Significance of Good son
The term Good son has significant connotations across various traditions such as Tibetan Buddhism, Vaishnavism, Puranas, Jyotisha, Vedanta, and Dharmashastra. It refers to sons who embody virtuous behavior, respect for parents, and fulfill moral duties. In Vaishnavism, it can result from religious observances, while in Puranas, it describes ideal offspring who bring honor and pride to their families. This concept emphasizes the importance of righteousness, family unity, and positive character traits in offspring, celebrating the role of sons in spiritual and familial contexts.
Synonyms: Well-behaved son, Obedient son, Kind son, Dutiful son, Devoted son
In Dutch: Goede zoon; In Finnish: Hyvä poika
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 son'
In Buddhism, "Good son" signifies an individual son distinguished for his virtuous qualities amidst multiple siblings, symbolizing the ideal of moral integrity and ethical behavior expected within familial relationships.
From: Tattvasangraha [with commentary]
(1) Indicates the singular son who is characterized as good in the context of having multiple sons.[1]
Hindu concept of 'Good son'
In Hinduism, a "Good son" embodies virtues such as truthfulness, knowledge, and devotion, fulfilling familial duties, honoring parents, and contributing to their happiness while ensuring spiritual well-being through righteous actions and rituals.
From: Padma Purana
(1) Refers to Nahusha, characterized as virtuous, handsome, and resembling a god.[2] (2) A term used by Kunjala to refer to his child, indicating affection and support.[3] (3) Children who are well-behaved, virtuous, and contribute positively to the family and society.[4] (4) A term representing the ideal offspring, who brings honor and prosperity to the family, reflective of values in the narrative.[5] (5) Refers to the sons of King Bhishmaka, particularly Rukma.[6]
From: Skanda Purana
(1) Refers to children who embody positive traits, representing an excellent form of birth.[7] (2) A son who is virtuous and beneficial to the family lineage, associated with the blessings from the Putrada Tirtha.[8] (3) A son who is splendid and capable of redeeming his lineage or family.[9] (4) The desire for progeny that a woman could achieve by worshipping Goddess Durga.[10] (5) Seven sons identified as beneficial for families, capable of saving ancestors from hell, including Aurasa, Pratipanna, and others.[11]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) A desired offspring that Agastya's ancestors wished for in order to be liberated from their plight.[12] (2) Refers to sons who honor their parents' commands and act in accordance with moral virtues.[13] (3) Good sons are the offspring who conduct themselves honorably and respectably towards their parents, fulfilling their moral obligations.[14]
From: Shiva Purana
(1) The affectionate term used by Parvati to refer to her son Ganesha, emphasizing his virtuous nature.[15] (2) The sons of Parvati and Shiva viewed positively by their parents.[16]
From: Markandeya Purana (Study)
(1) A good son acts as a protector of his father and brings happiness to the family.[17]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) The desired offspring who brings fortune and happiness to the family.[18]
From: Gautami Mahatmya
(1) The admirable offspring of Jabala, reflecting positive character and virtue.[19]
From: Brahmanda Purana
(1) Offspring who perform offerings to redeem their ancestors, ensuring their spiritual well-being.[20]
From: Brahma Purana
(1) Individuals who worship their parents, suggesting that failure to do so renders their life futile.[21]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki
(1) Idealizes the character of a son who upholds family honor and moral obligations.[22]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) A desirable outcome achieved through the prescribed acts of bathing and giving, suggesting that one who performs these acts is blessed with a good son.[23] (2) The result of King Mahijit's adherence to the ekadashi-vratam, leading to the birth of a fortunate child.[24]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) Shri Kuntidevi's sons who are depicted as virtuous and beloved, adding complexity to her affections.[25]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) Sons who are virtuous and contribute to the purification of their family.[26]
From: Hiranyakesi-grihya-sutra
(1) A desirable outcome of familial relationships, emphasizing the virtues and values expected from a son.[27]
From: Katha Upanishad with Shankara’s Commentary
(1) A role expected to ward off undesirable consequences for the father by taking actions to perfect the sacrifice.[28]
From: Brihat Samhita
(1) A positive outcome linked to pimples appearing in a man's genital organs.[29]