Significance of Harsh speech
Harsh speech, as defined in various Eastern philosophies, refers to aggressive, unkind, or severe communication. In Buddhism, it is communication advised against. Jainism attributes harshness to emotional transformations in figures like Kaikasi and Rukmin. Vaishnavism and Purana warn against cruel words that cause emotional distress, such as those spoken by Ravana and Rama. Dharmashastra discusses harsh speech as a negative trait to be avoided. Mahayana emphasizes its divisive nature, while Theravada suggests mindfulness can mitigate such tendencies.
Synonyms: Cutting words, Abuse, Criticism, Scorn, Derision, Reprimand
In Dutch: Harde taal
In Finnish: Kovaa puhetta
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Harsh speech'
Harsh speech in Buddhism signifies unkind or abusive communication stemming from negative mind states. It fosters conflict and suffering, but can be transformed through mindfulness and cultivating non-aversion.
From: The Great Chariot
(1) Communication that is aggressive or unkind, which is advised against.[3]
From: Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva Purvapranidhana Sutra
(1) A type of divisive and hurtful communication that can lead to conflict and suffering among beings.[4]
Hindu concept of 'Harsh speech'
Harsh speech in Hinduism signifies unkind communication, exemplified by negative interactions between characters like Shatrughna, Ravana, and Rama. It emphasizes avoidance of severe words that inflict emotional distress, reflecting on the impact of verbal expressions.
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) Another interpretation of 'vagdushta,' indicating someone who speaks without gentleness or politeness.[5] (2) A defect in the nature of the wife that does not justify abandonment by the husband.[6] (3) Communication that is severe or unkind, contributing to a negative form of verbal action.[7] (4) One should avoid harsh speech.[8]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki
(1) The severe and cruel words spoken by Ravana, the King of the Titans, which caused distress to Sita.[9] (2) The emotionally charged and cruel words spoken by Shatrughna towards his mother, Queen Kaikeyi.[10] (3) An expression of Rama's painful and stern words directed at Sita, which caused her emotional distress.[11]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) Refers to the critical words Bhishma directed at Karna, questioning his ability to fulfill his boastful vows.[12]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) It refers to any form of communication that is severe, abrasive, or lacking in kindness and should be avoided.[13]
From: Brihat Samhita
(1) Unpleasant and severe language that an unloving wife might display towards her husband.[14]
Jain concept of 'Harsh speech'
In Jainism, Harsh speech encompasses angry remarks and contempt, as illustrated by Kapila’s scorn towards Rama and Lakshmana, Rukmin’s derision of Krishna's intentions, and Kaikasi's transformation in communication influenced by her embryo's power.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) Dashagriva expresses anger through impactful words after the interruption of his puja by water.[15] (2) Rukmin's derisive response to Krishna's proposal, expressing disbelief at a cowherd seeking his sister.[16] (3) The angry remarks made by Kapila against Rama and Lakshmana for being impure.[17] (4) Kaikasi's change in communication, becoming very harsh and contemptuous, attributed to the power of her embryo.[18]