Significance of External reality
External reality encompasses the world perceived outside an individual, often misinterpreted due to ignorance, and includes objects or concepts that exist independently of thought or perception. Different philosophical schools like Purana, Vyakarana, and Vedanta explore this notion by contrasting it with internal experiences and questioning the true existence of perceived forms. External reality is seen as a manifestation of observable effects and social conditions, though perspectives vary, with some philosophies suggesting it may merely represent illusions or dreams.
Synonyms: Objective reality, Physical reality, Real world, Tangible reality, External world, Material world, Tangible world
In Dutch: Externe realiteit; In Finnish: Ulkoinen todellisuus; In Spanish: Realidad externa; In German: Äußere Realität
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'External reality'
In Hinduism, External reality encompasses the sensory perception of the world, contrasting it with the internal mind. It refers to an independent existence beyond thought, often misunderstood, and challenges the idea of tangible reality due to subjective interpretations.
From: Vakyapadiya of Bhartrihari
(1) A notion referring to objects or concepts that exist independently outside of thought or perception.[1] (2) According to the Shunyavadins, external reality is negated, positing that what is perceived cannot have true existence, and suggests words may only express illusions or mere dreams.[2] (3) The notion of existence that is perceived outside of oneself, which is challenged by the understanding that all forms are unreal, like dreams.[3] (4) An interpretation of existence that acknowledges the visible forms and states derived from an underlying essence.[4] (5) External reality refers to the manifestation of effects or realities outside of the internal conceptual realm.[5]
From: Mandukya Upanishad (Madhva commentary)
(1) The notion that objects perceived during waking life share a common reality, while those in dreams are individualized to the dreamer.[6]
From: Mandukya Upanishad (Gaudapa Karika and Shankara Bhashya)
(1) The state of existence that is independent of the perceiving mind, contrasting with the subjective nature of imagined ideas.[7]
From: Mandukya Upanishad
(1) The actual world or environment that exists outside of one's perception or consciousness.[8]
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) The world as perceived through the senses, often contrasted with the internal experience of the mind.[9] (2) The perceived world outside an individual, often misinterpreted due to ignorance.[10]
The concept of External reality in local and regional sources
External reality encompasses the observable world and social conditions, which Pant intricately weaved into his poetry to enhance the depth of internal emotional experiences, blending external influences with personal sentiments for a richer narrative.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) The physical world, which Rumi suggests is a temporary illusion compared to the enduring essence of love and spirituality.[11] (2) The observable world and social conditions that Pant aimed to interlace with internal emotional experiences in his poetry.[12]