The Linguistic Characteristics of Perception Verbs in Conveying Buddhist Teachings

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the linguistic characteristics of perception verbs used in conveying Buddhist teachings by using Lakoff and Johnson's (1980) conceptual metaphor theory and Fillmore's (1982) frame semantics as the theoretical foundation, this study examines the language properties of perception verbs employed in Buddhist teachings. Concrete, corporeal experiences conveyed metaphorically by perception verbs enable the understanding of abstract spiritual notions through conceptual metaphors. Frame semantics highlights how the cultural background and contextual backdrop surrounding Buddhist speech inform the rich semantic meaning of these verbs. Utilizing a qualitative methodology, the study applies content analysis and NVivo 14 software to examine a corpus of 15 Buddhist scriptures, sermons, and teachings. In order to shed light on how perception verb usage contributes to the understanding of complex Buddhist concepts, the goals are to reveal the semantic frames and metaphorical mappings connected to them. The research also examines how culture may have influenced the understanding of these verbs in this religious context. The research, through the integration of theoretical frameworks and meticulous qualitative techniques, provides valuable perspectives on the relationship between language, embodied cognition, and spiritual comprehension as expressed by perception verbs in Buddhist teachings.