paravidya
|pa-ra-vi-dya|
/ˌpærəˈvɪdjə/
higher / transcendent knowledge
Etymology
'paravidya' originates from Sanskrit, specifically the word 'para-vidyā', where 'para' meant 'beyond, higher' and 'vidyā' meant 'knowledge'.
'paravidya' entered English usage through Sanskrit scholarship and translations of Vedantic texts in the 18th–19th centuries; the transliterated form 'paravidya' (or 'para-vidyā') was adopted into English religious and philosophical vocabulary.
Initially, it meant 'higher or transcendent knowledge' in classical Sanskrit usage, and over time it has largely retained that sense; in English use it commonly denotes 'spiritual knowledge of ultimate reality (Brahman)'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
higher or supreme knowledge — spiritual, transcendental knowledge of the ultimate reality (Brahman) as described in Vedantic texts.
In Advaita Vedanta, paravidya is the knowledge that leads to realization of Brahman.
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Noun 2
specifically, the body of metaphysical teachings or direct, revealed insight (as opposed to secular or practical sciences) regarded as liberating knowledge.
Classical commentaries distinguish paravidya (liberating wisdom) from aparavidya (worldly learning).
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Last updated: 2025/12/02 05:59