true nature of reality, crucial for benefiting sentient beings, while Theravada emphasizes discerning true knowledge regarding actions and results.
Synonyms: Deep understanding, Profound insight, Genuine knowledge, Sagacity, Enlightenment, Perceptive judgment, Sound judgment, Enlightenment., Insight, Understanding, Discernment
In Dutch: Ware wijsheid; In Finnish: Todellinen viisaus; In Spanish: Sabiduría verdadera
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 wisdom'
True wisdom in Buddhism is an advanced understanding that transcends mere knowledge, enables personal and others' liberation, recognizes one's ignorance, and arises through deep contemplation and practice, leading to profound insights essential for enlightenment and benevolence.
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) The understanding of the true nature of dharmas, which is not obscured by ignorance.[1] (2) A form of knowledge or understanding that transcends conventional grasp and is likened to an intangible quality.[2] (3) True wisdom comes from concentration of the mind (cittagrya) and meditation (dhyana).[3] (4) A form of knowledge (bhutaprajna) that encompasses the understanding and insights gained through the practice of right action and livelihood.[4] (5) Profound understanding that transcends superficial knowledge, leading to enlightenment.[5]
From: Lotus Sutra
(1) The ultimate understanding and enlightenment that one aspires to achieve, beyond mere knowledge.[6]
From: The Perfection Of Wisdom In Eight Thousand Lines
(1) The highest form of understanding, characterized by realization beyond mere intellectual knowledge, essential for the bodhisattva.[7]
From: Bodhinyana
(1) True wisdom is the understanding that frees us from worldly attachments and leads to peace.[8] (2) The understanding that arises when one contemplates the world clearly.[9] (3) An enlightened understanding that arises when one can see beyond immediate desires and sensations, comprehending deeper truths.[10]
From: The Great Chariot
(1) The understanding that encompasses both personal liberation and the liberation of others, a key aspect of the bodhisattva's path.[11]
From: The Fo-Sho-Hing-Tsan-King (A Life of Buddha)
(1) A profound understanding that guides actions toward benevolence.[12]
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) The recognition of one's own foolishness which distinguishes a wise person from a fool.[13]
From: Abhidhamma in Daily Life (by Ashin Janakabhivamsa)
(1) True wisdom encompasses real knowledge and understanding related to actions, results, scriptures, the Dhamma, and insight.[14]
Hindu concept of 'True wisdom'
True wisdom in Hinduism encompasses deep spiritual understanding of Brahman, ethical principles, humility, and the mastery of desires, leading to liberation and enlightenment through study, community, and the realization of ultimate truths.
From: Vishnu Purana
(1) Deep understanding that transcends mere knowledge and is rooted in spiritual insight.[15] (2) The understanding gained through investigation of worldly pain, leading to detachment from human desires.[16] (3) The knowledge that leads to liberation and the realization of the supreme truth as articulated by Prahlada.[17] (4) The profound understanding and knowledge communicated by Ribhu to Nidagha, considered essential in spiritual teachings.[18] (5) The genuine knowledge that Prahlada advocates as essential over the superficial skills of political maneuvering.[19]
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) Genuine understanding of spiritual truths that leads to enlightenment and liberation from physical and mental constraints.[20] (2) An understanding that can only be achieved through serious study and thoughtful discussion within a virtuous community.[21] (3) Genuine understanding and application of knowledge, as opposed to merely showing or pretending to possess it.[22] (4) A state of understanding that arises from the extinction of mental affections, revealing the pure essence of the mind.[23] (5) An insightful understanding that dispels ignorance and liberates one from the desires of the world.[24]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) The understanding and knowledge that come from controlling one's senses and practicing spiritual discipline.[25] (2) Understanding that aligns with ethical and spiritual principles.[26]
From: Skanda Purana
(1) The knowledge and understanding that comes from the teachings of the Vedas, considered superior.[27]
From: Thirty minor Upanishads
(1) Understanding that comes from controlling desires and realizing the nature of Atma.[28]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad
(1) The authentic understanding of spiritual matters, specifically, the nature of Brahman, leading to liberation.[29]
From: Shiva Gita (study and summary)
(1) The realization that dawns upon Rama as he reflects on the cosmic vision and praises Lord Shiva with Vedic hymns, understanding the nature of reality and Maya.[30]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) The profound knowledge and understanding of truth that is essential for a steady mind.[31]
From: Hitopadesha (English translation)
(1) The idea that physical attributes alone are not sufficient; inner qualities are also recognized, as highlighted by Lávanyavati's wisdom.[32]
Jain concept of 'True wisdom'
In Jainism, True wisdom is the profound understanding that steers individuals away from the allure of begging, promoting self-respect and guiding them towards a more dignified and self-reliant existence.
The concept of True wisdom in local and regional sources
True wisdom encompasses insightful judgment for effective governance and an aspiration for genuine understanding of life and the world, guiding leaders to improve society through informed, thoughtful decision-making.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) An aspiration to attain genuine understanding and insight about life and the world.[34] (2) The insightful judgment that should guide leaders in governance for the betterment of society.[35]