Significance of Good friend
The concept of a Good friend varies across different traditions, encompassing individuals who inspire virtuous actions or provide support. In Buddhism, a Good friend is someone who guides others away from evil, while in Mahayana, they inspire and assist bodhisattvas on their spiritual journeys. Hinduism uses the term in a sacrificial context inviting benevolent presence, whereas the Arthashastra emphasizes supportive companions for rulers. Overall, a Good friend contributes positively to one’s moral and spiritual growth, offering guidance, respect, and mutual encouragement.
Synonyms: Close friend, Best friend, Trusted companion, Intimate friend, Dear friend, Trusted ally
In Dutch: Goede vriend; In Finnish: Hyvä ystävä; In Spanish: Buen amigo
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 friend'
In Buddhism, a "Good friend" signifies supportive companions who share virtues, guide spiritual growth, and positively influence one's life, emphasizing the importance of camaraderie, respect, and mutual inspiration on the path to enlightenment.
From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) A term used by the Bodhisatta to address the foolish sprite and warn him about his dangerous plan.[1] (2) Companions who share values of virtue, wisdom, and learning, and who positively influence one's life.[2] (3) Viraka's address to Savitthaka, expressing concern for his well-being as he warns him against self-destruction.[3] (4) A term used by the king as a token of respect towards the carpenters, emphasizing camaraderie and mutual respect.[4] (5) Supportive and beneficial companions who contribute positively to one's life and spiritual journey.[5]
From: Maha Buddhavamsa—The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) Others who support and encourage one on the path to spiritual growth, viewed as essential for developing mental liberation.[6] (2) Associates whose companionship benefits one's spiritual growth and wellbeing.[7] (3) Companions who contribute positively to one’s moral and spiritual journey.[8] (4) Individuals who possess virtuous qualities and support the Bodhisatta in their journey towards Buddhahood.[9]
From: Vinaya (2): The Mahavagga
(1) A term of endearment used by the lay-disciple to address the Bhikkhu, highlighting the supportive and respectful relationship among practitioners.[10] (2) A polite address used among the Bhikkhus when discussing matters of agreement.[11]
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) Individuals who provide support, guidance, and constructive feedback, crucial for personal growth.[12] (2) A person who provides wise counsel and supports others in making better choices, often through reproach and warning against bad actions.[13]
From: Visuddhimagga (the pah of purification)
(1) A person who provides a meditation subject and serves as a guide in the development of concentration.[14] (2) A person who possesses special qualities, is revered and dearly loved, and is wholly solicitous of welfare and progress, essential for guiding others in meditation.[15]
From: Cetasikas
(1) A good friend rejoices in another's good fortune and refrains from jealousy or ill-will.[16]
From: A Discourse on Paticcasamuppada
(1) Individuals who positively influence one's moral conduct and contribute to the development of wholesome consciousness.[17]
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) Associates that encourage virtuous behavior and contribute positively to one's karmic outcome.[18] (2) Companions who inspire and assist a bodhisattva in their spiritual journey towards omniscience.[19] (3) The kalyanamitra, representing the supportive figure that helps individuals on their path to peace and enlightenment.[20] (4) A term used in the context to describe generosity as a supportive and loyal companion.[21]
From: Mahayana Mahaparinirvana Sutra
(1) A supportive individual who helps a person navigate their emotions such as greed, anger, and ignorance through specific teachings.[22] (2) An associate or mentor who supports, inspires, and helps practitioners on their spiritual journey.[23]
From: Buddhacarita
(1) A rarity when facing suffering; the concept emphasizes the loneliness that often accompanies the pursuit of spiritual truths.[24] (2) A supportive companion of Anathapindada, indicated by his host named Shula.[25]
From: The Perfection Of Wisdom In Eight Thousand Lines
(1) Those who have perfections and are capable of instructing individuals in advanced stages towards realizing their Buddha-enlightenment.[26] (2) Spiritual teachers who impart the perfection of wisdom and support the learning of the bodhisattva.[27]
From: Lotus Sutra
(1) Individuals who inspire others on the path to enlightenment through their positive qualities.[28]
From: Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva Purvapranidhana Sutra
(1) Individuals who guide and inspire others to engage in positive deeds, fostering virtuous habits.[29]
From: Apadana commentary (Atthakatha)
(1) Individuals whose virtuous words and actions inspire and guide others away from evil actions.[30]
Hindu concept of 'Good friend'
In Hinduism, a "Good friend" represents loyal companions, like the Yadavas, who provide psychological support, foster harmonious relationships, and contribute positively to one's life, emphasizing trustworthiness and beneficial influence.
From: Garuda Purana
(1) Trustworthy and supportive individuals who contribute positively to one’s life.[31] (2) Trustworthy and supportive companions that contribute to a person's overall well-being.[32]
From: Skanda Purana
(1) The term used to describe the relationship between the washerman’s daughter and a girl from the community of fishermen.[33]
From: Shukra Niti by Shukracharya
(1) Companions who provide positive influence and support in one's life.[34] (2) Good friends are those individuals whose presence and advice support the ruler in maintaining a harmonious kingdom.[35]
From: Bharadvaja-srauta-sutra
(1) A term used in the formula recited by the sacrificer, expressing a wish for benevolence and companionship.[36]
From: Satapatha-brahmana
(1) A phrase invoked to invite King Soma as a benevolent and beneficial presence, fostering positive relationships in the context of the sacrificial ritual.[37]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) A reference to the Yadavas who are characterized as supportive and loyal companions of Shri Krishna.[38]
From: Charaka Samhita (English translation)
(1) Individuals whose presence during drinking is uplifting and psychologically beneficial.[39]
From: Annadatri-carita (study)
(1) Karna, who stands by Duryodhana and advocates for a fair viewpoint regarding Vancishvara's actions in the story.[40]
The concept of Good friend in local and regional sources
The keyphrase "Good friend" emphasizes supportive, lasting relationships marked by mutual respect, as seen in Raibhya and Bharadwaja's bond, and signifies a desired harmony between figures like the Raja and the Tiger.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) Describes the friendship and mutual respect shared between Lawrence and Huxley despite their differences.[41] (2) Raibhya and Bharadwaja shared a strong bond of friendship, where Raibhya was a renowned scholar and Bharadwaja an ascetic.[42] (3) Raibhya and Bharadwaja shared a strong bond of friendship, characterized by mutual respect and admiration.[43] (4) Those individuals who can be counted on for support and companionship, forming solid and lasting relationships.[44]
From: Folklore of the Santal Parganas
(1) A term representing the desired friendship and harmony between the Raja and the Tiger after their initial confrontation.[45]