prajña

Prajña is a Sanskrit term commonly translated as wisdom, discernment, or insightful understanding. It is formed from pra- (“forth, forward”) and jñā (“to know”) and is used in Hindu and Buddhist traditions to denote a kind of knowledge that sees the true nature of reality rather than mere facts. In a general sense, prajña implies clear discrimination, insight, and integrated wisdom that guides conduct.

In Hindu philosophy, prajña appears in diverse contexts. In Advaita Vedanta, it is associated with the direct realization of nonduality, where the individual’s apparent separateness dissolves and the self (atman) is understood to be non-different from ultimate reality (Brahman). In other schools of Hindu thought, prajña can denote deep understanding attained through study, contemplation, and practice, and it is often linked to the awakening of spiritual insight rather than routine knowledge alone.

In Buddhism, prajña (Pali paññā) is a central concept meaning the wisdom that penetrates the true nature of phenomena, including impermanence, suffering, and non-self. It is a key component of the path to awakening and is elaborated in the Mahayana tradition as the perfection of wisdom (prajñā-pāramitā). Prajñā in Theravada contexts emphasizes discernment and practical insight useful for liberation.

Across traditions, prajña is often contrasted with ordinary knowledge or intellect, being rooted in experiential insight and realization. It is commonly associated with enlightened or awakened states and is frequently invoked in Buddhist and Hindu mediation and contemplative contexts.