Significance of Wise men
Synonyms: Learned men, Intelligent men, Gurus
In Dutch: Wijze mannen; In Finnish: Viisaat miehet; In Spanish: Hombres sabios; In German: Weise Männer; In Malay: Orang bijak pandai; In Swedish: Kloka män; In French: Les sages; In Italian: I saggi; In Polish: Mędrcy; In Portugese: Homens sábios
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" refers to virtuous individuals who embody wisdom, understanding, and moral principles. They actively practice the Dharma, engage in self-restraint, and possess discernment, leading to enlightenment and ethical living.
From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) These are individuals who possess knowledge, understanding, and discernment, making sound judgments and acting in accordance with wisdom and ethical principles.[1] (2) Wise men despise liars, according to the king's stanza about the importance of keeping promises.[2] (3) People who value patience as the highest in degree and understand the importance of enduring harsh speech.[3] (4) Individuals who critically observe and scrutinize boastful behaviors and empty promises.[4] (5) Referred to Rama-pandita, who exemplifies intelligence and understanding in contrast to his grieving siblings.[5]
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) The wise man is an individual who possesses insight and understanding, and is moving forward on the path of spirituality.[6] (2) A person who maintains an understanding of truth without claiming absolute knowledge, as advised by the Buddha.[7] (3) Individuals whose admonitions are to be heeded for resisting temptations and achieving restraint.[8] (4) An individual possessing a deep understanding of moral and ethical principles and capable of making sound decisions.[9] (5) A person of wisdom who actively engages in good deeds and self-improvement, as emphasized by the Buddha in the verse.[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: Guide to Tipitaka
(1) A person known by his conduct in deed, word, and thought, akin to the identification of a fool.[31]
From: Patipada (path of practice)
(1) These are the individuals who are afraid of the bad results of their actions, and have always taught that one should be afraid of evil.[32]
From: Milindapanha (questions of King Milinda)
(1) The Bodisat's form as Vidhura, during Devadatta's attempt to conquer the world.[33]
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) An individual who does not believe in gods and understands the principles of Buddhism.[34] (2) Refers to a perceptive person who understands the impermanence of life and values generous actions.[35] (3) Individuals whom the king of Magadha consulted regarding the troubles in the city; included panditas.[36] (4) Describes an individual who does not believe in the gods and understands the nature of life's actions and consequences.[37] (5) A person (vijna) who cannot refute the Dharma.[38]
From: Mahavastu (great story)
(1) When the child had entered the royal palace, the king bade his priest fetch at once the wise men who were skilled in the rules and significance of signs, according to the text.[39] (2) This term is used to describe the Bodhisattva, highlighting the qualities associated with this term, who has always and everywhere to know, attain, become aware of, become fully aware of.[40] (3) The text refers to those who possess knowledge and understanding, suggesting wisdom and insight.[41] (4) An individual who refrains from asking for alms and maintains a sense of dignity and self-restraint.[42] (5) A person who does not seek worldly gains despite losing wealth and who lives free from wrongdoing.[43]
From: Abhidharmakośa
(1) The contents of Chapter 9 are summarized for intelligent persons, suggesting that only the wise will understand and accept the teachings.[44]
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.[45]
From: Tattvasangraha [with commentary]
(1) Individuals characterized by their intelligence and understanding, who are capable of discerning truth through thorough testing.[46] (2) A person of discernment who recognizes that what possesses good qualities cannot be easily forsaken or altered.[47] (3) Individuals who are learned and knowledgeable, highly regarding the pure teaching.[48] (4) Individuals who hold specific philosophical views, particularly those identified as Idealist Buddhists, reflecting a perspective on the nature of conceptual thought and reality.[49] (5) The wise men refer to Buddhists who have declared certain philosophical views regarding knowledge and perception.[50]
From: Blue Annals (deb-ther sngon-po)
(1) A wise man is what Rin po che grags ye became known as, because of his ability to learn texts by heart after reading them only once.[51] (2) A term describing jo ston dbang phyug grags, the author of the life story and a respected teacher in Tibetan culture.[52] (3) Individuals characterized by their understanding and practice of the Dharma, who experience joy and enlightenment through the teachings.[53]
From: Apadana commentary (Atthakatha)
(1) People that should be approached without avoiding anyone among inferiors, equals and superiors.[54] (2) The wise man Araka is one of the forms the Bodhisat took while fulfilling the perfections.[55] (3) An individual who seeks to attain independence and spiritual growth by isolating from worldly distractions.[56] (4) 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.[57]
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.[58] (2) A person who understands the dangers of lust and desire, making choices to avoid them for peace.[59]
Hindu concept of 'Wise men'
In Hinduism, "Wise men" are enlightened individuals with deep knowledge, experience, and spiritual insight. They guide others through discourse, embody virtues, and pursue higher understanding while remaining connected to divinity, ethics, and the self.
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) The text suggests that the presence of many wise men can cause distrust in a king's mind, indicating a potential threat to the king's authority or a challenge to his decisions.[60] (2) This individual would not approve of someone who violates the rules of fairness, indicating the importance of ethical conduct and adherence to principles.[61] (3) They know Drona's son for a coward and a sinful wretch, always engaged in sinful acts.[62] (4) Parasara is referred to as the foremost of wise men, and he is also acquainted with the higher regions, according to the text.[63] (5) This individual knows the origin and end of all creatures, and by reflecting upon the matter, gradually obtains infinite happiness, and knows the Soul.[64]
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) They see the minds of others and all things to rise in their minds, like the wave rising in the sea.[65] (2) Let these resort to and rest at that place, where all meet in union in one self-shining unity.[66] (3) Wise men are said to cause the mist of ignorance to fly like clouds, and their presence purifies desires.[67] (4) He avoids the ignorant and focuses on inner purity rather than external rites and ceremonies.[68] (5) This person's life flows onward with the undulations of events without overflowing its banks, resembling a river drawn in a picture that is flowing without the current of its waters.[69]
From: Markandeya Purana
(1) A reference to the moral character expected of individuals, particularly in the context of self-preservation and ethics.[70] (2) A person who conducts rituals and offerings mindfully and with respect towards traditions.[71] (3) People who are knowledgeable but may not always act justly or mercifully.[72] (4) A person acknowledged for their knowledge and sound judgment.[73] (5) An individual who understands the spiritual teachings and performs acts of reverence, recommended to uphold righteousness and gain benefits.[74]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Shastri)
(1) Individuals, particularly the brahmins, who possess deep knowledge of customs, ethics, and divine laws.[75] (2) A reference to the sagely advice against giving one's daughter to a warrior, reflecting on choices in relationships.[76] (3) A person of wisdom who reflects upon moral actions and the consequences of harming others.[77] (4) Individuals who are knowledgeable and discerning, recommended to recite the Ramayana to share its teachings.[78] (5) The assembly members who are knowledgeable and supportive of Bharata's quest to bring back Rama.[79]
From: Garuda Purana
(1) An intelligent or discerning individual known for good judgment.[80] (2) An individual who acts with careful judgment and preserves what is trustworthy.[81] (3) An individual with deep knowledge and experience who imparts valuable lessons without necessity for material wealth.[82] (4) Individuals who exercise prudence and act with foresight, considering the outcomes of their actions based on both expediency and morality.[83] (5) A person who is prudent and discerning in their actions and relationships.[84]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) A source of guidance and shelter that the King had not sought, leading to his suffering and lamentation over the loss of his wife.[85] (2) Individuals who have deep knowledge and understanding as recognized in the Vedas, Puranas, and other Sastras.[86] (3) Individuals whose teachings satisfy the organ of hearing with profound words of wisdom.[87] (4) Individuals who rely on observable evidence rather than assumptions, specifically regarding the powers of Shumbha.[88]
From: Laghu-yoga-vasistha
(1) Individuals who possess true knowledge and understanding, capable of guiding and enlightening others.[89] (2) Individuals who maintain tranquility and joy despite challenging circumstances.[90]
From: Sanatsujatiya (English translation)
(1) A person characterized by wisdom, understanding, and the ability to act appropriately based on that knowledge.[91] (2) An individual who, through understanding, embodies tranquility and the ability to perceive the deeper essence of existence.[92]
From: Gautami Mahatmya
(1) Individuals who act intelligently by balancing self-interest with respect and maintaining prestige.[93] (2) Individuals depicted in the text who understand the implications of taking back offerings and embody wisdom.[94]
From: Vishnu Purana
(1) A person who comprehends and values spiritual truths, often understood through the wisdom of Vishnu.[95] (2) An individual characterized by sound judgment and being cautious in actions.[96]
From: Anugita (English translation)
(1) An individual who, by understanding the truth and being devoid of egoism, achieves liberation.[97]
From: Nilamata Purana
(1) An individual who wisely assembles specific items for the pacification and welfare rites of horses.[98]
From: Bhagavadgita
(1) An individual who acts without attachment, serving as a role model for others while fulfilling their duties.[99]
From: Bhagavad-gita-rahasya (or Karma-yoga Shastra)
(1) It raises the question of whether we shall call this person or a fool if somebody showers charity on each and every one alike, that is to say, without considering their respective merits.[100]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad Bhashya Vartika
(1) The text mentions that the question of whether a wise man attains Brahman after departing will be addressed, implying the wise man attains Brahman.[101] (2) An individual who recognizes Brahman and thus achieves fearlessness.[102] (3) A person who possesses knowledge and understanding, specifically in relation to attaining Brahman.[103] (4) A person who has deep knowledge or understanding, particularly in relation to knowing oneself and the concept of Brahman.[104] (5) Refers to an enlightened individual who understands the deeper truths of existence, reflecting on the nature of the self in relation to the world.[105]
From: Vivekachudamani
(1) This individual understands the infinite Brahman in their heart, which is devoid of the ideas of cause and effect, beyond all imaginations, homogeneous, matchless, beyond the range of proofs, established by the pronouncements of the Vedas, and ever familiar to us.[106] (2) An individual who has achieved self-realization and understands the nature of Brahman through deep meditation.[107] (3) An individual who possesses knowledge and understanding, expected to recognize and stop the superimposition of non-Self.[108] (4) 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.[109] (5) An enlightened individual who understands and attains knowledge of Brahman, leading to Liberation.[110]
From: Mandukya Upanishad (Gaudapa Karika and Shankara Bhashya)
(1) An enlightened individual who perceives everything as Brahman, discerning truth beyond personal opinions.[111] (2) An individual who is established in the knowledge of non-duality and does not publicly proclaim their enlightened state.[112] (3) Individuals who have attained knowledge of the true nature of reality, particularly in the context of Vedanta philosophy.[113] (4) A person who perceives equality and sameness in all beings and maintains an even perspective towards all, without attachment to differences.[114] (5) An individual who understands the non-duality of Atman and does not engage in rituals or actions motivated by external desires.[115]
From: Thirty minor Upanishads
(1) This person should observe the described practices to obtain Absolution, as instructed in the provided text.[116] (2) A wise man is someone who recognizes the identity of Brahman as the self, thus escaping the inevitability of death.[117] (3) A person who conducts himself with the innocence and nature of a child, embodying qualities like silence, wisdom, and blamelessness.[118] (4) An individual who has attained profound knowledge and understanding of Brahman and the nature of existence.[119] (5) A person who possesses deep understanding and knowledge, especially in spiritual matters.[120]
From: Brahma Sutras (Shankaracharya)
(1) A wise man is someone who is encouraged to keep down speech and mind to achieve pious meditation for knowing the highest person.[121] (2) An individual who seeks immortality and, through inner reflection, perceives the Self within.[122] (3) An enlightened individual who transcends name and form to unite with the divine Person.[123] (4) An individual who has attained wisdom and freedom from the limitations imposed by material desires and identities.[124]
From: Brahma Sutras (Ramanuja)
(1) An individual who practices control over their senses and faculties to attain spiritual insight and realization.[125] (2) An enlightened individual who seeks the Supreme Lord as the highest goal and is dear to Him.[126] (3) An individual who has attained enlightenment and understands the nature of reality, resulting in freedom from name and form.[127] (4) An enlightened individual who understands the transient nature of life and seeks liberation by uniting with the divine.[128]
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.[129] (2) An individual who has transcended the duality of attachment and aversion, embodying a sense of understanding and freedom.[130] (3) An individual who understands the nature of reality and remains unaffected by worldly experiences.[131] (4) An enlightened individual who recognizes the equality of experiences, cultivating neutrality towards pleasure and pain.[132]
From: Chandogya Upanishad (Shankara Bhashya)
(1) In the matter of the connection between the said Volition and the ultimate result, the wise man does attain the position of God.[133] (2) An enlightened individual who understands the deeper truths of existence and the self.[134] (3) An individual who perceives the unity of all existence through the understanding of the Self, leading to profound realizations and connection with the Infinite.[135]
From: Kaivalya Upanishad
(1) The wise man, abiding in the truth, naturally drives away all further untruth and sins, which is made possible through the wisdom that comes with truth and understanding of the Absolute.[136] (2) A sage who seeks Truth and is willing to endure the trials of knowledge acquisition, ultimately liberating himself from ignorance and its bonds.[137]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad
(1) The wise man is questioned about attaining Brahman, with the shruti proceeding to answer this question in the sequel.[138] (2) The provided text tries to prove that it is the wise man, not the ignorant one, who attains Brahman.[139]
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.[140]
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.[141]
From: Kathopanishad (Madhva commentary)
(1) A person who understands spiritual teachings and works towards self-realization and enlightenment.[142]
From: Katha Upanishad with Shankara’s Commentary
(1) An individual characterized by wisdom, particularly in understanding the nature of reality and existence.[143]
From: Brihadaranyaka Upanishad
(1) The wise men, versed in the Vedas, sip water before and after eating, and they regard it as removing the nakedness of the vital force, as described in the provided text.[144]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) The provided material suggests a person who avoids taking oaths improperly, understanding the potential negative consequences.[145] (2) An individual who understands the scriptures and moral laws, and is therefore unlikely to commit acts of violence.[146] (3) A knowledgeable individual who understands the impropriety of accepting gifts that could imply a transaction in marriage.[147] (4) An individual who is prudent in making decisions about marriage, particularly in choosing a partner of appropriate age.[148] (5) An individual recognized for their wisdom and knowledge, deserving of respect.[149]
From: Apastamba Dharma-sutra
(1) An individual who has successfully eliminated destructive faults and consequently gains freedom or salvation.[150] (2) An individual who seeks the knowledge of the Atman while dismissing sensory objects in the worldly realm.[151] (3) Individuals who are knowledgeable and whose actions are praised by those of the three twice-born castes.[152]
From: Baudhayana Dharmasutra
(1) A person who should practice restraints to purify their physical form.[153] (2) An individual regarded for their intelligence and prudence, particularly in avoiding corruption of the mind while performing duties.[154]
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.[155] (2) Individuals who are perceived to be intelligent and trusted by kings to deal with potential plots or dangers.[156] (3) A figure characterized by self-restraint and understanding of life’s transient nature.[157] (4) Individuals known for their cautious and thoughtful planning to avoid misfortune.[158] (5) Individuals who prioritize wisdom over pleasure, indicating the value of having knowledge and insight.[159]
From: Kautilya Arthashastra
(1) Individuals with great knowledge and experience who can provide valuable counsel.[160] (2) An individual, including a child, whose sensible insights the king is encouraged to heed during consultations.[161]
From: Shukra Niti by Shukracharya
(1) A person characterized by intelligence and moral rectitude, who governs their actions thoughtfully.[162]
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.[163] (2) A wise man knows the entire material world is a dream.[164] (3) Individuals who possess deep knowledge and understanding.[165] (4) A learned individual who possesses knowledge and understanding.[166]
From: Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu
(1) This refers to individuals with knowledge or wisdom who designate the last part of youth as new youth.[167] (2) An individual who chooses to take shelter of those with similar qualities, aiming for the prosperity of his family.[168] (3) Individuals who possess knowledge and insight, particularly regarding spiritual practices.[169]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) individuals recognized for their wisdom, of which Gopa-kumara is regarded as the best[170]
From: Prem Sagar (English translation)
(1) Individuals who perceive life and death similarly, highlighting a philosophical aspect of the narrative.[171]
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.[172]
From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)
(1) This is the description used for Vidushaka when he is trying to devise a plan to find Bhadra after she disappears.[173] (2) Wise men of firm nature should not cleave to females but should practice chastity, according to the king of parrots.[174] (3) An enlightened individual who abstains from selfish aspirations for the benefit of others and aims to obtain perfect insight.[175] (4) A term used to describe individuals who are receptive to reason and advice, unlike the foolish Marubhuti.[176] (5) A person characterized by discretion and skill in political matters, contrasting with foolish actions of other characters.[177]
From: Charaka Samhita (English translation)
(1) Individuals deemed knowledgeable and reliable, usually referred to in the context of approval of a particular medical text.[178] (2) Individuals with knowledge and expertise who suggest the root of turpeth as the optimal drug for purgation.[179] (3) An individual who makes informed decisions regarding diet and health, avoiding diseases through critical thinking.[180] (4) An individual who exercises judgment and discernment, particularly regarding the use of alcohol and its consequences.[181]
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.[182] (2) Respected and knowledgeable individuals whose approval is sought in the selection of medical texts.[183]
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.[184]
From: Journal of Ayurveda and Integrated Medical Sciences
(1) Acharya Charaka also said that for a wise man entire universe is act as a preceptor.[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: 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.[191]
From: Parama Samhita (English translation)
(1) An individual who offers worship to the divine form conducive to human benefit and understanding.[192] (2) An enlightened individual who possesses deep understanding and lives according to spiritual principles.[193] (3) An individual who understands the importance of good conditions for the installation of a temple and avoids unfavorable circumstances.[194] (4) An individual who possesses knowledge and prudence, particularly in the context of spiritual practices.[195] (5) A person who contemplates and observes the timing of breaths and other signs to foresee potential evils.[196]
From: Vakyapadiya of Bhartrihari
(1) A person who exercises wisdom and careful reasoning in evaluating objects and ideas.[197] (2) A person who is knowledgeable and follows established definitions and understandings of complex or difficult concepts.[198]
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.[199]
From: Natyashastra (English)
(1) The group of sages including notable figures who inquired about the intricacies of the Natyaveda.[200]
From: Hayanaratna: The Jewel of Annual Astrology
(1) An individual with knowledge who should judge the outcomes in a specific year, considering the planetary positions at the time the question was asked and interpreting the celestial influences.[201]
Jain concept of 'Wise men'
In Jainism, Wise men are individuals characterized by profound understanding of existence and morality, practicing self-restraint, recognizing the transient nature of life, and striving for spiritual liberation through ethical behavior and compassion towards all beings.
From: Acaranga-sutra
(1) A wise man's ability to enter, leave, learn, question, repeat, consider, or think about the substance of the law can be hindered by a crowded assembly.[202] (2) He knows the world and has cast off the idea of the world.[203] (3) This individual should lead the life of an ascetic by collecting pure alms or any alms in all sorts of families, as part of the religious practice.[204] (4) An individual who understands the implications of actions on the earth-bodies and renounces sinful behavior.[205] (5) A person who has heard and understood the teachings of the learned ones.[206]
From: Sutrakritanga (English translation)
(1) This is a person who gets beyond misery by knowing the sins of the world and getting rid of sinful acts.[207] (2) A person who understands the nature of suffering and does not attribute it to oneself or others, recognizing a larger, impersonal cause.[208] (3) An individual who understands the Law and recognizes that all beings desire happiness, acting with compassion towards all living entities.[209] (4) An enlightened individual who recognizes the importance of not causing harm to others and practicing self-control.[210] (5) An individual characterized by deep understanding and knowledge, adhering to the path of wisdom, control, and the observance of the Law.[211]
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) A person characterized by discernment and understanding, particularly in relation to the spiritual journey.[212] (2) A person who understands and applies the principles of samvara, aiming to reach a state beyond existential suffering.[213] (3) An enlightened individual who is capable of discerning true value from what is considered worthless.[214] (4) Individuals who engage in gambling simply for enjoyment rather than becoming enamored or addicted to it, contrasting Nala's fate.[215] (5) Individuals noted for their knowledge, particularly in the context of the fourteen Purvas, which denote ancient scriptures.[216]
From: Uttaradhyayana Sutra
(1) An individual who understands the nature of Leshyas and strives to develop positive forms while avoiding the negative ones.[217] (2) A knowledgeable individual who acts meekly, accepts guidance graciously, and avoids anger.[218] (3) An individual who possesses knowledge and understanding, and is cautious in their interactions.[219] (4) An individual who evaluates life choices, practices compassion, and remains calm at the time of death.[220] (5) An individual who seeks the truth and reflects on the paths of bondage and birth while being kind to all creatures.[221]
From: Naladiyar
(1) Individuals who do not seek happiness in unstable joy. They understand its nature and do not value it.[222]
The concept of Wise men in local and regional sources
The term "Wise men" encompasses individuals recognized for their knowledge, sound judgment, and moral integrity. They provide guidance, possess deep insights, and are often sought after for their understanding of complex life concepts, as depicted in the text.
From: Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints
(1) A wise man is asked to show the power of God's name at a particular time, demonstrating understanding and capability.[223] (2) Janardanpant, also known as Janardana-Pant, was described as a person who possessed an extraordinary level of wisdom, according to the narrative provided within the text.[224] (3) Wise men are individuals who possess knowledge, experience, and sound judgment, often sought for their guidance and insights.[225] (4) Individuals who are knowledgeable and prudent, highlighted in the context of not giving instructions without proper assessment of the disciple.[226] (5) Individuals recognized for their great knowledge, experience, and sound judgment.[227]
From: Triveni Journal
(1) The text states that wise men are happy even with small things, which contrasts sharply with the fool, who is not pleased by anything, according to this description.[228] (2) An individual who understands the value of past experiences, whether they bring regret or enjoyment, and learns from them.[229] (3) Wise men have offered both insightful and foolish comments regarding Shakespeare, as mentioned in the text.[230] (4) This term denotes an individual who possesses a deep understanding of life, a capacity for sound judgment, and the ability to make wise decisions.[231] (5) Individuals who hoped for much and were disappointed when Gandhiji was born in the stable of Indian politics, questioning the need to give up mill-made cloth, forgo pleasures, and shirk shedding blood.[232]
From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda
(1) Individuals who are not involved in public displays of wonders for monetary gain, but rather seek truth and understanding.[233] (2) Someone who should be self-reliant and act independently, instead of depending on the assistance or direction of others in their endeavors.[234] (3) This is a man who acts and is beyond action, giving up all attachment to work, and is always satisfied, not hoping for gain.[235] (4) This person should achieve their object, highlighting the importance of taking action and working towards goals.[236] (5) The wise man is the one who enjoys the happiness of the world, and unlike the ignorant, he has to work for others unconsciously.[237]
From: Folklore of the Santal Parganas
(1) Individuals who possess knowledge and can offer valuable advice, whom the Prince inquires about during his journey.[238]
From: History of Science in South Asia
(1) This term refers to the individuals who possess knowledge of the spheres, and they are expected to understand the concepts described in the text.[239]
The concept of Wise men in scientific sources
Wise men in the text refers to individuals expected to understand that the eulogy is dedicated to the goddess Bharati, also known as Tripura.
From: Religions Journal (MDPI)
(1) The wise men should know that this eulogy is for the goddess Bharati, who is known as Tripura, according to the text.[240]
Classical concept of 'Wise men'
From: Ancient Egypt the Light of the World
(1) This was the knowledge that was in possession of the Wise Men, the Magi, the Zoroastrians, Jews, Gnostics, Essenes and others who kept the reckoning, read the signs, and knew the time at which the advent was to occur.[241] (2) The wise men, also described as 'magicians of Egypt,' possessed rods that transformed into serpents, symbolizing transformation, as indicated within the provided information.[242] (3) The Egyptians were profoundly well acquainted with those abnormal phenomena which are just re-emerging within the ken of modern science, and their rekhi or wise men, the pure spirits in both worlds, are primarily those who could enter the life of trance or transform into the state of spirits.[243]
From: Development of Religion and Thought in Ancient Egypt
(1) An individual who sagely admonishes to celebrate the feast of thy god and repeat his seasons.[244] (2) A leader of understanding more excellent than oneself, to whom one should bend arms and bow the back.[245] (3) The text mentions the names of some of the wise men of a thousand years before, whose sayings had become proverbial.[246]
From: Legends Of The Gods
(1) According to the text, voyages were made into Egypt by the wise men among the Greeks, such as Solo, Thales, Plato, Eudoxus, Pythagoras, and Lycurgus, who sought knowledge from the priests.[247] (2) His duty involves seeking divine assistance for all good things, particularly knowledge regarding the gods. This pursuit of knowledge is considered highly beneficial.[248]
From: Egyptian Magic
(1) An individual consulted by an old woman who had a pig that fell ill, leading to a ritual involving a sheep's heart and pins to counteract the perceived curse.[249]
From: Egypt Through The Stereoscope
(1) The wise men were summoned by King Zoser to provide insight into the gods of the Nile and the reasons behind the lack of inundation.[250]
From: The Literature of the Ancient Egyptians
(1) The text suggests that if thou dost humble thyself and dost obey a wise man, thy behaviour will be held to be good before God.[251]
From: The History of Herodotus
(1) After Melampus introduced the name of Dionysos and the phallos procession, the wise men who came after him made it known more at large, expanding on his initial teachings.[252] (2) The wise man was a Lydian who advised Crsus against marching against the Persians, and the name of the wise man was Sandanis, and he got a very great name for wisdom among the Lydians.[253] (3) The wise men of Hellas, including Solon the Athenian, came to Sardis during the height of its wealth, brought there by various occasions, signifying the city's intellectual appeal.[254]
From: The Nicomachean Ethics of Aristotle
(1) Men of no account do not expect to be friends with the best or wisest men because of the difference in merit.[255] (2) This person must not only know what follows from the first principles, but must also possess truth about the first principles. This person must be intuitive reason combined with scientific knowledge.[256]
From: The Odyssey of Homer (English translation)
(1) A person who can be made to fall to singing, chuckle, dance, and say many a word that he had better leave unspoken.[257]