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Prajna

Prajna is a Sanskrit term traditionally rendered as wisdom, discernment, or deep insight into the true nature of reality. Etymologically, it is formed from pra- “forth” and jnā “to know,” conveying knowledge that goes beyond ordinary understanding and reduces ignorance.

In Buddhism, prajna (Pāli paññā) signifies a central category of wisdom. In Theravada, paññā is one of

In Hindu philosophy, prajna generally denotes wisdom or discernment and is often contrasted with avidya (ignorance).

Beyond philosophical usage, prajna appears as a personal name in Indian and Buddhist communities. The term

the
five
spiritual
faculties
and
a
key
component
of
the
path,
cultivated
through
meditation
and
study
to
perceive
impermanence,
suffering,
and
non-self.
In
Mahayana,
prajna
becomes
the
insight
that
realizes
emptiness
(śūnyatā)
and
the
true
nature
of
phenomena;
it
is
closely
associated
with
the
Prajñāpāramitā
literature,
which
presents
the
perfection
of
wisdom
as
essential
for
enlightenment.
Texts
such
as
the
Heart
Sutra
and
Diamond
Sutra
explore
how
form
and
emptiness
interpenetrate
through
prajna.
It
is
linked
to
higher
knowledge
(jnana)
and
the
faculty
of
discrimination
(viveka)
that
leads
to
self-knowledge
and
liberation.
Different
schools
associate
prajna
with
the
intellect
(buddhi)
that
rightly
understands
the
self
(atman)
and
Brahman,
and
with
the
practical
insight
required
for
ethical
and
spiritual
discernment.
also
figures
in
modern
references
to
Prajñāparamita,
the
“perfection
of
wisdom”
in
Mahayana
thought.