Significance of Good characters
Good character is a fundamental concept defined across various texts, including Arthashastra, Vaishnavism, Purana, Kavya, Vedanta, Dharmashastra, Theravada, and Kamashastra. It encompasses moral integrity, ethical behavior, and virtuous traits essential for leadership, representation, and social acceptance. Good character is regarded as vital for effective governance, fulfilling roles such as ambassadors, and maintaining stability within communities. It is celebrated in figures from spiritual traditions and emphasizes the importance of personal qualities in relationships, societal roles, and spiritual growth.
Synonyms: Virtue, Morality, Ethics, Honesty, Righteousness, Virtuous, Moral, Honorable, Righteous, Trustworthy, Respectable
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 characters'
Good character in Buddhism encompasses moral qualities stemming from virtuous actions, resulting in social respect and personal satisfaction. It is particularly aspired to by the Sakyans, reflecting a commitment to ethical living and goodness.
From: Vinaya Pitaka (3): Khandhaka
(1) A quality attributed to the Sakyans that the warriors aspire to embody in their change of life towards doing what is good.[1]
From: A Discourse on Paticcasamuppada
(1) A moral quality that arises from virtuous actions, leading to social admiration and personal contentment, regardless of the truth of kamma or afterlife.[2]
Hindu concept of 'Good characters'
Good character in Hinduism encompasses moral and ethical qualities crucial for societal acceptance, effective leadership, and personal integrity. It reflects virtues in individuals, particularly in marriage, showcasing the importance of moral values across various relationships and roles.
From: The Padma Purana
(1) The state of possessing moral integrity, leading to positive deeds and a virtuous life.[3] (2) A quality attributed to Bibhishana, who was dedicated to righteousness and the divine.[4] (3) The ethical quality of an individual that leads to beneficial actions and facilitates moral decisions and spiritual growth.[5] (4) Refers to moral integrity and virtues, especially in relation to the actions of women in the story.[6] (5) A trait attributed to Narada, representing his moral integrity and devotion.[7]
From: The Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) An essential quality in those eligible to receive the teachings of Brahma Vidya.[8] (2) A trait attributed to Muni Parashara, which contrasts with his actions towards Matsyagandha.[9] (3) An attribute ascribed to Sukanya, which ultimately leads to her father’s decision to give her in marriage.[10]
From: The Bhagavata Purana
(1) A fundamental quality expected of individuals engaging in Brahmacarya, denoting moral integrity and ethical behavior.[11] (2) One of the qualities possessed by Puranjana's daughters.[12]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) The essential trait required of a person, a sacrifice, and Soma for their collective success.[13]
From: The Brahmanda Purana
(1) Moral integrity and ethical behavior exemplified by sages and deities within the text.[14]
From: The Garuda Purana
(1) The admirable reputation and virtuous traits that are a decoration and distinction for any individual.[15]
From: Harivamsha Purana
(1) A trait of Prithu, indicating moral integrity and virtuous behavior.[16]
From: The Matsya Purana (critical study)
(1) A moral foundation that candidates for various state positions are expected to possess.[17]
From: The Skanda Purana
(1) Describes the moral integrity and virtue expected of individuals, particularly Brahmanas, in the context of spiritual affairs.[18]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) The quality of being virtuous and trustworthy, especially of the depositor.[19] (2) A quality attributed to individuals, particularly in the context of the term 'upasampanna'.[20] (3) A quality required for a teacher to be considered appropriate for a pupil's life-long residence, reflecting moral integrity and nobility.[21] (4) The moral quality and integrity demonstrated by an individual.[22] (5) Good character in the eldest brother leads to positive behavior among his younger brothers.[23]
From: Vasistha Dharmasutra
(1) A prevalent trait of individuals deemed reliable or trustworthy in testifying.[24]
From: Gobhila-grihya-sutra
(1) Traits signifying moral integrity and respectability, essential for those honoring rituals.[25]
From: Gautama Dharmasutra
(1) A moral standing that must be demonstrated by individuals for their maintenance by the king.[26]
From: Apastamba Grihya-sutra
(1) A trait valued in a bride that reflects moral integrity and virtues.[27]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) An attribute of Radha that contributes to her pride, indicating a strong moral nature.[28] (2) Describes an admirable quality that reflects moral integrity and ethical behavior.[29] (3) Describes an individual with positive moral attributes.[30] (4) Refers to moral excellence or virtues that the character lacks.[31]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) A description of the narrator's virtuous nature, which contributed to being loved by the king.[32]
From: Chaitanya Mangala
(1) The positive traits attributed to Lord Vishvambhara that made him an ideal husband for Sanatana Pandita's daughter.[33]
From: Kautilya Arthashastra
(1) The qualities that make a king suitable for leading and implementing policy effectively.[34] (2) The qualities of being righteous and virtuous, which are respected by the neighbouring king who accepts visitors of such nature.[35] (3) A quality desirable in heirs or leaders that is essential for maintaining stability and preventing internal conflict.[36]
From: Shukra Niti by Shukracharya
(1) The foundation for a prosperous and respectful existence.[37]
From: Hitopadesha (English translation)
(1) A trait that is deemed necessary for someone to serve as an ambassador or representative.[38]
From: Chandogya Upanishad (english Translation)
(1) Represents moral integrity and ethical behavior, which contributes to satisfaction and pleasure.[39] (2) The moral and ethical qualities that contribute to an individual's overall radiance and satisfaction in life.[40] (3) Refers to possessing virtues and moral integrity that contribute to the radiance of Brahman.[41]
From: Harshacharita (socio-cultural Study)
(1) Traits assumed by a person through education that contribute positively to society.[42]
From: Malatimadhava (study)
(1) A crucial attribute for a bridegroom, involving moral integrity and ethical behavior.[43]
From: Kamashastra Discourse (Life in Ancient India)
(1) An essential quality of a woman that is considered favorable for marriage, indicating moral integrity.[44]