Significance of Vidya
Synonyms: Knowledge, Learning, Wisdom, Education, Skill, Understanding
In Dutch: Vidya; In Finnish: Vidya; In Spanish: Vidya
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Vidya'
In Buddhism, Vidya signifies profound knowledge, exemplified by Sakka, the king of the gods, who symbolizes enlightenment through his teachings to King Nimi, highlighting the transformative power of wisdom in spiritual growth.
From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) The knowledge represented by Sakka, the king of the gods, who came to enlighten King Nimi.[1]
Hindu concept of 'Vidya'
Vidya in Hinduism symbolizes the highest intellect, encompassing various forms of divine and mystical knowledge essential for spiritual realization, liberation, and understanding of the self, Brahman, and sacred texts. It transforms ignorance into enlightenment.
From: Skanda Purana
(1) Represented as the highest intellect; a significant quality associated with Girija, embodying divine knowledge and wisdom.[2] (2) Learning or knowledge, which was propitiated by Vishvamitra at the shrine Baladitya, highlighting the importance of education in spiritual endeavors.[3] (3) Different branches of knowledge or sciences recognized in Hindu tradition, offering ways to understand the cosmos and human existence.[4] (4) Knowledge, especially spiritual or scriptural knowledge that is highly valued.[5] (5) The knowledge associated with sacred texts and rituals that is believed to bestow wisdom and insight.[6]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) The aspect of Maya that reveals truth and liberates individuals.[7] (2) The knowledge imparted by the Devi that helps beings realize their eternal nature, freeing them from egoism.[8] (3) Knowledge that leads to liberation and the dissolution of ignorance (Avidya), understood as a higher understanding of self.[9] (4) The knowledge that is capable of destroying Ignorance, essential for the realization of the Self.[10]
From: Shiva Purana
(1) Knowledge or wisdom that transforms understanding and is personified in Vishnu.[11] (2) Knowledge or wisdom, often symbolized and worshiped during spiritual rituals.[12] (3) Knowledge or wisdom that purifies and elevates understanding to higher realms.[13] (4) Knowledge that is integrated into the process of Nyasa and worship, viewed as essential for spiritual advancement.[14]
From: Bhagavata Purana
(1) Knowledge or learning, especially in the spiritual or philosophical context pertaining to the Vedas.[15] (2) Knowledge or learning that is considered a source of power and is associated with the divine.[16]
From: Agni Purana
(1) Knowledge or mystical knowledge related to the spells or mantras used in worship.[17] (2) Specific knowledge or teachings within spiritual practices, in this context, regarding the mantra.[18]
From: Bhagavad-gita-rahasya (or Karma-yoga Shastra)
(1) Knowledge leading to realization of the Brahman, typically acquired through contemplation and meditation on the true nature of reality.[19] (2) Spiritual knowledge or learning that includes understanding the divine and the principles of reality, recognized as essential for liberation.[20]
From: Markandeya Purana (Study)
(1) The various types of knowledge that are considered to be portions of Devi-mahamaya.[21]
From: Lalitopakhyana (Lalita Mahatmya)
(1) Knowledge or wisdom, particularly involving the practices and teachings related to spiritual mantras.[22]
From: Brihaddharma Purana (abridged)
(1) The source of knowledge and the five objects of perception: smell, taste, form, touch, and sound.[23]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) Knowledge or true understanding that liberates the soul and leads to Emancipation.[24]
From: Brahma Purana
(1) Knowledge or wisdom, especially of spiritual nature, that is necessary for devotion and union with the divine.[25]
From: Padma Purana
(1) Knowledge that is associated with the Vedas, illustrating the significance of sacred texts in maintaining order.[26]
From: Brahma Sutras (Ramanuja)
(1) Knowledge or disciplines that are highlighted within the text which reveal different aspects of the meditative practices and their interpretations.[27] (2) Knowledge or disciplines in the context of meditation, which can be separated based on their characteristics.[28] (3) The different types of knowledge or meditative practices that establish distinctions in the understanding of the Self.[29] (4) The different forms of meditation on Brahman that the Vedanta-texts enjoin.[30] (5) Refers to knowledge that leads to the highest goal of human existence, particularly spiritual understanding or realization.[31]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad
(1) Knowledge or understanding, particularly that which is conducive to spiritual growth.[32] (2) Knowledge or wisdom that allows one to overcome ignorance and perceive the inherent bliss of Brahman.[33] (3) Different forms of contemplations or meditative knowledge segments found within the scriptures.[34] (4) Wisdom or knowledge that is necessary for progressing toward liberation.[35]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad Bhashya Vartika
(1) It is known as vidya because it makes known Brahman.[36] (2) Knowledge or awareness that dispels ignorance (avidya) and enables the recognition of one's identity with Brahman.[37]
From: Ishavasya Upanishad with Shankara Bhashya (Sitarama)
(1) Vidya refers to knowledge that leads to specific and distinct results, such as attaining Devaloka, as mentioned in the texts.[38]
From: Thirty minor Upanishads
(1) The two sciences, Shabdabrahman and Parabrahman, important for knowledge.[39]
From: Kena upanishad (Madhva commentary)
(1) Knowledge that is acquired through proper study, practice, and the implementation of foundational spiritual principles.[40]
From: Brahma Sutras (Shankara Bhashya)
(1) Refers to types of knowledge or wisdom, particularly in the context of the Purusha Vidya discussed in the Chhandogya and Taittiriya.[41]
From: Mandukya Upanishad (Gaudapa Karika and Shankara Bhashya)
(1) The highest knowledge, signifying the identity of the Supreme Self and Jiva, crucial for achieving immortality.[42]
From: Lakulisha-Pashupata (Philosophy and Practice)
(1) This term refers to knowledge or learning, particularly in the context of spiritual education and practice in Saivism.[43] (2) The concept of knowledge, which is considered prime importance for aspirants in the Lakulisa-Pasupata order.[44]
From: Gitartha Samgraha (critical Study)
(1) Knowledge or understanding, regarded as essential for emancipation and spiritual enlightenment.[45]
From: Shaiva Upanishads (A Critical Study)
(1) The Kala associated with learning, which came into existence through the Aghora face of Ishvara.[46]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) Knowledge that represents the awakening and development of spiritual propensities within a person.[47] (2) Refers to material knowledge, primarily focused on sense gratification.[48] (3) Often misunderstood as knowledge about incompletely understood subjects, in contrast to the true knowledge of the Supreme Lord.[49]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) Types of knowledge or learning, which Mahalakshmi embodies and bestows upon individuals, contributing to their spiritual and material progress.[50]
From: Shakti and Shakta
(1) Different forms of knowledge or teachings that may seem diverse but all aim towards a common goal—Liberation.[51] (2) Knowledge or learning, specifically in spiritual contexts, that is suited to a practitioner’s level of Adhikara.[52] (3) Knowledge or learning, particularly pertaining to sacred texts and spiritual practices.[53]
From: Kavyamimamsa of Rajasekhara (Study)
(1) Knowledge that includes various disciplines relevant to the creation and understanding of poetry.[54] (2) Refers to significant branches of knowledge necessary for poets as outlined by Rajashekhara.[55] (3) Important branches of knowledge that are essential for a poet, as highlighted in Rajashekhara's instruction on poetic education.[56]
From: Shat-cakra-nirupana (the six bodily centres)
(1) Represents knowledge and wisdom in the divine context of the described region.[57] (2) Represents knowledge, often indicated by a book that Hakini holds.[58]
From: Padarthadharmasamgraha and Nyayakandali
(1) Knowledge or cognition that contrasts with avidya; it serves to exclude forms of ignorance such as doubt and misconception.[59] (2) Knowledge or activity that results from a distinct cognition, which is not applicable to indefinite cognition.[60]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) The Sanskrit term for knowledge, encompassing both the understanding of texts and their meanings.[61]
From: Parama Samhita (English translation)
(1) The incantation that is appropriately used in worship to achieve the desired qualities or blessings from the deity.[62]
Jain concept of 'Vidya'
In Jainism, Vidya represents mystical knowledge and magical powers sought for spiritual mastery, revered in the teachings of the Jinas, integral to characters' abilities, and associated with supernatural skills and sacred wisdom.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) Refers to specific knowledge or magical skills that characters utilized in battle.[63] (2) The knowledge or skills associated with the Vidyadharas, particularly in the context of rule and power.[64] (3) Magical powers or arts referenced throughout the story, particularly in the context of conflict and deception.[65] (4) Knowledge or teachings that are respected in the context of the Jinas and those involved in spiritual practices.[66] (5) Mystical powers or knowledge that Ravana and his brothers sought to subdue during their meditation.[67]
The concept of Vidya in local and regional sources
Vidya pertains to disciplines linked to Buddhist study, highlighting the significance of the five vidyas as essential teachings that inform scholarly endeavors within the Buddhist tradition.
From: Buddhist records of the Western world (Xuanzang)
(1) The teachings or disciplines associated with Buddhist study, of which the five vidyas are mentioned in the context of scholarly pursuits.[68]
From: Triveni Journal
(1) In the context of the Upanishads, refers to various practical methods for spiritual realization, often overlooked by scholars.[69]