BUDDHI or buddhi (from Sanskrit budh to wake up, be awake, to perceive, learn) is the intellectual aspect of mind (antahkarana) whose other aspects man and haumai are intertwined with it in close interrelationship. Its nearest English equivalent may be intellect. Man (Sanskrit manas) as the receptacle of sense impressions from sense organs, organizes them into precepts, yet it has doubt or indetermination about them. Buddhi defines and ascertains them and brings about definite and determinate cognition.
Man simply assimilates sense impressions; haumai (or ahankara) self appropriates the apperceived impressions, while buddhi determines their nature, categorizes them and welds them into concepts.Its function, then, is to bring about certainty and definitiveness in knowledge. Definitive apprehension might spur action. Thus it is buddhi which resolves to act and then guides the ensuing action. A fundamental categorization of percepts as also of ensuing actions concerns their moral import. The deftness with which buddhi does that is variable.
If it can exercise acute ethical discrimination, it is known as bibek buddhi (discriminative intellect). That can happen only if it has become God centred. On the contrary, if it remains self centred (aham buddhi), then it remains morally confounded and unable to discriminate.Bibek buddhi in gurbani, Guru`s utterance, has also been called sarbuddhi (the essential intellect), tat buddhi (the real intellect) , bimal or nirmal buddhi (unclouded, clear intellect), bal buddhi (powerful intellect), mati buddhi (the counselling intellect) and sudh buddhi (pure intellect).
Aham buddhi has also been called chapal buddhi (the unstable intellect), buddhi bikar (foul intellect), malin buddhi (turbid intellect), nibal buddhi (weak intellect), durmat buddhi (perverse intellect), and phanin buddhi (the deluding intellect). This moral bipolarity of the functioning of intellect stands out in relief in gurbani. In its decadent form, buddhi wastes itself in vain, egoistic pursuits : kaunu karam mera kari kari marai^for what reason does it die proclaiming mine ! mine ! ? (GG, 1159).
However, when through evolution it ascends up the ethical scale (buddhipragas), it flowers into bibek buddhi which is a divine attribute: tu samrathu tu sarab mai tu hai buddhi bibek jiu You are omnipotent, you are allpervasive, you are the discriminating intellect (GG, 761). However, if it begins to undergo the process of devolution (visarjan) down the moral scale, buddhi becomes delusional intellect (phanin buddhi).
Buddhi, also called akal (Arabic `aql) in gurbani, is considered to be an instrument for serving the Divine purpose and acquiring merit: akalisahibu seviai akalipaiai manu by wisdom is the Lord served; by intellect is honour attained (GG, 1245). By contrast, buddhi in its decadent form is not only infirm but also arrogant, which makes it despicable: Some are devoid of intellect, or sense, or comprehension And understand not a syllable. Such folk, saith Nanak, as fill themselves with pride, Without merit are asses pedigreed.
References :
1. Sher Singh, The Philosophy of Sikhism. Lahore, 1944
2. Avtar Singh, Ethics of the Sikhs. Patiala, 1970
3. Nripinder Singh, The Sikh Moral Tradition. Delhi, 1990
4. Jodh Singh, Gurmat Nirnaya. Lahore, 1932
Buddhi: Wisdom and Intellect in Sikhism
In Sikhism, Buddhi, a term derived from Sanskrit, refers to intellect, wisdom, or discernment. It represents an essential faculty of the human mind, crucial for understanding, decision-making, and spiritual growth. While intellect is often associated with reasoning and knowledge, Sikh philosophy places a deeper emphasis on cultivating spiritual wisdom to align one’s intellect with divine will (Hukam).
Buddhi in Sikh Teachings
The Guru Granth Sahib frequently highlights the importance of wisdom that goes beyond mere intellectual knowledge. Sikhism distinguishes between Durmat (bad intellect or ego-driven thinking) and Sudharat Buddhi (purified, virtuous intellect). A purified Buddhi is guided by the Naam (Name of God) and the Guru’s teachings, leading to spiritual awakening and moral clarity. In contrast, ego-driven intellect can lead to attachment (maya), arrogance, and disconnection from Waheguru (God).
Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism, emphasized that true intellect arises from humility and devotion to the divine. Wisdom is seen as a divine gift, granted to those who seek truth and practice virtues such as compassion, humility, and contentment.
The Role of Buddhi in Spiritual Growth
- Discerning Right from Wrong: Buddhi enables individuals to distinguish between ethical and unethical actions, guiding them on the path of righteousness.
- Overcoming Ego: By cultivating spiritual wisdom, one can transcend the ego (haumai), which clouds judgment and creates barriers to divine connection.
- Seeking Truth: Buddhi is a tool for understanding the deeper truths of existence, as revealed through the Guru’s teachings and meditation on the Naam.
- Harmonizing Mind and Spirit: A balanced intellect fosters harmony between worldly responsibilities and spiritual pursuits, enabling individuals to live meaningful and purposeful lives.
Buddhi and Humility
Sikhism teaches that wisdom must always be accompanied by humility. An intellect that is arrogant or self-serving becomes a barrier to spiritual progress. The Gurus emphasize surrendering one’s intellect to the Guru’s wisdom, allowing divine guidance to illuminate the mind. The daily Sikh prayer, Ardas, includes a plea for divine wisdom and humility, reflecting the interconnectedness of intellect and spirituality.
Modern Relevance
In today’s world, the concept of Buddhi in Sikhism offers valuable lessons. While modern society often prioritizes intellectual achievements and material success, Sikh teachings remind us that true wisdom lies in aligning the mind with higher values. Cultivating a discerning, virtuous intellect can help individuals navigate the complexities of life with integrity, compassion, and inner peace.
Conclusion
In Sikhism, Buddhi represents more than just intellectual capability; it signifies the wisdom to live a life of purpose, devotion, and service. By purifying the intellect and grounding it in spiritual teachings, one can overcome ego, embrace humility, and attain a deeper connection with Waheguru. This holistic approach to wisdom continues to guide Sikhs and others in their journey toward truth and fulfillment.
