Significance of Wise men
Wise men, across various philosophical and religious traditions, embody profound knowledge and understanding. In Buddhism, they recognize the transient nature of pleasure and strive for spiritual growth by isolating from worldly distractions. Jainism emphasizes a wise man's moral integrity and adherence to truth, while Tibetan Buddhism highlights their discernment and insight into the nature of reality. In essence, wise men are characterized by their deep understanding, ethical choices, and quest for enlightenment, acting as guiding figures in various contexts.
Synonyms: Learned men, Intellectuals, Advisors
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 men'
In Buddhism, "Wise men" embody profound understanding and ethical conduct, serving as intelligent guides who transform challenges into opportunities, appreciate impermanence, and prioritize wisdom over earthly desires, akin to the revered Bodhisatta.
From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) Individuals who critically observe and scrutinize boastful behaviors and empty promises.[1] (2) Referred to Rama-pandita, who exemplifies intelligence and understanding in contrast to his grieving siblings.[2] (3) A person embodying knowledge, virtue, and right conduct, whom the Great Being wishes to associate with.[3] (4) Figures who provide counsel and wisdom, aiding in the theme of understanding deeper truths about sacrifice and attachment.[4] (5) Individuals who recognize and act upon the dangers posed by seemingly small threats.[5]
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) A person who maintains an understanding of truth without claiming absolute knowledge, as advised by the Buddha.[6] (2) Individuals whose admonitions are to be heeded for resisting temptations and achieving restraint.[7] (3) An individual possessing a deep understanding of moral and ethical principles and capable of making sound decisions.[8] (4) A person of wisdom who actively engages in good deeds and self-improvement, as emphasized by the Buddha in the verse.[9] (5) Individuals of the past who maintained composure over loss and engaged in meditation about death, demonstrating a path of wisdom.[10]
From: Maha Buddhavamsa—The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) An individual who understands the true nature of happiness, particularly as it relates to Nibbana.[11] (2) Eight men sent by Anathapindika as guarantors for Culasubhadda, responsible for solving her issues lawfully.[12] (3) A person characterized by prudence and reflection, able to create substantial outcomes from seemingly insignificant beginnings.[13] (4) An individual who understands the transient nature of wealth and prioritizes preserving existing resources over accumulating new ones.[14] (5) Individuals who possess wisdom and understanding, capable of grasping the essence of Dighiti's advice.[15]
From: Visuddhimagga (the pah of purification)
(1) A person who has established themselves well in virtue and actively develops consciousness and understanding.[16] (2) An individual who is established well in virtue and develops consciousness and understanding.[17] (3) A person who possesses understanding born from previous kamma and acts with wisdom.[18] (4) A person who is established well in virtue and possesses developed consciousness and understanding.[19] (5) A person who understands the nature of aggregates and their relation to suffering and clinging.[20]
From: Dhammapada (translated from the Pali)
(1) An individual who makes judicious decisions by prioritizing greater pleasures over lesser ones.[21] (2) An individual who embodies wisdom and virtue, capable of recognizing and appreciating liberality.[22] (3) A wise man is one who directs himself properly and teaches others, avoiding suffering through self-discipline and guidance.[23] (4) An individual who demonstrates wisdom through knowledge and virtuous living.[24] (5) A person of wisdom whose association can help others perceive truth and reality.[25]
From: Mahavamsa
(1) The individuals who received the pabbajja and attained arahantship.[26] (2) An individual who understands the transient nature of life and chooses to renounce worldly pleasures.[27]
From: Vinaya Pitaka (4): Parivara
(1) Individuals who demonstrate proper judgment and awareness of allowable actions.[28] (2) An individual characterized by knowledge and insight, capable of avoiding certain offences that an ignorant person may incur.[29]
From: Vinaya Pitaka (3): Khandhaka
(1) Individuals who possess knowledge and understanding about spiritual matters, enabling them to overcome obstacles.[30]
From: The Catu-Bhanavara-Pali (critical study)
(1) Individuals who possess wisdom and are deemed worthy of worship and association, as advised in the Maha-Mangala sutta.[31]
From: Guide to Tipitaka
(1) A person known by his conduct in deed, word, and thought, akin to the identification of a fool.[32]
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) An individual who does not believe in gods and understands the principles of Buddhism.[33] (2) Refers to a perceptive person who understands the impermanence of life and values generous actions.[34] (3) Individuals whom the king of Magadha consulted regarding the troubles in the city; included panditas.[35] (4) A figure in the text who does not believe in the gods and understands that the destiny of the world depends on causes and conditions.[36] (5) An individual characterized by knowledge and insight, referred to as vijna, who recognizes the validity of skillfully presented concepts.[37]
From: Mahavastu (great story)
(1) An individual who refrains from asking for alms and maintains a sense of dignity and self-restraint.[38] (2) A person who does not seek worldly gains despite losing wealth and who lives free from wrongdoing.[39] (3) A sought figure of wisdom, underscoring the human desire for guidance in times of need.[40] (4) An individual who uses wisdom to transform unfavorable circumstances into favorable ones.[41] (5) An individual characterized by knowledge, understanding, and moderation in actions and speech.[42]
From: Abhidharmakośa
(1) The contents of Chapter 9 are summarized for intelligent persons, suggesting that only the wise will understand and accept the teachings.[43]
From: Lotus Sutra (Saddharma-Pundarika)
(1) A figure noted for their understanding and insight, who devotes themselves to preaching Buddhist teachings without envy or malice.[44]
From: Tattvasangraha [with commentary]
(1) Individuals characterized by their intelligence and understanding, who are capable of discerning truth through thorough testing.[45] (2) A person of discernment who recognizes that what possesses good qualities cannot be easily forsaken or altered.[46] (3) Individuals who are learned and knowledgeable, highly regarding the pure teaching.[47] (4) Individuals who hold specific philosophical views, particularly those identified as Idealist Buddhists, reflecting a perspective on the nature of conceptual thought and reality.[48] (5) The wise men refer to Buddhists who have declared certain philosophical views regarding knowledge and perception.[49]
From: Blue Annals (deb-ther sngon-po)
(1) A term describing jo ston dbang phyug grags, the author of the life story and a respected teacher in Tibetan culture.[50] (2) Individuals characterized by their understanding and practice of the Dharma, who experience joy and enlightenment through the teachings.[51]
From: Apadana commentary (Atthakatha)
(1) An individual who seeks to attain independence and spiritual growth by isolating from worldly distractions.[52] (2) An individual who recognizes the transient nature of pleasure and the deeper truths about attachment, embodying the ability to choose a solitary path of wisdom.[53]
From: The Fo-Sho-Hing-Tsan-King (A Life of Buddha)
(1) An individual who seeks true understanding and enlightenment, utilizing knowledge to navigate the complexities of life.[54] (2) A person who understands the dangers of lust and desire, making choices to avoid them for peace.[55]
Hindu concept of 'Wise men'
In Hinduism, wise men are enlightened individuals who possess profound knowledge, understanding of the self, and sound judgment. They guide others, avoid ignorance, and remain tranquil, reflecting life’s transient nature and the eternal essence of existence.
From: Padma Purana
(1) Respected individuals referenced for their knowledge concerning the laws and customs around marriage and family.[56] (2) Individuals characterized by profound knowledge and understanding, often guiding others on spiritual matters.[57] (3) An individual who strives for control over their fickle senses and seeks the highest position through devotion.[58] (4) A knowledgeable and discerning individual, particularly one who understands rituals and the importance of purity.[59] (5) Individuals who recognize and promote the virtues of the Ganga, contributing to their own spiritual elevation and that of others.[60]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) A person characterized by their ability to remain unmoved by external calamities and maintain inner peace and understanding.[61] (2) Individuals who have reached understanding through wisdom and can guide the ignorant.[62] (3) Individuals possessing deep knowledge and understanding, who offer insights on the nature of abandonment and renunciation.[63] (4) Individuals who possess intelligence and understanding, often contrasting with those who are idle and unproductive.[64] (5) Individuals who possess knowledge and understanding, capable of freeing themselves from worldly ties.[65]
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) The wise man ever remains as he is, silent and sedate in his mind; he remains always as unmoved as a picture in painting.[66] (2) An individual who perceives truth through the guidance of scripts known as sastras and understands beyond mere appearance.[67] (3) An individual who remains steadfast and unaffected by the ups and downs of life, embodying wisdom and inner strength.[68] (4) Individuals who act based on situational appropriateness rather than personal will.[69] (5) A person who is knowledgeable, calm, and well-balanced, and serves as a guide for others through their wise behavior and understanding.[70]
From: Agni Purana
(1) An intelligent individual who follows the proper guidelines for constructing temples without infringing on existing ones.[71] (2) A knowledgeable person who executes the ceremonial duties, ensuring the proper formulation of the ablution rituals.[72] (3) A wise man has to create eight ornaments of graceful expressions by the side of the doors.[73] (4) A person who knows to avoid bathing with oil for four months starting from ashadha.[74] (5) Individuals who attain knowledge through their senses and understanding of reality.[75]
From: Skanda Purana
(1) An individual who acknowledges the pervasiveness of Shiva and worships him for personal welfare.[76] (2) An individual characterized by wisdom who understands the importance of human effort in achieving goals.[77] (3) Individuals possessing wisdom, encouraged to perform righteous acts mentioned in the text.[78] (4) A term referenced when discussing the trustworthiness of women, suggesting that wisdom entails caution.[79] (5) An individual who possesses knowledge and prudence, deemed capable of performing the prescribed rituals at Dhanada.[80]
From: Bhagavata Purana
(1) An individual who seeks liberation and the highest consciousness by controlling destructive emotions.[81] (2) Sages and learned individuals who possess deep understanding and do not confine their perception of the divine to material descriptions.[82] (3) An individual who realizes the temporary nature of the physical body and does not develop attachments to it.[83] (4) Individuals who practice devotion and rightly understand the essence of spirituality.[84] (5) An individual who exercises discernment, self-control, and dispassion towards the material body and property while still performing necessary duties.[85]
From: Markandeya Purana
(1) A reference to the moral character expected of individuals, particularly in the context of self-preservation and ethics.[86] (2) A person who conducts rituals and offerings mindfully and with respect towards traditions.[87] (3) People who are knowledgeable but may not always act justly or mercifully.[88] (4) A person acknowledged for their knowledge and sound judgment.[89] (5) An individual who understands the spiritual teachings and performs acts of reverence, recommended to uphold righteousness and gain benefits.[90]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki
(1) Individuals, particularly the brahmins, who possess deep knowledge of customs, ethics, and divine laws.[91] (2) A reference to the sagely advice against giving one's daughter to a warrior, reflecting on choices in relationships.[92] (3) A person of wisdom who reflects upon moral actions and the consequences of harming others.[93] (4) Individuals who are knowledgeable and discerning, recommended to recite the Ramayana to share its teachings.[94] (5) The assembly members who are knowledgeable and supportive of Bharata's quest to bring back Rama.[95]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) Individuals who possess knowledge and understanding, often sought for guidance in times of grief.[96] (2) A person of wisdom and knowledge, who the King is advised to seek for guidance regarding his lamentation.[97] (3) Individuals who have deep knowledge and understanding as recognized in the Vedas, Puranas, and other Sastras.[98] (4) Individuals whose teachings satisfy the organ of hearing with profound words of wisdom.[99] (5) Individuals who rely on observable evidence rather than assumptions, specifically regarding the powers of Shumbha.[100]
From: Garuda Purana
(1) An intelligent or discerning individual known for good judgment.[101] (2) An individual who acts with careful judgment and preserves what is trustworthy.[102] (3) An individual with deep knowledge and experience who imparts valuable lessons without necessity for material wealth.[103] (4) Individuals who exercise prudence and act with foresight, considering the outcomes of their actions based on both expediency and morality.[104] (5) A person who is prudent and discerning in their actions and relationships.[105]
From: Sanatsujatiya (English translation)
(1) A person characterized by wisdom, understanding, and the ability to act appropriately based on that knowledge.[106] (2) An individual who, through understanding, embodies tranquility and the ability to perceive the deeper essence of existence.[107]
From: Laghu-yoga-vasistha
(1) Individuals who possess true knowledge and understanding, capable of guiding and enlightening others.[108] (2) Individuals who maintain tranquility and joy despite challenging circumstances.[109]
From: Vishnu Purana (Taylor)
(1) A description of an individual who achieves great understanding and knowledge of the nature of reality.[110] (2) Individuals who believe it is inappropriate for kshatriyas to ask for gifts, believing selflessness is a virtue.[111]
From: Shiva Purana
(1) Referring to sage Vasishtha, illustrating his wisdom and status among the learned.[112] (2) Individuals recognized for their intelligence and understanding, who appreciate the teachings of the goddess.[113]
From: Gautami Mahatmya
(1) Individuals who act intelligently by balancing self-interest with respect and maintaining prestige.[114] (2) Individuals depicted in the text who understand the implications of taking back offerings and embody wisdom.[115]
From: Vishnu Purana
(1) A person who comprehends and values spiritual truths, often understood through the wisdom of Vishnu.[116] (2) An individual characterized by sound judgment and being cautious in actions.[117]
From: Anugita (English translation)
(1) An individual who, by understanding the truth and being devoid of egoism, achieves liberation.[118]
From: Nilamata Purana
(1) An individual who wisely assembles specific items for the pacification and welfare rites of horses.[119]
From: Bhagavadgita
(1) An individual who acts without attachment, serving as a role model for others while fulfilling their duties.[120]
From: Brahma Purana
(1) A person characterized by discernment and good judgment, especially in following proper conduct and rituals.[121]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad Bhashya Vartika
(1) A person who possesses knowledge and understanding, specifically in relation to attaining Brahman.[122] (2) A person who has deep knowledge or understanding, particularly in relation to knowing oneself and the concept of Brahman.[123] (3) A knowledgeable individual who understands the nature of the Self and its relation to the world.[124] (4) A person who has attained knowledge and understanding of the self, recognizing the distinction between the different sheaths.[125] (5) A person who, through understanding the support symbol, reaches either the higher or lower Brahman.[126]
From: Vivekachudamani
(1) An individual who has achieved self-realization and understands the nature of Brahman through deep meditation.[127] (2) The wise or sage is identified as someone who has achieved a state of realization through discernment and sees the eternal Atman as his true Self.[128] (3) An enlightened individual who understands and attains knowledge of Brahman, leading to Liberation.[129] (4) A person who possesses knowledge and understanding, yet can be afflicted by desires for sense-objects.[130] (5) A person who possesses deep understanding and insight, capable of discerning the real from the unreal.[131]
From: Mandukya Upanishad (Gaudapa Karika and Shankara Bhashya)
(1) An enlightened individual who perceives everything as Brahman, discerning truth beyond personal opinions.[132] (2) An individual who is established in the knowledge of non-duality and does not publicly proclaim their enlightened state.[133] (3) Individuals who have attained knowledge of the true nature of reality, particularly in the context of Vedanta philosophy.[134] (4) An individual who understands the non-duality of Atman and does not engage in rituals or actions motivated by external desires.[135] (5) An individual who perceives reality correctly, recognizing the true nature of existence as the non-dual Atman.[136]
From: Ashtavakra Gita
(1) An individual who is aware of his supreme self-nature and remains unaffected by external circumstances, experiencing neither pleasure nor disappointment.[137] (2) An individual who has transcended the duality of attachment and aversion, embodying a sense of understanding and freedom.[138] (3) An individual who understands the nature of reality and remains unaffected by worldly experiences.[139] (4) An enlightened individual who recognizes the equality of experiences, cultivating neutrality towards pleasure and pain.[140]
From: Thirty minor Upanishads
(1) A wise man is someone who recognizes the identity of Brahman as the self, thus escaping the inevitability of death.[141] (2) A person who conducts himself with the innocence and nature of a child, embodying qualities like silence, wisdom, and blamelessness.[142] (3) An individual who has attained profound knowledge and understanding of Brahman and the nature of existence.[143] (4) A person who possesses deep understanding and knowledge, especially in spiritual matters.[144]
From: Brahma Sutras (Ramanuja)
(1) An enlightened individual who seeks the Supreme Lord as the highest goal and is dear to Him.[145] (2) An individual who has attained enlightenment and understands the nature of reality, resulting in freedom from name and form.[146] (3) An enlightened individual who understands the transient nature of life and seeks liberation by uniting with the divine.[147]
From: Shiva Gita (study and summary)
(1) An enlightened individual who understands their past life and possesses complete knowledge, regarded as equivalent to God.[148] (2) An individual who possesses deep understanding and insight, particularly about the nature of the divine.[149]
From: Chandogya Upanishad (Shankara Bhashya)
(1) An enlightened individual who understands the deeper truths of existence and the self.[150] (2) An individual who perceives the unity of all existence through the understanding of the Self, leading to profound realizations and connection with the Infinite.[151]
From: Mundaka Upanishad with Shankara’s Commentary
(1) An individual who possesses deep knowledge and understanding of the Atman, leading him not to engage in discussions about worldly matters but to focus on the essence of existence.[152]
From: Kaivalya Upanishad
(1) A sage who seeks Truth and is willing to endure the trials of knowledge acquisition, ultimately liberating himself from ignorance and its bonds.[153]
From: Ishavasya Upanishad with Shankara Bhashya (Sitarama)
(1) Wise men are the knowledgeable individuals who impart the teachings of Vidya and Avidya to disciples, sharing insights derived from tradition.[154]
From: Siddhanta Sangraha of Sri Sailacharya
(1) Individuals who possess wisdom and are capable of discerning the validity of statements concerning moral and ethical actions.[155]
From: Katha Upanishad with Shankara’s Commentary
(1) An individual characterized by wisdom, particularly in understanding the nature of reality and existence.[156]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) A knowledgeable individual who understands the impropriety of accepting gifts that could imply a transaction in marriage.[157] (2) An individual who is prudent in making decisions about marriage, particularly in choosing a partner of appropriate age.[158] (3) An individual recognized for their wisdom and knowledge, deserving of respect.[159] (4) A learned individual who possesses knowledge and understanding but should remain silent unless asked, especially in matters of scriptural instruction.[160] (5) Individuals recognized for their knowledge who describe the food of certain people as being improper.[161]
From: Apastamba Dharma-sutra
(1) An individual who has successfully eliminated destructive faults and consequently gains freedom or salvation.[162] (2) An individual who seeks the knowledge of the Atman while dismissing sensory objects in the worldly realm.[163] (3) Individuals who are knowledgeable and whose actions are praised by those of the three twice-born castes.[164]
From: Baudhayana Dharmasutra
(1) An individual regarded for their intelligence and prudence, particularly in avoiding corruption of the mind while performing duties.[165]
From: Hitopadesha (English translation)
(1) A phrase indicating that in their absence, those of lesser intelligence frequently take positions of power, used to critique societal norms.[166] (2) Individuals who are perceived to be intelligent and trusted by kings to deal with potential plots or dangers.[167] (3) A figure characterized by self-restraint and understanding of life’s transient nature.[168] (4) Individuals known for their cautious and thoughtful planning to avoid misfortune.[169] (5) Individuals who prioritize wisdom over pleasure, indicating the value of having knowledge and insight.[170]
From: Kautilya Arthashastra
(1) Individuals with great knowledge and experience who can provide valuable counsel.[171] (2) An individual, including a child, whose sensible insights the king is encouraged to heed during consultations.[172]
From: Shishupala-vadha (Study)
(1) Individuals who possess knowledge and understanding, often choosing to avoid conflict with the immodest or cruel.[173] (2) Knowledgeable individuals who provide counsel on which strategies to employ based on circumstances.[174]
From: Shukra Niti by Shukracharya
(1) A person characterized by intelligence and moral rectitude, who governs their actions thoughtfully.[175]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) A person who is capable of understanding deeply, contextually referring to those who can relate to the pain of separation.[176] (2) A wise man knows the entire material world is a dream.[177] (3) Individuals who possess deep knowledge and understanding.[178] (4) A learned individual who possesses knowledge and understanding.[179]
From: Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu
(1) This refers to individuals with knowledge or wisdom who designate the last part of youth as new youth.[180] (2) An individual who chooses to take shelter of those with similar qualities, aiming for the prosperity of his family.[181] (3) Individuals who possess knowledge and insight, particularly regarding spiritual practices.[182]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) individuals recognized for their wisdom, of which Gopa-kumara is regarded as the best[183]
From: Prem Sagar (English translation)
(1) Individuals who perceive life and death similarly, highlighting a philosophical aspect of the narrative.[184]
From: Tiruvaymoli (Thiruvaimozhi): English translation
(1) The guise taken by Vishnu as Buddha, under which he preached morals and veered the Asuras from their destructive ways.[185]
From: Yoga-sutras (with Vyasa and Vachaspati Mishra)
(1) An individual who has achieved a state of knowledge that frees them from the cycle of birth and death, as their desires have been extinguished.[186] (2) A person who has attained knowledge about the cyclical nature of life and death and has developed verbal and inferential understanding, yet may still experience fear of death.[187] (3) An individual who has the insight to relinquish desires, gaining bliss and wisdom that transcends aging and ignorance.[188] (4) An individual who meditates upon the divine, discarding external symbols and focusing on the intrinsic nature of the Lord.[189] (5) A person who has achieved freedom from actions and afflictions, characterized as 'jivanmukta' or liberated while alive.[190]
From: Yoga-sutras (Ancient and Modern Interpretations)
(1) A person who integrates their speech, mind, intellect, and soul towards attaining a peaceful higher self, as stated in the Katha Upanishad.[191]
From: Shat-cakra-nirupana (the six bodily centres)
(1) Individuals who describe the expansive nature and significance of the abode of Shiva and its connection with various spiritual principles.[192]
From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)
(1) An enlightened individual who abstains from selfish aspirations for the benefit of others and aims to obtain perfect insight.[193] (2) A term used to describe individuals who are receptive to reason and advice, unlike the foolish Marubhuti.[194] (3) A person characterized by discretion and skill in political matters, contrasting with foolish actions of other characters.[195] (4) Vishnudatta, who acts thoughtfully and recognizes the implications of ignoring bad omens.[196] (5) A sage who provides prophecy regarding the futures of Govindasvamin's sons, foreshadowing their separation and reunion.[197]
From: Jarasandhavadha Mahakavyam
(1) Individuals considered learned and knowledgeable, representing reason and foresight in the text.[198]
From: Charaka Samhita (English translation)
(1) Individuals deemed knowledgeable and reliable, usually referred to in the context of approval of a particular medical text.[199] (2) Individuals with knowledge and expertise who suggest the root of turpeth as the optimal drug for purgation.[200] (3) An individual who makes informed decisions regarding diet and health, avoiding diseases through critical thinking.[201] (4) An individual who exercises judgment and discernment, particularly regarding the use of alcohol and its consequences.[202]
From: History of Indian Medicine (and Ayurveda)
(1) An individual, often regarded for their knowledge and experience, who offers guidance and support within the community.[203] (2) Respected and knowledgeable individuals whose approval is sought in the selection of medical texts.[204]
From: Sushruta Samhita, Volume 6: Uttara-tantra
(1) A person who values their life and is aware of the importance of responding to natural urges rather than repressing them.[205]
From: Parama Samhita (English translation)
(1) An individual who offers worship to the divine form conducive to human benefit and understanding.[206] (2) An enlightened individual who possesses deep understanding and lives according to spiritual principles.[207] (3) An individual who understands the importance of good conditions for the installation of a temple and avoids unfavorable circumstances.[208] (4) An individual who possesses knowledge and prudence, particularly in the context of spiritual practices.[209] (5) A person who contemplates and observes the timing of breaths and other signs to foresee potential evils.[210]
From: Vakyapadiya of Bhartrihari
(1) A person who exercises wisdom and careful reasoning in evaluating objects and ideas.[211] (2) A person who is knowledgeable and follows established definitions and understandings of complex or difficult concepts.[212]
From: Shaiva Upanishads (A Critical Study)
(1) An individual who, through acquiring knowledge, is able to eliminate sins and reach higher spiritual realms.[213] (2) Individuals who recognize the presence of the Supreme Being within their hearts and thus attain true understanding.[214]
From: Manasara (English translation)
(1) A knowledgeable figure responsible for interpreting omens and signs during the coronation, such as predicting the future welfare of the kingdom.[215]
From: Natyashastra (English)
(1) The group of sages including notable figures who inquired about the intricacies of the Natyaveda.[216]
Jain concept of 'Wise men'
In Jainism, Wise men are enlightened individuals with profound knowledge of spiritual truths, ethical conduct, and compassion, who evaluate life choices, avoid sinful actions, and strive for liberation and moral integrity while understanding the consequences of their actions.
From: Acaranga-sutra
(1) An individual who understands the implications of actions on the earth-bodies and renounces sinful behavior.[217] (2) A person who has heard and understood the teachings of the learned ones.[218] (3) An individual who possesses knowledge and understanding, especially about the life cycle.[219] (4) An individual who understands and adheres to truths, applying wisdom in life to overcome challenges and distractions.[220] (5) An individual who has attained knowledge and understanding, particularly in relation to ethical behavior towards fire and living beings.[221]
From: Sutrakritanga (English translation)
(1) A person who understands the nature of suffering and does not attribute it to oneself or others, recognizing a larger, impersonal cause.[222] (2) An individual who understands the Law and recognizes that all beings desire happiness, acting with compassion towards all living entities.[223] (3) An enlightened individual who understands the nature of sin and avoids accumulating karma by refraining from new actions.[224] (4) Individuals recognized for their understanding and adherence to the teachings that lead to liberation.[225] (5) An enlightened individual who recognizes the importance of not causing harm to others and practicing self-control.[226]
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) A person characterized by discernment and understanding, particularly in relation to the spiritual journey.[227] (2) A person who understands and applies the principles of samvara, aiming to reach a state beyond existential suffering.[228] (3) An enlightened individual who is capable of discerning true value from what is considered worthless.[229] (4) Individuals who engage in gambling simply for enjoyment rather than becoming enamored or addicted to it, contrasting Nala's fate.[230] (5) Individuals noted for their knowledge, particularly in the context of the fourteen Purvas, which denote ancient scriptures.[231]
From: Uttaradhyayana Sutra
(1) An individual who understands the nature of Leshyas and strives to develop positive forms while avoiding the negative ones.[232] (2) A knowledgeable individual who acts meekly, accepts guidance graciously, and avoids anger.[233] (3) An individual who possesses knowledge and understanding, and is cautious in their interactions.[234] (4) An individual who evaluates life choices, practices compassion, and remains calm at the time of death.[235] (5) An individual who seeks the truth and reflects on the paths of bondage and birth while being kind to all creatures.[236]
From: Yogadrstisamuccaya of Haribhadra Suri (Study)
(1) Individuals who possess deep knowledge and understanding, particularly regarding the nature of spiritual truths.[237] (2) Individuals who seek blessings from their God or Guru before embarking on auspicious activities to stall incoming obstacles or find solutions.[238]
The concept of Wise men in local and regional sources
Wise men are individuals characterized by knowledge, wisdom, and understanding, often providing valuable insights. They achieve enlightenment through stories, uphold spiritual values, and are sought for guidance, balancing material success with spiritual fulfillment.
From: Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints
(1) Individuals who are knowledgeable and prudent, highlighted in the context of not giving instructions without proper assessment of the disciple.[239] (2) Individuals recognized for their great knowledge, experience, and sound judgment.[240] (3) A person characterized by wisdom, capable of discerning where to place objects of significance.[241] (4) A knowledgeable and enlightened person, associated with spiritual understanding.[242] (5) Individuals who possess knowledge and discernment, encouraged to focus their love and attention spiritually.[243]
From: Triveni Journal
(1) An individual who can perceive the positive aspects of challenges and utilizes them for growth.[244] (2) Individuals who possess high moral and intellectual qualities, capable of leading humanity in the right way, as indicated by Plato.[245]
From: Folklore of the Santal Parganas
(1) Individuals who possess knowledge and can offer valuable advice, whom the Prince inquires about during his journey.[246]