Significance of Empirical experience
Empirical experience, as defined in Tibetan Buddhism, Vedanta, Shaktism, and Shaivism, encompasses knowledge gained from personal observation and interaction with the world. In Tibetan Buddhism, it highlights personal insight, while Vedanta critiques it as an illusion distracting from the understanding of non-duality. Shaktism focuses on practical experiences through the senses, whereas Shaivism emphasizes experiential knowledge vital for self-purification. Overall, empirical experience underlines the subjective nature of perception, illustrating the need to distinguish between sensory experiences and deeper truths.
Synonyms: Practical experience, Experiential knowledge, Hands-on experience, Practical knowledge, Observational learning, Experiential learning, Direct observation
In Dutch: Empirische ervaring; In Finnish: Empiirinen kokemus; In Spanish: Experiencia empÃrica; In German: Empirische Erfahrung
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Empirical experience'
Empirical experience in Buddhism emphasizes knowledge acquired through personal observation and inquiry. It highlights the importance of direct experience in understanding truth, rather than relying solely on doctrine or authority.
From: Tattvasangraha [with commentary]
(1) Knowledge or insight gained from personal experience or observation, particularly in conducting inquiries.[1]
Hindu concept of 'Empirical experience'
Empirical experience in Hinduism highlights subjective, sensory perceptions of reality that, while practical, are seen as illusions leading to misunderstandings of ultimate truth and separation from non-duality, affecting self-purification and true knowledge.
From: Mandukya Upanishad (Gaudapa Karika and Shankara Bhashya)
(1) Empirical experiences are defined as the reality perceived through sensory experiences, which in this context leads to the misunderstanding of Atman being born.[2] (2) Knowledge gained through sensory perception that is seen as illusory and not representative of ultimate truth.[3] (3) Experiences that are based on perception and observation, which do not indicate true existence.[4] (4) Common experiences that give rise to the perception of variety in forms, functions, and names in the relative world.[5] (5) The subjective interactions and perceptions in the worldly realm, which create a sense of duality and separateness from the ultimate reality.[6]
From: Mandukya Upanishad
(1) Experience that is based on observation and experimentation, serving as the foundation for everything that originates.[7]
From: Shakti and Shakta
(1) Relates to practical experiences of the material world as perceived through the individual senses.[8]