Significance of Chastity
Chastity is a significant concept across various traditions, reflecting moral purity and fidelity in relationships. In Jainism, it symbolizes purity and dedication, while Vaishnavism links it to the virtue preserved for divine pleasure. The Purana views chastity as essential for marital devotion and spiritual excellence, with historical figures embodying this quality. Dharmashastra emphasizes refraining from extramarital relations, leading to spiritual benefits. In Theravada, it is vital for monks and symbolizes a commitment to celibacy and spiritual growth, highlighting its importance in community conduct.
Synonyms: Celibacy, Purity, Virtue, Fidelity, Continence, Modesty, Abstinence
In Dutch: Kuisheid; In Finnish: Siveys; In Spanish: Castidad
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Chastity'
Chastity in Buddhism encompasses sexual purity, a monk's vow of celibacy for spiritual growth, and the ethical conduct of Bhikkhus, who navigate challenges to maintain their commitment to this essential aspect of their practice.
From: Vinaya (2): The Mahavagga
(1) A key aspect of the Bhikkhus' conduct, wherein they face potential dangers that may compromise their vow of celibacy.[1]
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) A commitment made by monks to abstain from sexual relations as part of their practice, reflecting the ideals of purity and dedication to spiritual growth.[2]
From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) The state of being sexually pure, which the prince loses upon being tempted by the maiden.[3]
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) The practice of refraining from sexual intercourse, emphasized within the conduct of brahmacarya.[4]
Hindu concept of 'Chastity'
Chastity in Hinduism embodies spiritual rewards and moral integrity, exemplifying purity and sexual fidelity. It is a source of strength for women, highlighted by characters like Sita and promotes devotion, embodying key virtues highly esteemed within the tradition.
From: Ramayana of Valmiki
(1) The quality of being pure and virtuous, particularly in relation to sexual fidelity, highlighted as Sita's defense against Ravana.[5]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) A quality attributed to the Bhargava women, which they used as a source of strength and virtue against their oppressors.[6]
From: Shiva Purana
(1) A key virtue valued highly by Ganga, representing purity and spiritual excellence.[7]
From: Skanda Purana
(1) The state of remaining pure and faithful, particularly in the context of marital devotion.[8]
From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)
(1) Described as the beauty of a woman, equating moral integrity with physical attractiveness.[9] (2) A critical theme represented through the interactions between various characters, particularly the struggles to maintain honor and integrity.[10]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) The state of refraining from extramarital or sexual intercourse, emphasized as an important moral guideline.[11] (2) A vow or practice that, when maintained by a woman, leads to spiritual rewards such as obtaining heaven after death.[12]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) The virtue that Krishna instructed the gopis to preserve for the pleasure of Lord Balarama.[13]
Jain concept of 'Chastity'
In Jainism, Chastity symbolizes purity and dedication, especially in the context of Sulasa, and represents a moral standard emphasizing the importance of maintaining purity in relationships and sexual conduct.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) An aspect of dharma related to sexual abstinence and fidelity.[14] (2) A quality valued in Sulasa, symbolizing her purity and dedication, which remains central to her identity.[15] (3) A moral standard referring to the practice of remaining pure in relationships and sexual conduct.[16]
From: Tattvartha Sutra (with commentary)
(1) Defined as brahma, it leads to enhancement of virtues like non-injury.[17]
From: Sutrakritanga (English translation)
(1) The practice of refraining from sexual activity, often associated with religious or monastic vows.[18]
The concept of Chastity in local and regional sources
Chastity embodies purity and restraint, pivotal virtues in both Milton's and Valmiki's narratives, emphasizing moral integrity and self-control as essential elements in their storytelling.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) A virtue representing purity and restraint, which is central to both Milton's and Valmiki's narratives.[19]