Darsana (Noun)
Meaning
(from the Sanskrit word for `to see') one of six orthodox philosophical systems or viewpoints on the nature of reality and the release from bondage to karma.
Classification
Nouns denoting cognitive processes and contents.
Examples
- The Nyaya darsana is an ancient school of Hindu philosophy that focuses on logic and epistemology in order to understand reality.
- The Yoga darsana, as systematized by Patanjali, aims to unite the self with universal consciousness through meditation and spiritual practices.
- Arya Samaj, a Hindu reform movement, accepts the authority of the Vedas and incorporates elements from different darsanas to create a cohesive worldview.
- Since darsanas often disagreed on fundamental issues, they presented their views in publicly debated scholarly discussions, in order to establish the supremacy of their ideas.
- In Hindu tradition, one darsana does not supersede or cancel another; instead, each fills a distinct niche within a complex universe of perspectives.