Significance of Self-examination
Self-examination is a critical introspective practice highlighted across various contexts, including Buddhism, Purana, Mahayana, Theravada, and Indian history. In Buddhism, it helps individuals understand their thoughts and align with teachings, while Purana emphasizes deeper spiritual connections. Mahayana and Theravada focus on moral reflection and personal growth. Additionally, historical figures like Gandhiji exemplified this process as essential for character development. In the scientific realm, self-examination applies to health practices for early cancer detection, showcasing its importance in both personal and communal aspects of life.
Synonyms: Self-reflection, Introspection, Self-assessment, Self-analysis, Soul-searching, Contemplation, Self-appraisal, Self-inspection
In Dutch: Zelfonderzoek; In Finnish: Itsetutkiskelu; In Spanish: Autoexamen; In German: Selbstuntersuchung; In Malay: Pemeriksaan diri; In Swedish: ³§Âáä±ô±¹°ù²¹²Ô²Ô²õ²¹°ì²¹²Ô; In French: Auto-examen
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Self-examination'
Self-examination in Buddhism is the introspective process of reflecting on one's thoughts, actions, and moral state to facilitate personal growth, ethical behavior, and identify negative qualities, ultimately aligning oneself with Buddhist teachings.
From: Guide to Tipitaka
(1) The process of reflecting on one’s own moral and mental state to identify undesirable qualities such as covetousness or anger.[1]
From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) The process of introspection, crucial for personal growth and ethical behavior as taught in the narrative.[2]
From: Bodhinyana
(1) The practice of introspection to understand one's own thoughts, feelings, and motivations, which is essential for personal growth and alleviating doubt.[3] (2) The process of introspection where one critically observes their own thoughts, feelings, and intentions.[4]
From: Shurangama Sutra (with commentary) (English)
(1) The process of reflecting on one's actions and thoughts, which is critical for aligning with Buddhist teachings.[5]
Hindu concept of 'Self-examination'
In Hinduism, self-examination, or tarka, encompasses introspection and reflection, facilitating deeper awareness and spiritual insight during yoga practice, ultimately enhancing one’s connection to the universe and personal understanding.
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) The process of introspection and reflection that leads to a deeper understanding of one's spirit and connection to the universe.[6]
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) Described as tarka; it involves reflecting on oneself to achieve higher states of awareness and insight during yoga practice.[7]
The concept of Self-examination in local and regional sources
Self-examination encompasses the introspective analysis of thoughts and feelings, vital for personal growth, spiritual devotion, and moral integrity, as illustrated in various literary and philosophical contexts, aiding in self-realization and alignment with ethical principles.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) The process of introspectively analyzing one's thoughts, feelings, and motivations.[8] (2) One of the aids to cultivate devotion as discussed in the book on Bhakti Yoga.[9] (3) The process of introspection and reflection on one's thoughts, beliefs, and behaviors.[10] (4) The personal reflection necessary to align oneself with the principles of Dharma and the teachings of the Gita.[11] (5) The reflective process undertaken by Sammy in 'Free Fall', leading to deep personal understanding and self-realization.[12]
The concept of Self-examination in scientific sources
Self-examination is a proactive approach for early breast cancer detection. It involves individuals regularly inspecting their own breasts, enabling timely identification of potential abnormalities and promoting awareness of breast health.
From: The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences
(1) A recommended practice encouraging individuals to regularly check for early warning signs of oral cancer, aimed at improving early diagnosis.[13] (2) A personal method for preliminary breast cancer detection involving the regular manual inspection of one's own breasts.[14]