Significance of Good intention
Good intention, as defined across various traditions, emphasizes the importance of positive motivation behind actions. In Buddhism, it signifies the motivation for virtuous acts to prevent negative ones. Arthashastra frames it as a king's openness to diplomacy, while Purana highlights sincerity in worship. Yoga and Vedanta view it as guiding thoughts and enhancing teachings, respectively. Additionally, Mahayana and Theravada stress the purity and beneficial nature of intentions, ensuring actions resonate with genuine goodwill. Historical references in India showcase how good intention underpins kindness and purity of motives.
Synonyms: Goodwill, Benevolence, Kindness, Generosity, Altruism
In Dutch: Goede bedoelingen
In Finnish: Hyvä tarkoitus
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 intention'
Good intention in Buddhism encompasses positive motivations behind actions, emphasizing genuine desire for benefit, virtuous practices, and the sincerity of offerings. It prioritizes wholesome intent over mere acts, ensuring actions align with Buddhist values.
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) The pure motivation behind acts of generosity, which matters more than the amount given.[1] (2) A positive motivation that accompanies the teaching of the Dharma, ensuring that it is a true act of generosity.[2] (3) The positive motivation (vishuddhacitta) behind offering gifts, especially to those engaged in meditation.[3] (4) A mindset or motive that ensures the offerings of perfumes and flowers are truly effective as roots of good; they must be offered with the right intention to count as meritorious.[4]
From: Akshayamatinirdesha [english]
(1) The sincere motivation to seek knowledge without ulterior motives of gain or honor.[5]
From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) The desire to do something beneficial, which in this case contrasts with the naive execution that leads to harm.[6]
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) The motivation behind an action, particularly in rendering homage, that signifies a wholesome purpose aligned with Buddhist principles.[7]
From: The Great Chariot
(1) The motive behind performing virtuous actions that helps to avoid engaging in bad actions.[8]
Hindu concept of 'Good intention'
In Hinduism, Good intention signifies positive motivations and virtuous mental states that guide actions, enhance teachings, purify the mind, and reflect sincerity in purpose, ultimately leading to beneficial outcomes and harmonious relationships.
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) A reference to a desire to do something beneficial or kind, which is depicted as a motivating factor for the actions of the characters.[9]
From: Padma Purana
(1) A term reflecting the purity of purpose behind actions, highlighting a sincere aim.[10]
From: Shiva Purana
(1) The underlying positive motivation behind Himacala's actions, particularly in worship and celebration.[11]
From: Kautilya Arthashastra
(1) A characteristic of a king who may be open to friendship and diplomatic efforts.[12] (2) The motive behind actions or proposals, indicating that a party genuinely seeks beneficial outcomes.[13]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) Positive mental states that lead to the purification of the mind, contrasting with evil intentions that contaminate it.[14]
From: Yoga-sutras (Ancient and Modern Interpretations)
(1) Positive and virtuous motivations that guide the actions and thoughts of an individual.[15]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad Bhashya Vartika
(1) A positive motivation behind the utterance of a verse, aimed at enhancing the teaching.[16]
The concept of Good intention in local and regional sources
Good intention signifies the farmer's genuine desire to invite Tuka to his field, embodying the purity and kindness behind his motives, highlighting a heartfelt connection and the importance of sincerity in interpersonal relationships.
From: Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints
(1) The farmer's sincere desire to invite Tuka to his field, reflecting the purity and kindness of his motives.[17]