Significance of Censure

Censure is defined across various texts with a focus on reprimand and disapproval. In the Purana, it refers to severe criticism of others' actions, while the Natyashastra highlights the distortion of perception through criticism of faults framed as qualities. The Dharmashastra connects censure to failure in performing duties. Theravada elaborates on formal disapproval directed at monks for inappropriate behaviors, including specific reprimands and expectations from superiors. Censure, therefore, serves as a means to uphold standards within different frameworks, emphasizing accountability and ethical conduct.

Synonyms: Rebuke, Reprimand, Condemnation, Criticism, Reproach, Admonition, Scorn, Reproof, Blame, Admonishment

In Dutch: Afkeuring; In Finnish: Moitittavaa; In Spanish: Censura; In German: Tadel

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Buddhist concept of 'Censure'

Buddhism Books

Censure in Buddhism involves formal disapproval of a Bhikkhu's actions, emphasizing the importance of conduct within the monastic community. It encompasses criticisms, reprimands, and rules governing behavior, reflecting accountability and ethical expectations among monks.

Significance in Theravada (major branch of Buddhism):
Theravada Books

(1) An official reprimand or expression of disapproval that a Bhikkhu should not initiate against another Bhikkhu during the Tajjaniya-kamma.[1] (2) Disapproval or criticism that leads to a formal legal question regarding a Bhikkhus' faults.[2] (3) The act of formally expressing disapproval or criticism towards another Bhikkhu, which is unacceptable behavior for a Bhikkhu after Ukkhepaniyakamma.[3]

(1) The reprimand given by the father Goose to his sons and Dingy, emphasizing the expectations of behavior based on their nature.[4]

(1) A formal reprimand or criticism by the Order, particularly regarding misconduct among monks.[5]

(1) Disapproval expressed towards actions that may reflect negatively on oneself or others, mentioned in the context of laying down rules.[6]

(1) A formal expression of disapproval or reprimand directed towards monks for behaviors deemed inappropriate, often using terms like assamanaka.[7]

Theravada is a major branch of Buddhism having the the Pali canon (tipitaka) as their canonical literature, which includes the vinaya-pitaka (monastic rules), the sutta-pitaka (Buddhist sermons) and the abhidhamma-pitaka (philosophy and psychology).

Hindu concept of 'Censure'

Hinduism Books

Censure in Hinduism encompasses severe criticism of others, distorting perceptions by highlighting faults as qualities, facing reprimand for not fulfilling duties, and represents disapproval or reprimanding actions within the community.

Significance in Purana and Itihasa (epic history):
Purana Books

(1) To express severe disapproval, particularly regarding Duryodhana's moral decisions and actions in the war.[8] (2) Severe criticism or disapproval, especially regarding the actions of others.[9]

The Purana refers to Sanskrit literature preserving ancient India’s vast cultural history, including historical legends, religious ceremonies, various arts and sciences. The eighteen mahapuranas total over 400,000 shlokas (metrical couplets) and date to at least several centuries BCE.

Significance in Dharmashastra (religious law):
Dharmashastra Books

(1) Criticism or disapproval that one may face for failing to perform prescribed duties.[10]

Dharmashastra contains the instructions (shastra) regarding religious conduct of livelihood (dharma), ceremonies, jurisprudence (study of law) and more. It is categorized as smriti, an important and authoritative selection of books dealing with the Hindu lifestyle.

Significance in Natyashastra (theatrics and dramaturgy):
Natyashastra Books

(1) The act of criticizing someone's faults while framing them as qualities, thus distorting perception.[11]

Natyashastra refers to both the ancient Indian tradition (shastra) of performing arts, (natya—theatrics, drama, dance, music), as well as the name of a Sanskrit work dealing with these subjects. It also teaches the rules for composing Dramatic plays (nataka), construction and performance of Theater, and Poetic works (kavya).