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Significance of Verbal testimony

Verbal testimony is a form of indirect knowledge in Jainism, signifying the importance of language and communication as a source of understanding. It is also recognized in Vyakarana, particularly by the Mimamsa schools, where it is known as 'shabda pramana.' This concept emphasizes the acceptance of spoken words as valid knowledge, especially if those words come from a trustworthy source. Verbal testimony, therefore, plays a critical role in knowledge acquisition across these philosophical contexts.

Synonyms: Oral evidence, Spoken account, Oral testimony

In Dutch: Mondelinge getuigenis; In Finnish: Suullinen todistus; In Spanish: Testimonio verbal; In German: Mündliche Zeugenaussage

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

Hindu concept of 'Verbal testimony'

Hinduism Books

In Hinduism, verbal testimony, or 'shabda pramana', is recognized as a valid source of knowledge, emphasizing the importance of trustworthy spoken words in acquiring understanding, particularly acknowledged by the Mimamsa schools.

Significance in Vedanta (school of philosophy):
Vedanta Books

From: Taittiriya Upanishad Bhashya Vartika

(1) The meaning derived from words used in a sentence, which conveys specific knowledge about Brahman.[1]

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: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4

(1) Sabda refers to information and knowledge acquired through spoken or written communication.[2]

The Purana refers to Sanskrit literature preserving ancient India’s 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.

Jain concept of 'Verbal testimony'

Jainism Books

Verbal testimony in Jainism signifies a form of indirect knowledge gained through language and communication, encompassing insights derived from scriptures, thereby enriching understanding and interpretation of spiritual teachings.

Significance in Jainism (general):

From: Tattvartha Sutra (with commentary)

(1) A type of indirect knowledge derived from language and communication, part of the broader category that includes scriptural knowledge.[3]

Jainism is an Indian religion of Dharma whose doctrine revolves around harmlessness (ahimsa) towards every living being. The two major branches (Digambara and Svetambara) of Jainism stimulate self-control (or, shramana, ‘self-reliance�) and spiritual development through a path of peace for the soul to progess to the ultimate goal.

The concept of Verbal testimony in local and regional sources

History Books

Verbal testimony is essential for knowledge acquisition in both human and animal learning, highlighting how spoken communication influences and facilitates behavior change effectively. It underscores the importance of oral communication in the learning process.

Significance in India history and geography:

From: Triveni Journal

(1) A crucial means of acquiring knowledge in human and animal learning, emphasizing the role of spoken words in behavior change.[4]