Significance of Evidence

Evidence is defined across various disciplines as information or material that supports or contradicts claims. In the context of Arthashastra, Vaishnavism, and Dharmashastra, evidence refers to information presented in court to validate claims during legal proceedings. It may include documents, materials, and testimonies used to establish facts. In historical India, evidence denotes what is presented by both parties in court. Additionally, in science, evidence is integral to crime investigations, highlighting its broad significance across different fields.1
gallery thumb

Synonyms: Proof, Testimony, Confirmation, Documentation, Validation, Corroboration

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

Hindu concept of 'Evidence'

Hinduism Books

In Hinduism, "Evidence" encompasses various forms of information and documentation used to support claims, establish facts in legal proceedings, and substantiate beliefs, highlighting its importance in both spiritual and judicial contexts.

Significance in Vaishnavism (Vaishava dharma):
Vaishnavism Books

From: Chaitanya Bhagavata

(1) Information or proof that supports a claim or belief.[1] (2) Information or documentation that serves to support claims or actions.[2]

Vaishnava or vaishnavism (vaishnavism) represents a tradition of Hinduism worshipping Vishnu as the supreme Lord. Similar to the Shaktism and Shaivism traditions, Vaishnavism also developed as an individual movement, famous for its exposition of the dashavatara (‘ten avatars of Vishnu’).

Significance in Arthashastra (politics and welfare):
Arthashastra Books

From: Shukra Niti by Shukracharya

(1) The information or material presented in court to support or refute claims made by the parties involved in a legal dispute.[3]

Arthashastra literature concerns itself with the teachings (shastra) of economic prosperity (artha) statecraft, politics and military tactics. The term arthashastra refers to both the name of these scientific teachings, as well as the name of a Sanskrit work included in such literature. This book was written (3rd century BCE) by by Kautilya, who flourished in the 4th century BCE.

The concept of Evidence in local and regional sources

History Books

Evidence is crucial in court as it encompasses the information provided by both the petitioner and respondent, reinforcing their respective claims and aiding the judge or jury in making informed decisions based on presented facts.

Significance in India history and geography:

From: Triveni Journal

(1) The information presented in court by both the petitioner and respondent to support their claims.[4]

The concept of Evidence in scientific sources

Science Books

Evidence, in crime investigations, serves as crucial information or material that supports the establishment of facts, assisting law enforcement in solving cases and ensuring justice through the substantiation of claims or events.

Significance in Scientific journals, articles, etc.:

From: The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences

(1) Evidence can be used in crime investigations.[5]

This section includes scientific research in the field of healthcare, often involving traditional medicine systems such as Ayurveda, Unani, Siddha and Holistic health. It includes papers from scientific journals classified as either original, clinical or experimental research, review articles or case reports.

Plural form: Evidences.