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Significance of Brahman knowledge

Brahman knowledge, as discussed across various Hindu philosophical traditions, encompasses the understanding of the ultimate reality, which is essential for achieving liberation and transcending ignorance. It is regarded as the highest form of knowledge in Vedanta and referenced in texts like the Upanishads and the Natyashastra. This understanding reveals Brahman as the self-sufficient, all-knowing cosmic spirit, leading practitioners toward spiritual enlightenment and emancipation from the cycle of birth and rebirth. Brahman knowledge serves as a vital theme in the quest for ultimate truth within Indian philosophy.

Synonyms: Vedic knowledge, Spiritual knowledge, Divine knowledge, Transcendent knowledge, Metaphysical knowledge, Sacred wisdom, Vedanta, Divine wisdom, Spiritual enlightenment, Sacred knowledge, Ultimate reality, Cosmic truth

In Dutch: Brahman-kennis; In Finnish: Brahmanin tieto; In Spanish: Conocimiento de Brahman; In German: Brahmanisches Wissen

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Hindu concept of 'Brahman knowledge'

Hinduism Books

Brahman knowledge in Hinduism represents the profound understanding of the ultimate reality, essential for liberation and enlightenment, facilitating one's connection with the cosmic spirit and transcending ignorance and dualities through spiritual practices and grace.

Significance in Vedanta (school of philosophy):
Vedanta Books

From: Taittiriya Upanishad Bhashya Vartika

(1) The understanding or realization of Brahman, which is facilitated by the meditation on food.[1] (2) The ultimate knowledge that is revealed through vidya.[2] (3) The understanding and realization of Brahman, which can lead to liberation.[3] (4) It refers to the understanding and realization of Brahman, the ultimate reality or cosmic spirit, considered divine wealth.[4] (5) The understanding and comprehension of Brahman, which cannot be fully encapsulated or represented by a sentence.[5]

From: Brihadaranyaka Upanishad

(1) Knowledge of the Sutra and the Internal Ruler is equated with the understanding of Brahman, the Supreme Self.[6] (2) The realization and understanding of Brahman, which is essential for escaping the cycle of birth and rebirth.[7] (3) The wisdom that embodies the understanding of Brahman, leading to the ultimate realization of unity with all.[8]

From: Taittiriya Upanishad

(1) Understanding and realization of Brahman, which liberates one from the fear of sin and the effects of deeds.[9] (2) The understanding of Brahman that is acquired through contemplation and the recognition of food as a divine symbol.[10]

From: Brahma Sutras (Shankaracharya)

(1) The understanding or realization of Brahman, the ultimate reality or consciousness, which is highlighted as a critical goal within the ashrama teachings.[11] (2) The ultimate knowledge or realization pertaining to the nature of Brahman as presented in Scriptures.[12]

From: Kena upanishad (Madhva commentary)

(1) Understanding of the ultimate reality or consciousness as represented by Brahman in the text.[13] (2) The knowledge of Brahman is the ultimate subject matter of the Upanishads, which involves understanding the nature of the divine.[14]

From: Katha Upanishad with Shankara鈥檚 Commentary

(1) The understanding and realization of Brahman, which leads one to become immortal and free from taint.[15]

From: Thirty minor Upanishads

(1) Brahman knowledge pertains to the understanding of Brahman as the all-encompassing reality, leading to enlightenment and liberation.[16]

From: Mundaka Upanishad with Shankara鈥檚 Commentary

(1) The knowledge that pertains to Brahman, the ultimate reality, which leads to emancipation and is attained through the grace of a preceptor.[17]

From: Chandogya Upanishad (Shankara Bhashya)

(1) Understanding or realization of the ultimate reality, indicated by the Teacher's comments on the Boy's perception.[18]

Vedanta refers to a school of orthodox Hindu philosophy (astika), drawing its subject-matter from the Upanishads. There are a number of sub-schools of Vedanta, however all of them expound on the basic teaching of the ultimate reality (brahman) and liberation (moksha) of the individual soul (atman).

Significance in Purana and Itihasa (epic history):
Purana Books

From: Sanatsujatiya (English translation)

(1) A central theme in the Sanatsujatiya, indicating the notion of understanding the ultimate reality as essential for spiritual liberation.[19]

From: Bhagavad-gita-rahasya (or Karma-yoga Shastra)

(1) 'Brahman Knowledge' (brahma-jnana) refers to the understanding and realization of the ultimate reality or divine essence as described in the Upanishads, which is deemed necessary for true liberation.[20]

From: Harivamsha Purana

(1) Knowledge of Brahman pertains to the wisdom of the ultimate reality that encompasses the elements and existence.[21]

The Purana refers to Sanskrit literature preserving ancient India鈥檚 vast cultural history, including historical legends, religious ceremonies, various arts and sciences. The eighteen mahapuranas total over 400,000 shlokas (metrical couplets) and date to at least several centuries BCE.

Significance in Dharmashastra (religious law):
Dharmashastra Books

From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi

(1) The comprehension of Brahman (the ultimate reality) which is essential for Brahmanas involved in the Shraddha.[22]

Dharmashastra contains the instructions (shastra) regarding religious conduct of livelihood (dharma), ceremonies, jurisprudence (study of law) and more. It is categorized as smriti, an important and authoritative selection of books dealing with the Hindu lifestyle.

Significance in Vaishnavism (Vaishava dharma):
Vaishnavism Books

From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)

(1) The understanding of the ultimate reality, whose knowledge leads to transcending death, as stated in the Shvetashvatara Upanishad.[23]

Vaishnava or vaishnavism (vaishnavism) represents a tradition of Hinduism worshipping Vishnu as the supreme Lord. Similar to the Shaktism and Shaivism traditions, Vaishnavism also developed as an individual movement, famous for its exposition of the dashavatara (鈥榯en avatars of Vishnu鈥�).

Significance in Natyashastra (theatrics and dramaturgy):
Natyashastra Books

From: Natyashastra (English)

(1) The sacred understanding derived from Brahman, which is central to the practice and appreciation of the arts outlined in the Natyashastra.[24]

Natyashastra refers to both the ancient Indian tradition (shastra) of performing arts, (natya鈥攖heatrics, drama, dance, music), as well as the name of a Sanskrit work dealing with these subjects. It also teaches the rules for composing Dramatic plays (nataka), construction and performance of Theater, and Poetic works (kavya).

Significance in Shaktism (Shakta philosophy):
Shaktism Books

From: Shakti and Shakta

(1) Wisdom or understanding related to Brahman, the ultimate reality in Indian philosophy.[25]

Shakta or Shaktism (shaktism) represents a tradition of Hinduism where the Goddess (Devi) is revered and worshipped. Shakta literature includes a range of scriptures, including various Agamas and Tantras, although its roots may be traced back to the Vedas.

The concept of Brahman knowledge in local and regional sources

History Books

Brahman knowledge in Advaita Vedanta is viewed as an ultimate and purposeful understanding, emphasizing its intrinsic value rather than serving merely as a tool for achieving other goals.

Significance in India history and geography:

From: Triveni Journal

(1) A form of knowledge in Advaita Vedanta considered to be an end-in-itself, rather than a means to an end.[26]