Significance of Good action
Good action in various philosophical and religious contexts underscores the significance of virtuous deeds that lead to positive outcomes and happiness. In Buddhism, it entails actions aligned with bodhicitta and moral conduct, contributing to spiritual progress and favorable karmic results. Jainism similarly emphasizes virtuous behavior that fosters positive karma and liberation. Across traditions, good actions are characterized by their beneficial effects on individuals and society, promoting well-being, moral integrity, and spiritual development, regardless of the framework through which they are interpreted.
Synonyms: Positive behavior, Virtuous deed, Constructive action, Virtuous act, Beneficial action, Kind gesture, Noble action, Righteous behavior
In Dutch: Goede actie; In Finnish: Hyvää toimintaa; In Spanish: Buena accion; In German: Gute Aktion; In Swedish: Bra action; In Malay: Tindakan yang baik; In French: Bonne action; In Portugese: Boa ação; In Italian: Buona azione; In Polish: Dobra akcja
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Good action'
In Buddhism, Good action signifies deeds devoid of remorse, rooted in strong will, and performed with positive intentions. It encompasses virtuous acts benefiting oneself and others, leading to favorable rebirth and spiritual progress.
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) These are taught to people, leading to rebirth in heaven, emphasizing the importance of ethical conduct and its positive consequences.[1] (2) Good actions, whether bodily, vocal, or mental, are associated with favorable rebirths in good destinies after death.[2] (3) Good action is an act performed by Nanda, and is associated with the reward, and also when offering a parasol.[3] (4) Refers to virtuous deeds that arise from positive intentions, which contribute to one's spiritual progress and favorable outcomes in life.[4] (5) Actions performed with virtue that result in positive outcomes, linked to the Bodhisattva's markings.[5]
From: Mahayana Mahaparinirvana Sutra
(1) The text states that good actions may lead to peace and bliss, but this is not necessarily always the case, implying a more nuanced understanding is needed.[6] (2) These are virtuous deeds that bring about positive outcomes and contribute to spiritual growth.[7] (3) Whatever the Tathagata performs is all to adjust and subjugate all beings, and whatever he obtains, seeks, gives or comprehends is all evil in nature.[8] (4) Positive deeds that lead to beneficial outcomes, emphasized in the teachings for improving moral character.[9] (5) Benevolent behaviors that contribute to spiritual development and the reduction of ignorance and defilements.[10]
From: Abhidharmakośa
(1) Good action is salutary; it corresponds to meritorious actions.[11]
From: Bodhisattvacharyavatara
(1) Virtuous deeds performed by beings, which contribute to the accumulation of merit and can trigger virtuous thoughts.[12]
From: Akshayamatinirdesha [english]
(1) Selfless deeds intended to benefit others, reflecting the altruistic nature of bodhisattvas' intention.[13]
From: Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva (Sutra of the Great Vow)
(1) This refers to deeds that lead to positive karmic results, and the text discusses how they can increase. The text states that the karmic results of good actions will increase daily for those who revere Kshitigarbha.[14]
From: Lotus Sutra (Saddharma-Pundarika)
(1) The "good action" that he did resulted in the accumulation of merit, allowing him to propitiate thousands of kotis of Buddhas, even though it was spotted.[15]
From: The Great Chariot
(1) Actions deemed positive or beneficial, especially those performed with an intention aligned with bodhicitta.[16] (2) Virtuous deeds that are meant to be pursued and rejoiced in.[17] (3) Positive behaviors that lead to happiness and assist in attaining higher realms of existence.[18] (4) Virtuous deeds or behaviors that are intended to lead to happiness, which are often neglected by those seeking happiness.[19] (5) A scripture that highlights the immeasurable merits attained through the act of prostration toward victorious beings.[20]
From: Hualin International Journal of Buddhist Studies
(1) If a Buddhist layperson can persistently practice the five good actions and then proceed to the ten, they will attain Enlightenment, according to the provided text.[21]
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) This refers to the actions that lead to a happy state of existence, such as a heavenly world, as contrasted with evil ways in the text.[22] (2) The performance of virtuous deeds that are encouraged to be done swiftly for both the mind's benefit and the community.[23] (3) A morally positive action that results in beneficial outcomes.[24] (4) An action that should not lead to remorse or regret; it is emphasized that good actions are those from which one does not repent.[25]
From: Abhidhamma in Daily Life (by Ashin Janakabhivamsa)
(1) These actions, such as making offerings or observing precepts, are influenced by the strong will, which is the most potent and responsible in determining destiny.[26]
From: Maha Buddhavamsa—The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) This refers to the 'Law of good action' and its result (kusala dhamma), which the Buddha started with in his teachings, as stated in the provided information.[27]
From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) The reason given by the serpent-king for attaining his fair halls, attributing it to these and his merits.[28]
Hindu concept of 'Good action'
In Hinduism, Good action encompasses virtuous deeds performed selflessly, promoting prosperity, moral integrity, and societal welfare. These actions yield beneficial outcomes, contribute to spiritual progress, and emphasize moral responsibility and adherence to prescribed duties.
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) These are guided by the morals established by the wise and the virtues inculcated by the holy scriptures, and are not spontaneous.[29] (2) The term emphasizes that positive actions can prevent decline, suggesting that one's behavior determines their future, similar to the concept of reaping what is sown.[30] (3) Positive and virtuous deeds that float on the surface of the ocean-like world, disguised beneath which lies a deeper danger.[31] (4) A positive deed or behavior that can correct or offset a past misdeed, emphasizing the power of personal choice over destiny.[32]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) The outcome of this is described as positive and pure, leading to favorable consequences.[33] (2) Deeds that promote virtue, righteousness, and positive impacts on society and oneself.[34]
From: Anugita (English translation)
(1) The sages asked how one should perform this and how one is released from sin.[35] (2) Positively oriented actions performed with a pure mind that yield beneficial outcomes.[36]
From: Harivamsha Purana
(1) The God of, may that god of good actions lead me to-day to blessings and happiness.[37] (2) Moral deeds and righteous conduct, as desired by Galava, Kundarika, and Brahmadatta.[38]
From: Gautami Mahatmya
(1) Benevolent deeds that individuals practice primarily out of fear of Yama, aiming to adhere to duties and righteousness.[39]
From: Bhagavadgita
(1) Actions that are prescribed, devoid of personal attachment and performed without desire for results.[40]
From: Bhagavad-gita-rahasya (or Karma-yoga Shastra)
(1) Actions that are favorable and promote spiritual progress or well-being.[41]
From: Brahma Sutras (Shankara Bhashya)
(1) "Good actions" are mentioned in the Katha text, which states that both entities enjoy the results of their good actions, highlighting the importance of righteous deeds.[42] (2) The virtuous deeds that supposedly yield positive results for individuals, especially regarding their fate in heaven.[43]
From: Vivekachudamani
(1) Positive deeds or behaviors that an individual might perceive themselves as doing while dreaming.[44]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad Bhashya Vartika
(1) A virtuous deed that leads to positive outcomes and contributes to the moral improvement of an individual.[45]
From: Chandogya Upanishad (english Translation)
(1) Positive deeds that, like bad actions, do not have any effect on the Self, which remains constant and pure.[46]
From: Brahma Sutras (Shankaracharya)
(1) This is what the text mentions in the context of the highest Brahman, where it says that Brahman does not increase by it.[47]
From: Brahma Sutras (Ramanuja)
(1) Those who perform good actions are recognized by the Lord as those who obey his commands, and he blesses them with piety, riches, worldly pleasures, and final release, according to the text.[48]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) An implied moral or ethical consideration of the actions taken, contrasting the burning of the Kazi's house with potential justifications.[49]
From: Prem Sagar (English translation)
(1) Virtuous deeds that individuals are expected to perform, which Krishna uses to illustrate moral conduct.[50]
From: Yoga-sutras (with Vyasa and Vachaspati Mishra)
(1) Good actions are virtuous deeds that yield positive effects, contributing to well-being and happiness.[51] (2) Actions that are complemented by intense energy, devotion, and purificatory efforts leading to positive outcomes.[52]
From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)
(1) These refer to the acts of kindness Baîti performed for Anupu, which Anupu failed to remember when he believed the false accusation.[53] (2) Positive deeds that contribute to an individual's fortune or reputation, emphasizing the moral implications of one's conduct.[54]
From: History of Indian Medicine (and Ayurveda)
(1) Actions that lead to happiness in this life and reward in the afterlife, exemplified by religious terms like holiness.[55]
From: Bharadvaja-srauta-sutra
(1) An intention stated in connection with the vow observed during the rituals aimed at prosperity.[56]
From: Shukra Niti by Shukracharya
(1) An act perceived positively, which might be disguised as negative by cunning individuals.[57]
From: Shakti and Shakta
(1) In the higher inner and mental Puja, the Sadhaka lays at the feet of the Devata the flower of good action, instead of material flowers offered with the hands.[58]
Jain concept of 'Good action'
Good action in Jainism encompasses moral behavior that is aligned with virtuous deeds, leads to positive karma and liberation, and is exemplified by the potter's restraint, culminating in personal salvation and prosperity.
From: Sutrakritanga (English translation)
(1) Behaviors that are considered virtuous and lead to positive karmic results and ultimate liberation.[59] (2) A term for moral behavior, though a monk should not affirm or deny such labels.[60]
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) Describes the virtuous behavior of the potter in restraining the village-people, which ultimately led to his salvation.[61]
From: Uttaradhyayana Sutra
(1) These are the deeds that are rewarded with great power and prosperity, according to the perspective of the text.[62]
The concept of Good action in local and regional sources
Good action is characterized by moral conduct and positive intent, essential for personal respect and moral evaluation. It enhances one's character, influences others positively, and signifies the true nature of the soul, leading to higher existence.
From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda
(1) Good actions are those actions and thoughts that manifest the soul's powers, making them come out, and are considered moral, as opposed to evil actions.[63] (2) The text implies that a good action is something that opens one up to good waves, and such actions also become intensified; this is beneficial for the person performing it and for others.[64] (3) This is what must make a man a higher being, and the whole basis of the theory is this: If a man's actions be good, he must be a higher being, and vice versa.[65] (4) This is an action considered to be morally right or beneficial, yet it can also be a source of desire for recognition.[66] (5) Every action and every thought that helps the Jiva to expand, to manifest its real nature, is considered good, as presented in the text.[67]
From: Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints
(1) Virtuous deeds that are performed with positive intent and consequences.[68]
The concept of Good action in scientific sources
Good action, in regional sources, signifies the genesis of karma. It posits that virtuous deeds lead to goodness, while malevolent actions result in badness, establishing a foundational principle of karmic doctrine.
From: Religious Inquiries (Journal)
(1) In Revival, al-Ghazali defines this as striving during this life to purify our souls so that we may attain salvation in the next life.[69] (2) Virtue ethics can contain a host of questions, including how can virtues motivate good actions, what are virtues, and how do virtues relate to norms.[70] (3) Good actions make the heart pure and light, while bad actions make it dark.[71] (4) The text indicates that good actions leave in the actor a feeling of happiness and generate an instinctive inclination to approval in those witnessing their performance.[72]
From: Religions Journal (MDPI)
(1) The text presents a scenario where humans consistently perform morally right actions, which EG would counteract to maintain a balance conducive to suffering.[73] (2) Is encouraged by the "Classics Reading" curriculum and is interpreted as activity by the children that contributes to the social good.[74] (3) One becomes good by good action, bad by bad action, which marked the beginning of karma as a doctrine.[75]
From: International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health (MDPI)
(1) Good action to participate in this activity is the thought of participants, and perceived value is one of the constructs being measured.[76]
From: Sustainability Journal (MDPI)
(1) Are led to by positive thinking, resulting in positive results and motivation to solve different problems, impacting employee well-being and performance.[77]
Classical concept of 'Good action'
From: The Nicomachean Ethics of Aristotle
(1) Good action itself is its end, distinguishing it from making, which has an end outside itself, meaning that the value of an action lies in the action itself, not in some external result, when discussing practical wisdom.[78] (2) Good action is described as an end and something that desire aims at, implying that good action serves as a goal or purpose that motivates desire.[79] (3) The text implies that performing good actions is a natural part of being a good person. If one does not perform good actions, one would not be a good person.[80] (4) Happiness is practically defined as a sort of good life and good action, emphasizing the importance of virtuous behavior in achieving a state of well-being.[81]
From: The Literature of the Ancient Egyptians
(1) The text states that "Ye were satisfactory to my heart, as were your good actions, and ye performed my decrees and my words", which indicates the ruler was pleased with the people's behavior.[82]