Significance of Wise
Synonyms: Sensible, Knowledgeable, Prudent, Sagacious, Clever, Learned, Intelligent
In Finnish: Salvia; In French: Sage; In Dutch: Verstandig; In Spanish: Inteligente; In Swedish: Klok; In German: Salbei; In Malay: Yang bijak; In Italian: Saggio; In Portugese: Sábio; In Polish: Mądry
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Wise'
In Buddhism, "Wise" denotes individuals who understand the Dhamma, detachment, and the revolving nature of existence. They are diligent, knowledgeable, virtuous, and act to benefit others, recognizing danger and seeking liberation.
From: Patipada (path of practice)
(1) Wise individuals are capable of discerning the value of things and understanding their true nature, unlike those who mistake valuable items for something undesirable.[1]
From: Vinaya (2): The Mahavagga
(1) These individuals cross the ocean's floods making a solid path and are considered truly saved.[2]
From: Maha Buddhavamsa—The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) These are individuals who possess discernment and can evaluate conduct, judging actions based on their thoughtfulness.[3] (2) The wise are those who understand and rejoice in the charitable acts of others, leading to happy states and divine bliss.[4]
From: Abhidhamma in Daily Life (by Ashin Janakabhivamsa)
(1) The Wise, in this context, refers to beings who can potentially overcome delusion, though even they can be temporarily overwhelmed by it.[5] (2) The wise are never indolent, highlighting the importance of diligence and effort in achieving goals and overcoming challenges, as the teaching of the Buddha emphasizes.[6] (3) Individuals with knowledge and experience who can educate others and foster a good mind.[7] (4) Individuals who possess knowledge and understanding but can still commit wrong acts when deluded by moha (delusion).[8]
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) Possessing wisdom, which can be demonstrated by the awareness of one's own ignorance or lack of understanding.[9] (2) The wise are those who understand the true nature of bonds and attachments, recognizing that worldly desires are stronger fetters than physical ones.[10] (3) A person possessing insight and understanding, capable of discerning truth and making sound decisions based on Buddhist principles.[11] (4) The wise is a descriptor used in the story of the past to describe Young Archer, highlighting his wisdom and skill in the arts and crafts he had acquired.[12] (5) The wise are those who praise individuals of flawless conduct, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and valuing virtuous qualities.[13]
From: Dhammapada (translated from the Pali)
(1) The wise who control their body, their tongue, and their mind are considered truly well-controlled individuals.[14]
From: Guide to Tipitaka
(1) The wise are contrasted with fools in the Balapaptfita Sutta, possessing wholesome thoughts, words, and deeds that result in happiness and bliss.[15]
From: Milindapanha (questions of King Milinda)
(1) The text indicates that those who received the discourse aright were made wise, emphasizing the potential for enlightenment through proper understanding.[16] (2) This refers to those who possess knowledge and understanding, and they do not desire the disruption of the Tathagata's following, indicating a value placed on unity.[17] (3) Describes individuals possessing knowledge, experience, and good judgment.[18]
From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) These are individuals who demonstrated perseverance even when facing difficulties, serving as role models for others to emulate.[19] (2) An individual who contemplates deep questions without cruelty, offering good advice at the right time.[20] (3) The wise is the one who is better than the wealthy fool; the king asked the sage Mahosadha who knowest all the Law, which of the two do clever men call the better?[21] (4) The wise recognize danger and take action to prevent harm, as described in the fifth stanza.[22] (5) Individuals whose advice was not heeded by the disobedient Brother, leading to negative consequences.[23]
From: Vinaya Pitaka (2): Bhikkhuni-vibhanga (the analysis of Nun’ rules)
(1) A characteristic of the nun Thullananda who was very learned, a repeater, and skilled in giving dhamma-talk.[24]
From: Mahayana Mahaparinirvana Sutra
(1) Having or showing experience, knowledge, and good judgment, describing individuals who see through illusions and recognize the falsity of things like echoes, mirages, and dreams, understanding that killing is not true.[25]
From: The Perfection Of Wisdom In Eight Thousand Lines
(1) The individuals who have realized the revolving nature of existence and seek to escape it, similar to how birds move freely.[26]
From: Akshayamatinirdesha [english]
(1) This is a term used to describe people who are not censuring the generosity of the bodhisattvas.[27]
From: Tattvasangraha [with commentary]
(1) Individuals who should not deny the possibility of omniscience in a person like the Blessed Lord.[28] (2) Refers specifically to the Buddhists in the text, who assert views about the Veda's capacity as a means of cognition.[29]
Hindu concept of 'Wise'
In Hinduism, "Wise" signifies profound understanding beyond intellect, encompassing self-control, discernment, and spiritual insight. The wise understand ultimate reality, control passions, and remain undisturbed by worldly gains or losses.
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) The wise are adorned by the grace of equanimity and are more honored by gods and sages than any other. These wise individuals possess deep understanding.[30] (2) This refers to the words of the wise, that are ever fraught with full meaning and are fruitful of the desired object.[31] (3) The formless phenomenals of the world, never appear in the sight of the wise, nor leave vestiges in their mind.[32] (4) The words, face, and eyes of the wise are expressive of their inward thoughts, going together like salt and water, and their mind, word, and act all agree.[33] (5) These are the people for whom the supreme Lord is the adorable one, in the form of the intellect and conscious soul.[34]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) The wise have stated that a man lives in vain if a Brahmana conversant with mantras does not accept water, honey, and curds in his dwelling.[35] (2) Individuals with whom association leads to the practice of virtue and is recommended for those seeking emancipation.[36] (3) No man respected by these individuals would even think of doing mischief to one whose ire is great and favour is productive.[37] (4) This individual, while speaking in an assembly, should always speak the truth if the acquisition of virtue is an object.[38] (5) The wise obtain tranquillity by subduing both grief and joy through specific means and are acquainted with the real nature of the appearance of creatures in this world.[39]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) The wise, when passing time in thoughts of worldly attachments, can also become pained, especially when contrasted with those versed in Jnana and Vijnana.[40]
From: Garuda Purana
(1) Wisdom is a necessary quality for a king's writer or secretary, ensuring they can fulfill their duties effectively.[41]
From: Markandeya Purana
(1) Kanka questioned Vidyudrupa's claim of ownership on the mountain, stating it is not the rule of the wise to claim exclusive rights.[42] (2) It designates the dissolution as ‘natural’ when all this universe becomes dissolved in Nature.[43] (3) Describes individuals who understand the nature of life and death and perceive deeper truths about suffering and devotion.[44]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Shastri)
(1) Sita describes Rama as "wise", indicating her respect for his intelligence and judgment, which she trusts for her protection and guidance.[45] (2) Refers to a characteristic of Bibishana, who reassured the warriors belonging to the simian king with sagacious words.[46] (3) The quality of using numerous strategies efficiently with minimal effort, indicating intellect and foresight.[47] (4) Indicating Rama's deep knowledge and understanding of human motives and actions.[48] (5) A term used to question the queen's judgment and understanding of the political dynamics.[49]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Griffith)
(1) The text wonders if Sugriva is "wise", implying that his judgment may be flawed or lacking in prudence.[50] (2) The wise have told that Sagar’s sons dug the channels of the sea of old.[51] (3) The wise are those who honored the saint and his son, and they departed to the wood together.[52] (4) The wise are those who can control the rising passions of the soul, suggesting they possess self-control.[53] (5) The lord was grateful, true, and wise, highlighting his positive attributes.[54]
From: Laghu-yoga-vasistha
(1) Persons of firm and equal vision as regards all things will never constitute Jnanis (the wise), unless they commingle with the actions of the Indriyas (organs), so long as they possess a body. Otherwise, such persons are only impostors.[55]
From: Bhajana-Rahasya
(1) These individuals understand the transient nature of material pleasures and dedicate their lives to spiritual pursuits.[56]
From: Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu
(1) The wise are those who understand and define the situation where Krishna is the vishaya and His enemies are the ashraya of hasya as aparasah.[57] (2) The wise have identified and named the effects of the sattvika-bhavas, distinguishing between bodily and mental manifestations.[58] (3) According to the wise, Krishna has three ages: kaumara, pauganda and kaishora; these are the ages that are accepted in this context.[59] (4) The wise are those who understand that the acceptance of ratis starting with hasya as secondary rasas is based on ancient scholars' opinions.[60] (5) The wise are the authorities cited in this context, offering their insights into the nature and causes of irregularity in emotional expression and behavior.[61]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) It is not considered wise to continue residing in this particular location, suggesting a need for relocation.[62] (2) Being considered "wise" involves making prudent decisions, suggesting that living with a snake is not a safe or intelligent choice, according to the provided statement.[63] (3) These understand that He is the embodiment of indescribable, supreme spiritual bliss.[64]
From: Prem Sagar (English translation)
(1) Wise individuals are described as those who consider life and death alike. They do not differentiate between these two states of existence.[65]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) Wise describes Shri Krishna, who is considered the best among the wise, and gave instructions to Arjuna during a difficult time in his life.[66]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) An individual is recognized as skilled in communication, capable of delivering messages with beauty and effectiveness.[67] (2) This is a descriptor applied to the individuals who came to Nanda's palace according to the text.[68] (3) These are individuals who possess knowledge and share the ancient story about the holy place.[69] (4) Refers to individuals who possess knowledge or insight; in the text, the speaker identifies someone as the best among them.[70] (5) A reference to individuals characterized by wisdom, to whom Nanda addresses his request for information.[71]
From: Haribhakti-sudhodaya
(1) Individuals who do not count the period of life spent devoid of Hari-smaran, focusing instead on contemplation upon Sri Narayana.[72]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad
(1) For these individuals, the knowledge of feeling pain has only a secondary sense, not affecting their true nature.[73] (2) The wise are related to the questions concerning whether they do or do not attain Brahman, which are addressed in the text.[74]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad Bhashya Vartika
(1) Individuals possessing deep knowledge and understanding, who form judgments based on insight.[75] (2) The wise are the group of people whose established practices are being referenced as examples for the recipient concerning the appropriate conduct to follow.[76] (3) Wise individuals are those who possess profound understanding and insight, enabling them to make sound judgments and decisions based on their knowledge and discernment.[77] (4) The "wise" are individuals who possess knowledge and understanding, and they are the ones who recognize and define the quality of being balishtha.[78] (5) Refers to individuals who possess knowledge and understanding, highlighted in the text through the assertion of similarities with Brahman.[79]
From: Thirty minor Upanishads
(1) The wise are individuals whose association is sought in the Shubheccha and vicarana stages, guiding one on the spiritual path.[80] (2) In the case of the wise, the mind is destroyed: but in the case of the ignorant, it is indeed a fetter, according to the provided text.[81] (3) A description of someone who possesses profound understanding and insight.[82] (4) Emphasizes the state of understanding and knowledge that transcends mere intellectual comprehension.[83]
From: Vivekachudamani
(1) The wise ones have named the mind ignorance because it causes the universe to move like the wind moves clouds.[84] (2) Individuals who have the capacity to perceive the underlying unity between the substratum and what is superimposed.[85]
From: Mandukya Upanishad (Gaudapa Karika and Shankara Bhashya)
(1) These are individuals who, according to Vedanta, perceive the universe in a particular way, understanding its true nature.[86] (2) These individuals declare the identity of experiences in the dream and waking states, based on the experience of objects and the subject-object relationship, leading to the conclusion that these states are identical.[87] (3) Individuals who possess knowledge and understanding, free from emotional disturbances like attachment, fear, and anger.[88]
From: Isopanisad (Madhva commentary)
(1) This term refers to suris, and especially of Hiranyagarbha, highlighting the ultimate objective.[89] (2) This refers to the seer, the knower of all, and the omniscient, which is a characteristic of the Lord, according to the text provided.[90] (3) A term used to refer to those who possess profound knowledge or insight, often sharing their understanding with others.[91]
From: Brahma Sutras (Ramanuja)
(1) The wise are those who see and teach the abode of the highest, of Vishnu, which is reached by those freed from all evil and is the Brahma-world.[92] (2) Individuals who possess knowledge of the Self as vast and omnipresent and do not experience grief.[93] (3) Individuals who understand the profound nature of Brahman and recognize it as the womb of all beings.[94]
From: Brahma Sutras (Shankaracharya)
(1) The wise are described as those who declare that the head of the highest Lord is the heavenly world, as per another Smriti passage.[95] (2) Individuals who through meditation gain an understanding of the deeper philosophical truths about the Self.[96]
From: Mundaka Upanishad (Madhva commentary)
(1) Individuals who possess deep understanding and insight into spiritual truths, often led by the light of knowledge.[97]
From: Mandukya Upanishad
(1) Having or showing experienced, knowledge, and good judgment; often associated with philosophical insights.[98]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) Wisdom is an essential characteristic for ministers, contributing to sound judgment and effective governance.[99] (2) A quality the chief minister should possess in order to take on the affairs of men when the king is tired.[100] (3) Individuals who are wise are characterized by their cautiousness and avoidance of unguarded behavior concerning women.[101] (4) Refers to knowledgeable individuals who condemn the practice of boasting about one's family or gotra for self-serving purposes.[102] (5) A term that describes a father who understands the impropriety of accepting gifts in connection with marriage arrangements.[103]
From: Vasistha Dharmasutra
(1) It is a characteristic that can be achieved by pledging to safeguard others from all dangers, indicating knowledge and understanding.[104]
From: Hayanaratna: The Jewel of Annual Astrology
(1) The wise are those who are knowledgeable in astrology and are referenced throughout the text in the context of understanding and interpreting the various divisions within the twelve dignities.[105] (2) The wise are those who can understand the planetary positions day by day to consider the results that are produced for kings, and they can analyze the different combinations.[106] (3) The wise should predict the time of attaining that result, taking into consideration the aspects of malefics and benefics.[107]
From: Hitopadesha (English translation)
(1) A descriptor applied to advisors like the Vulture Far-sight and the Goose, whose counsel is valued for guiding kings and ensuring the prosperity of their kingdoms.[108]
From: Kautilya Arthashastra
(1) Wise is a qualification of a ministerial officer, and their wisdom is part of the essential qualities needed for effective leadership and decision-making.[109]
From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)
(1) The wise are characterized by their ability to keep aloof from women who can fascinate a man, understanding the potential dangers of such attractions.[110] (2) The wise is who do not take leave of their fortitude even in the most grievous hour of calamity.[111]
From: Yoga-sutras (with Vyasa and Vachaspati Mishra)
(1) The wise are those who have come to know both the starting and finishing ends of life through verbal and inferential knowledge, yet the fear of death remains established in them.[112] (2) Individuals who possess knowledge and discernment, understanding the nature of the body and the illusions surrounding it.[113]
From: Satapatha-brahmana
(1) This entity is invoked to shield and protect the high altar from behind with the Rudras.[114]
From: Natyashastra (English)
(1) The styles are to be reckoned by the wise in connection with the drama.[115]
From: Rasa Jala Nidhi, vol 1: Initiation, Mercury and Laboratory
(1) The preceptor should be this, indicating profound knowledge, understanding, and sound judgment in various matters.[116]
From: Parama Samhita (English translation)
(1) To those who remain in doubt even after consulting other treatises bearing on the subject, this treatise is recommended the best (by, ), and they will have no suffering, no anger, and no anguish of mind.[117]
From: Manasara (English translation)
(1) These individuals offer counsel and guidance, recommending specific qualities and approaches for kings to adopt.[118]
From: History of Indian Medicine (and Ayurveda)
(1) A quality also known as Dhira, one of the salient qualities described as constituting the eligibility of a student for medical studies.[119]
From: Bharadvaja-srauta-sutra
(1) Wise is an attribute ascribed to Agni, indicating his knowledge and understanding. The prayer addresses Agni as 'the wise'.[120]
Jain concept of 'Wise'
In Jainism, "Wise" describes individuals with deep understanding, humility, and insight. It signifies those knowledgeable about spiritual paths, exemplified by figures like Sagaracandra and Surashreshtha, who embody intelligence, discernment, and adherence to the law.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) Having or showing experience, knowledge, and good judgment, yet sometimes deceived by those skilled in deceit.[121] (2) The wise are encouraged to observe the Master's dissimilarity of character from all creatures of samsara.[122] (3) Individuals characterized by their deep understanding and knowledge, who benefit from the teachings being discussed.[123] (4) Individuals who possess knowledge and understanding about the way to cultivate purity of mind and attain spiritual goals.[124] (5) An adjective characterizing Surashreshtha's intelligence and discernment.[125]
From: Naladiyar
(1) Individuals displaying true intelligence understand the inevitability of aging and proactively adopt ascetic practices during their youth.[126] (2) Individuals possessing deep understanding, insight, and good judgment, capable of comprehending complex situations and offering valuable guidance or support.[127] (3) Refers to people of understanding.[128]
From: Acaranga-sutra
(1) This person always wake and understands the world, and is free from hostility.[129] (2) They should know the law.[130]
From: Sutrakritanga (English translation)
(1) Individuals who possess deep understanding and insight, often characterized by humility.[131]
The concept of Wise in local and regional sources
Wise individuals observe nature's lessons, love all beings recognizing the Lord in everyone, follow God, offer guidance, possess knowledge, resist revenge, and understand evolution, exemplified by figures like Marcus Aurelius.
From: Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints
(1) These individuals should not harbor any uncertainty regarding the events described, particularly concerning the divine favor shown in solitude.[132] (2) These individuals can discern the favorable conditions of arts and sciences in a divine kirtan.[133]
From: Triveni Journal
(1) Wisdom is a present quality, developed over time and contrasting with past blindness and unkindness.[134] (2) The wise traveler seeks out a single vantage point that reveals the entire panorama of a city, offering profound insight.[135] (3) To get from the contradictions of the universe to the unison and peace which belong to the original Being should be the aim and purpose of the "wise".[136] (4) The state of meditating on the everlasting peace is identical with that of this or the Nishkama Bhakta, the state of intense devotion or Parabhakti.[137] (5) These are people who are knowledgeable. Questioning them excessively may lead to antagonism, implying a limit to the pursuit of knowledge.[138]
From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda
(1) These individuals are not satisfied with the idea that the denial of desire would be compensated by enjoyments hereafter.[139] (2) The wise are those who, knowing Hari, the Lord, is in every being, manifest unswerving love towards all beings, and thus achieve a higher state of being.[140]
The concept of Wise in scientific sources
Wise, in this context, refers to individuals recognized for their wisdom. Daniel references these "wise" people, distinguishing them from the Maccabees, whom he considers less helpful.
From: Religions Journal (MDPI)
(1) in some cases can easily lapse into foolishness, and may function as a tactic in a general strategy to suggest something more or other than what is expressed.[141] (2) Daniel is not referring here to the Maccabees, who are dismissed as “little help,” but to people called this.[142]
From: Sustainability Journal (MDPI)
(1) For these specific organizations studied in Spain, the level of professionalization evident in their management practices was found to positively impact their social effectiveness while negatively affecting their economic effectiveness.[143]
Classical concept of 'Wise'
From: The Nicomachean Ethics of Aristotle
(1) The wise differ from the many in their account of what happiness is, suggesting that they have a deeper or more nuanced understanding of the concept compared to the general population.[144]
From: Aesop's Fables (English translation)
(1) Jupiter called Minerva "wise" for valuing usefulness, stating that unless what we do is useful, the glory of it is vain.[145] (2) The narrative emphasizes the importance of prudence and learning from the misfortunes of others, as exemplified by the fox's ability to recognize and avoid the lion's trap, which highlights being wise.[146] (3) Having or showing experience, knowledge, and good judgment is being wise, which is a trait exhibited by turning circumstances to one's advantage.[147]
From: Development of Religion and Thought in Ancient Egypt
(1) It signifies possessing deep knowledge, understanding, and sound judgment, often acquired through experience, reflection, and the ability to discern truth and make informed decisions.[148]