विवेक
Vivek
(viveka)Discernment; the ability to distinguish real from unreal, truth from illusion
Full Meaning
Viveka is the most important quality in Advaita Vedānta — the discriminative intelligence that separates the eternal (Brahman) from the temporary (everything else). Without viveka, all knowledge is accumulation without wisdom. Swami Vivekananda took his name from this quality: the one who has viveka — clear discrimination.
Etymology
Vi (distinctly, apart) + √vic (to separate, to distinguish, to discern). Clear separation of reality from appearance.
Usage in Sanskrit Texts
Adi Shankaracharya's Vivekacūḍāmaṇi (Crest Jewel of Discrimination) is one of the most important texts on Advaita Vedānta, dedicated entirely to cultivating viveka.
विवेकजं ज्ञानं — Knowledge born of discrimination. The wisdom that liberates.
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