Significance of Embarrassment
In Vaishnavism, embarrassment is understood as a multifaceted feeling. It includes the Lord's lack of public approval of Lakshmi's actions due to societal norms, the realization of the insignificance of one's past desires when compared to the glory of Vaikuntha, and the self-consciousness and awkwardness that arises from recognizing one’s own faults. Thus, embarrassment in this context reflects both social perceptions and personal introspection within spiritual life.
Synonyms: Shame, Humiliation, Discomfort, Distress, Confusion, Mortification, Self-consciousness., Self-consciousness
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Embarrassment'
In Hinduism, embarrassment encompasses self-consciousness about one's faults, societal disapproval of actions like Lakshmi's, and the realization of the insignificance of earthly desires compared to the divine glory of Vaikuntha.
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) The feeling that arises within an individual when recognizing the insignificance of their previous desires and experiences compared to the glory of Vaikuntha.[1] (2) The feeling of self-consciousness and awkwardness experienced when realizing one’s faults.[2]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) The feeling that led to the Lord not publicly approving of Lakshmi’s actions, influenced by societal expectations.[3]
The concept of Embarrassment in local and regional sources
Embarrassment in the text underscores the Hettiya's wife's anxiety about societal perceptions, specifically her fear of being labeled as the blind man's wife while she assists him, reflecting concerns about identity and social judgment.
From: Village Folk-tales of Ceylon (Sri Lanka), vol. 1-3
(1) The concern of the Hettiya's wife about being perceived as the blind man's wife while helping him.[4]