Significance of Truth
Truth in various spiritual traditions highlights the pursuit of ultimate reality and understanding. In Buddhism, it transcends physical concepts, offering profound insights into existence. Hinduism emphasizes a principle of righteousness, upheld by divine entities. Jainism focuses on adherence to core teachings without deception to achieve liberation. Other traditions like Vaishnavism and Vedanta convey truth as foundational to understanding existence and self-realization. Each religious perspective underlines truth as a virtue that guides ethical behavior and fosters spiritual growth, emphasizing its universal significance across cultures.
Synonyms: Veracity, Reality, Honesty, Accuracy, Authenticity, Certainty, Genuineness, Sincerity, Integrity, Actuality
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Truth'
In Buddhism, Truth encompasses essential teachings and moral insights shared by the Master, leading to spiritual realization and understanding of fundamental principles, especially regarding existence, impermanence, and the path to enlightenment.
From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) The moral lessons or insights that the Master declares at the end of the tale, emphasizing the teaching provided through the story's events.[1] (2) The fundamental teachings imparted by the Master that guided individuals toward realizing enlightenment and overcoming material attachments.[2] (3) The theme emphasized in the tale where the mother appeals to truth to prove her connection to the king.[3] (4) The ultimate lessons conveyed by the Master after the tale, leading to moral teachings and virtues.[4] (5) Underlying moral lessons revealed by the Master at the conclusion of the story, ultimately leading to insight and realization by the greedy Brother.[5]
From: Visuddhimagga (the pah of purification)
(1) Concepts held as valid regarding existence and self, sometimes mistakenly interpreted as permanent or singular.[6] (2) Another meaning of dhamma, reflecting its association with ultimate reality and correctness.[7] (3) Fundamental principles that convey essential aspects of existence and suffering within the Buddhist worldview.[8]
From: Vinaya (3): The Cullavagga
(1) Refers to profound insights about suffering, its origin, cessation, and the path presented by the Buddha.[9] (2) The principle of honesty and factuality that a Bhikkhu should uphold in his words and actions.[10]
From: Vinaya (2): The Mahavagga
(1) A certain understanding or realization that the four persons experienced that prompted them to seek ordination.[11] (2) The fundamental reality that the Buddha teaches, which leads to the understanding and cessation of suffering.[12]
From: Vinaya Pitaka (4): Parivara
(1) Conformity to fact or reality, essential for the one being reproved to uphold.[13]
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) The quality or state of being in accordance with fact or reality, which can be used to overcome falsehood.[14]
From: A Manual of Abhidhamma
(1) Denoted by sacca, it represents the fundamental realities that are central to Buddhist teaching.[15]
From: Vimalakirti Nirdesa Sutra
(1) The ultimate reality or principles in Buddhism that one strives to understand.[16] (2) The ultimate reality that one seeks to discern and uphold, especially in the context of the Dharma.[17]
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) Fundamental insights in Buddhist practice that facilitate the abandonment of certain defilements when seen clearly.[18] (2) The four fundamental truths that the faculties strive to understand and embody.[19]
From: Mahavastu (great story)
(1) The ultimate understanding or realization that the monks aspire to gain through the teachings of the Exalted One.[20]
From: Abhidharmakośa
(1) Fundamental realities that can lead to insight and understanding, helping to transcend the cycle of samsara.[21]
From: Tattvasangraha [with commentary]
(1) A fundamental reality that is described as eternal and limitless, presenting philosophical implications regarding existence.[22] (2) The ultimate reality or principle from which deviation leads to destruction.[23]
From: Guhyagarbha Tantra (with Commentary)
(1) The ultimate reality or principle that is revealed through the teachings of the Tathagatas.[24]
From: Bodhinyana
(1) The ultimate reality that transcends physical concepts and leads to a profound understanding of existence and non-existence.[25] (2) The ultimate reality of existence that one strives to understand through the teachings and practices of Buddhism.[26]
Hindu concept of 'Truth'
In Hinduism, Truth encompasses essential reality, the principle of honesty (Satya), ultimate existence, and integrity. It emphasizes sincerity, harmonizes with spiritual understanding, and is seen as a fundamental quality surpassing even great sacrifices in significance.
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) The ultimate reality or existence that transcends all forms and phenomena.[27] (2) The ultimate reality or principle, highly valued in the context of virtuous behaviour and moral conduct.[28] (3) Refers to Krishna's desire for openness and honesty in her communication with Bhima.[29] (4) The principle that Sivi upholds and insists upon, claiming it cannot be sacrificed for anything.[30] (5) Truth is presented as a vital component for kings and sages, inspiring confidence and bringing prosperity both in this life and the next.[31]
From: Skanda Purana
(1) An assertion reaffirming the claims made about the significance of Kashi as a place for attaining salvation.[32] (2) The ultimate reality or essence that Somesha embodies and represents.[33] (3) The assurance given by Shri Bhagavan regarding the Moon's future behavior as impartially treating all his wives.[34] (4) Narayana's identification with ultimate reality and truth.[35]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki
(1) The knowledge and reality concerning Sita’s abduction and whereabouts.[36] (2) Rama speaks of the reality surrounding his circumstances and his feelings towards his family.[37] (3) The principle that Shri Rama was wholly devoted to, which defined his character.[38] (4) The quality of being honest and free from falsehood, highlighted as a vital virtue.[39]
From: Agni Purana
(1) A pivotal concept in the narrative, wherein Kaikeyi insists on the king's adherence to the promises made to her.[40] (2) A foundational principle that aligns with the righteousness of Vishnu, believed to manifest in the eradication of evil.[41] (3) Indicated by yathartham and yathatatham.[42]
From: Bhagavata Purana
(1) The ultimate reality or essence that Ikshvaku sought to understand, leading to his establishment in Jnana-yoga.[43] (2) The ultimate reality that Bharata implied was attainable through self-realization and philosophical understanding.[44]
From: Padma Purana
(1) The absolute reality or fact, emphasized as being the entirety of what was conveyed.[45]
From: Sanatsujatiya (English translation)
(1) The ultimate principle upon which all worlds rest, crucial to achieving immortality and spiritual realization.[46]
From: Bhagavadgita
(1) The quality of being in accordance with fact or reality, recognized as a fundamental virtue.[47]
From: Shiva Purana
(1) A key concept emphasized by Narada, asserting the genuineness of his words and actions.[48]
From: Linga Purana
(1) The statement of facts presented exactly as they are observed.[49]
From: Bhagavad-gita-rahasya (or Karma-yoga Shastra)
(1) The concept that represents honesty and the correspondence of words and actions with reality.[50]
From: Brihaddharma Purana (abridged)
(1) A virtue that becomes increasingly rare in Kali Yuga, finding little room among people.[51]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) Concept regarded as supremely valuable and significant, outweighing even great sacrifices like the Ashvamedha.[52]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) The quality or state of being in accordance with fact or reality; something that has been stated as a fact without any falsehood.[53] (2) A concept of reality or sincerity; here, it refers to the speaker's assertion of ownership of the body.[54] (3) The concept or idea being communicated as factual and genuine.[55] (4) The state of being in accordance with fact or reality; in this context, it emphasizes the speaker's declaration of sincerity and conviction in their feelings.[56] (5) The quality or state of being in accordance with fact or reality; in this context, it refers to the honest answer being sought.[57]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) The accurate representation of facts or reality, which is being sought in the dialogue.[58] (2) In reference to 'satya', it represents the concept of truth.[59] (3) Truth encapsulates the concept of honesty and reality, contrasting with the notion of lying.[60] (4) An important concept in the text, connected to the expectations of statements made by characters.[61] (5) The essential elements or realities of the universe that manifested in the child’s mouth.[62]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) The ultimate reality or fact that is being conveyed, specifically related to the message of liberation.[63]
From: Chandogya Upanishad (english Translation)
(1) The fundamental reality of existence, equated with the Self, indicating the ultimate nature of being.[64] (2) Denotes the ultimate reality or principle that underlies all existence, equated with the Self.[65]
From: Chandogya Upanishad (Shankara Bhashya)
(1) The fundamental reality that the subtle essence represents, denoting the connection between all existence and the self.[66] (2) The virtue of honesty and integrity, emphasized as a crucial trait of the Brahmana-caste.[67]
From: Brihadaranyaka Upanishad
(1) Equated with the eye, regarded as the ultimate demonstration of reality, serving as a foundation for higher knowledge.[68] (2) The quality of being in accordance with fact or reality, particularly in the context of the elements and the universe.[69]
From: Prashna Upanishad with Shankara’s Commentary
(1) The quality of adhering to honesty and integrity, which is advocated as a principle that should be maintained without deviation.[70]
From: Kaivalya Upanishad
(1) The ultimate reality or fact that is recognized through the cultivation of wisdom and understanding.[71]
From: Vivekachudamani
(1) The ultimate reality or verity that Brahman embodies, transcending all forms of perception.[72]
From: Mandukya Upanishad (Gaudapa Karika and Shankara Bhashya)
(1) Truth is conceptualized as that which is obscured by non-apprehension, leading to misinterpretations of Reality, as illustrated by the example of mistaking a rope for a snake.[73]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) An essential aspect of virtue that forms its basis and is crucial for the performance of complete virtue.[74] (2) Conceptually, it signifies the essence of Vatsa's claim, the crux of the ordeal's validity.[75]
From: Satapatha-brahmana
(1) A fundamental principle upheld by the gods, considered essential for their unassailable glory and strength.[76] (2) The ultimate principle imparted by Uddalaka to Shauceya, meant to guide on the path of righteousness and accurate practice in rituals.[77]
From: Hitopadesha (English translation)
(1) The ultimate reality or fact, often contrasted with deception and fear in the dialogues.[78]
From: Shaiva Upanishads (A Critical Study)
(1) The unchanging reality that remains the same in all forms; it is what's absolute and does not differ from its cause.[79]
From: Yoga-sutras (Ancient and Modern Interpretations)
(1) Satya is the principle of speaking the truth; however, if the truth could potentially harm others, it is advisable to remain silent.[80]
Jain concept of 'Truth'
In Jainism, Truth embodies the ultimate reality essential for liberation from rebirth, representing core teachings that monks must honestly uphold, while contrasting with delusion and ignorance that hinder spiritual understanding.
From: Sutrakritanga (English translation)
(1) The core teachings and realities that a monk should adhere to and convey without deception.[81] (2) The ultimate reality that is to be understood and embraced for liberation from the cycle of rebirth.[82]
From: Uttaradhyayana Sutra
(1) An ultimate reality that monks seek to understand, contrasting with delusion and ignorance.[83]
The concept of Truth in local and regional sources
Truth encompasses principles guiding Congress's pursuit of freedom, individual awakening, poetic inspiration, direct understanding, adherence to reality, self-seeking of ultimate knowledge, veracity in behavior expected by Asoka, and the ideals upheld by Bhanudas.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) A fundamental quality that is central to genuine understanding and embodiment.[84] (2) A multifaceted concept where clarity is just one aspect, and complete understanding requires acknowledging complexity.[85] (3) The ultimate reality or understanding that individuals must seek on their own, without being led by others.[86] (4) The principle that is expected to guide the actions and decisions of the Congress in their pursuit of Indian freedom.[87] (5) The veracity and honesty advocated in the behaviors Asoka expected from his citizens.[88]
From: Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints
(1) A principle that Bhanudas was believed to uphold, which the pedlars criticized.[89] (2) The reality that Kabir awakens to after his conversation with Nipat Niranjan.[90]
From: Self-Knowledge in Krishnamurti’s Philosophy
(1) The essential understanding that must be perceived directly, not merely interpreted through thoughts or beliefs.[91]